Kinds of Warehouse Forklifts
Forklifts are multi-purpose equipment that could be utilized outdoors and indoors. They are capable of functioning on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial machines found inside warehouses or on construction sites. Any warehouse forklift usually just has to be used on surfaces which are flat for most of their work scopes.
Forklifts have various classes. Lower classes of forklifts are used inside warehouses and higher classes are considered to be sturdier and utilized more frequently in outdoor applications.
Classes of Forklifts
Of the 7 classes of forklifts, there are 4 types of warehouse forklifts. The classes 5 to 7 typically describe forklifts that are used to tow heavy loads or operate outside on rough surfaces. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor application as they use electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion power. These models are able to be utilized indoors but because of the fumes they create, are better suited for open air warehouse operation. You would rarely find these types of forklifts in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Class 1 forklifts could be broken down into 4 lift codes or subcategories. The lift codes are described as six, five, four and one. The forklift operator stands up in a lift code 1 forklift. In lift codes 4 through 6, he sits down. In order to differentiate between the latter three, lift code 4 forklifts have 3 wheels, while lift code 5 forklifts have cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts use pneumatic tires.
A term utilized for Class 2 forklifts is narrow aisle forklifts. These models are operated by a standing rider and used in tight spaces. They are perfect for spaces that are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Class 3 forklifts or electric hand trucks can fit into tighter spaces too. Class 3 operator either stands or walks behind the machine, depending on the particular model. Lift models could raise loads and pallets several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Rather than using internal combustion or IC engine forklifts, electric forklifts are commonly utilized inside warehouses. There are disadvantages and advantages to electrical models. To begin with, they are environmentally friendly and could last longer. They are less expensive to operate and cut down greatly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not function well outdoors in bad weather conditions and most models need charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are an ideal option for indoor areas and warehouses most of the time.