Types of Warehouse Forklifts
Forklifts are multi-purpose machinery that could be used indoors and outdoors. They are capable of functioning on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial equipment found on construction sites or in warehouses. Any warehouse forklift usually only has to be used on surfaces which are flat for the majority of their work scopes.
There are various classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized inside warehouses and higher classes are considered to be sturdier and used more frequently in outdoor operation.
Classes of Forklifts
There are 4 kinds of warehouse forklift types out of the 7 forklift classes. The classes 5 to 7 normally describe forklifts that operate outside on rough surfaces or are used to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are great for indoor use because they use electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts depend on internal combustion engine. These kinds of forklifts could be used indoors but because of the fumes they create, are better suited for open air warehouse operation. You will rarely find these models 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 one, four, five and six. The operator of the forklift stands up in a lift code 1 forklift. In lift codes 4 through 6, the forklift operator sits down. In order to differentiate between the latter three, lift code 4 forklifts have 3 wheels, whereas lift code 5 forklifts have cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts utilize pneumatic tires.
Narrow aisle forklifts are a term for class 2 forklifts. These models are utilized in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are great for spaces which are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Class 3 forklifts or electric hand trucks can fit into tighter spaces also. Class 3 operator either stands or walks behind the device, depending on the particular type of forklift. Lift models could raise pallets and loads a few feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Usually, electrical forklifts are used in warehouses as opposed to IC or internal combustion engine forklifts. There are advantages and disadvantages to using electrical models. To begin with, they can last longer and are environmentally friendly. They cost less to operate and cut down greatly on noise pollution. On the downside, they do not operate well outdoors in bad climate, are more expensive up front and most models require charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great alternative for indoor areas and warehouses most of the time.