Classification of Forklift Trucks
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for around 100 years now. Even today, this particular type of machinery is found in each and every warehouse operation all around the world.
Because of World War I, there were shortages of manpower which ed to the creation of the first forklifts. Companies like Clark and Yale & Town introduced the material handling equipment that utilized powered lift tractors inside their plants. During 1918, Clark saw the potential for these equipment and started selling them.
It was in the 1920s that the design of forklifts evolved from a basic tractor with an attachment to a dedicated equipment that was equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more advanced with the Second World War. The forklift played a key part during this time in the handling of supplies for various armies throughout the globe. It was also at this time that the introduction of the wooden pallet proved the need for the lift truck within the material handling business.
Once WWII ended, the forklift gained momentum and continued to develop. In the 1950s, forklifts which use batteries made an appearance. There were other more specialized forklift models introduced like the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This kind was made by the Raymond Corporation. During the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made within the electronic controls area. This made forklifts much more versatile and businesses were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
These days, the forklift could be powered by numerous fuel options such as electric battery, diesel, gasoline, compressed natural gas or CNG, liquid propane gas or LPG. The very first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It now operates on diesel battery and lithium ion. This particular model utilizes 39% less fuel compared to existing models. Statistics prove that its carbon dioxide emissions are approximately 14.6 tons less than those types of forklifts which are powered by IC or internal combustion engines.