Kinds of Warehouse Forklifts
Forklifts are multi-purpose machinery which could be used outdoors and indoors. They are capable of working on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial machines found inside warehouses or on construction sites. Any warehouse forklift normally just has to be utilized on flat surfaces for most of their work scopes.
There are various classes of forklifts. 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 normally describe forklifts that are utilized to tow heavy loads or operate outside on rough surfaces. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor use since they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts depend on internal combustion engine. These models can be utilized indoors but due to the fumes they make, are better suited for open air warehouse operation. You would seldom find these models in strictly indoor environments.
Class One Forklifts
Class 1 forklifts could be broken down into 4 subcategories or lift codes. The lift codes are described as one, four, five and six. The operator of the forklift stands up in a lift code 1 forklift. In lift codes 4 through 6, he sits down. To be able to differentiate between the latter three, lift code 4 forklifts have 3 wheels, whereas lift code 5 forklifts use cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts use pneumatic tires.
Narrow aisle forklifts are a term for class 2 forklifts. These types of forklifts are used in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are perfect for spaces which are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Class 3 forklifts or electric hand trucks can also fit into tighter spaces. The operator for class 3 either stands or walks behind the machine, depending on the particular model. Lift models can lift pallets and loads several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Usually, electrical forklifts are used inside warehouses rather than internal combustion or IC engine forklifts. There are several advantages and disadvantages to using electrical models. To begin with, they are environmentally friendly and could last longer. They cost less to operate and cut down greatly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not operate well outdoors in bad climate 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.