Types of Warehouse Forklifts
Forklifts are multi-purpose equipment which can be used indoors and outdoors. They can function on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial machines found in warehouses or on construction sites. Any warehouse forklift usually just needs to be utilized on surfaces that are flat for most of their work scopes.
Forklifts have various classes. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized in warehouses and higher classes are utilized more often in outdoor applications and are considered to be sturdier.
Classes of Forklifts
There are 4 kinds of warehouse forklift types amongst the 7 forklift classes. The classes 5 to 7 typically describe forklifts which operate outside on rough surfaces or are used to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor application because they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion or IC power. These models are able to be utilized indoors but because of the fumes they create, are suitable for open air warehouse operation. You will rarely find these types of forklifts in strictly indoor environments.
Class One Forklifts
Forklifts that belong to Class 1 can be divided into four 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. To be able to differentiate between the latter three, lift code 4 forklifts have 3 wheels, while lift code 5 forklifts utilize cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts have pneumatic tires.
Narrow aisle forklifts are a term for class 2 forklifts. These models are operated by a standing rider and used in tight spaces. They are great for spaces that are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Electric hand trucks or class 3 forklifts can fit into tighter spaces too. The operator for class 3 either stands or walks behind the device, depending on the specific type of forklift. Lift models are able to lift pallets and loads several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Rather than utilizing internal combustion or IC engine forklifts, electric forklifts are usually used inside warehouses. There are advantages and disadvantages to utilizing electrical models. For start, they could last longer and are environmentally friendly. They cost less to run and cut down significantly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not operate well outdoors in bad climate and nearly all models need charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are an ideal alternative for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.