Forklift Truck Classification
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for around 100 years now. Even today, this type of equipment is found in every warehouse operation throughout the globe.
The very first forklifts were built because of manpower shortages that were caused by World War I. Businesses like Yale & Town and Clark introduced the material handling machine which utilized powered lift tractors inside their plants. During 1918, Clark saw the potential for these equipment and began selling them.
From a basic tractor with an attachment, the design of forklifts changed in the 1920s, to a dedicated machine equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more advanced with WWII. The forklift played a vital part during this time in the handling of materials for different armies throughout the world. It was also during this time that wooden pallets were introduced which solidified the need for the lift truck in the material handling business.
When the Second World War ended, the forklift gained momentum and continued to develop. During the 1950s, battery driven forklifts made an appearance. There were other more specialized types of forklifts introduced like for instance the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This particular kind was made by the Raymond Corporation. During the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made in the electronic controls area. This made forklifts much more versatile and businesses were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
Nowadays, the forklift could be powered by various fuel options such as diesel, electrical battery, 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 type consumes 39% less fuel than existing models. Statistics prove that its carbon dioxide emissions are roughly 14.6 tons less compared to those types of forklifts which are powered by IC or internal combustion engines.