Kinds of Warehouse Forklifts
Forklifts are multi-purpose machines that could be utilized indoors and outdoors. They can operate on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial machines found inside warehouses or on construction sites. Any warehouse forklift usually only has to be utilized on flat surfaces for most of their work scopes.
There are different classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are used in warehouses and higher classes are considered to be sturdier and used more often in outdoor applications.
Classes of Forklifts
There are 4 kinds of warehouse forklift types out of the 7 forklift classes. The classes 5 to 7 usually describe forklifts that operate outside on rough surfaces or are used to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor use because they use electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion power. These models could be used indoors but due to the fumes they make, are suitable for open air warehouse operation. You would seldom find these types of forklifts in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Class 1 forklifts could be broken down into 4 subcategories or lift codes. The lift codes are described as six, five, four and one. The operator of the forklift 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 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 perfect for spaces which are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Electric hand trucks or class 3 forklifts can fit into tighter spaces too. Class 3 operator either walks behind the machine or stands, depending on the specific type of forklift. Lift models can lift pallets and loads several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Most commonly, electrical forklifts are utilized in warehouses rather than IC or internal combustion engine forklifts. There are advantages and disadvantages to electrical models. For start, 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 function well outdoors in bad climate, are more expensive up front and most models need charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are an ideal option for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.