There are actually few pieces of heavy equipment that are as valuable or effective as a forklift for companies and businesses that have to move heavy materials and objects. Forklifts are a common site in distribution depots, lumber yards, manufacturing plants, dockyards, shipping and receiving, agriculture, warehouses and other work places which has to handle loads ranging from 3000 to 30,000 plus lbs.
Fork trucks are normally used to keep these operations working smoothly and efficiently. Though forklifts are a large investment, the injuries they reduce from heavy lifting and the amount of man hours they could save can make the purchase pay for itself in little time.
Available on the market today are numerous of different units from a lot of different manufacturers. These different models are designed specifically to handle certain particular tasks. In order to make sure that you don't purchase the wrong type of machine or buy more than you need, it is vital to evaluate your company's needs and compare to the various models available on the market. Speaking with a qualified forklift distributor is a very good idea and so is doing your own research online.
When looking at forklifts by fuel type, the following kinds are available:
Electric: The electric forklift is powered by lead-acid based rechargeable batteries. These large and heavy batteries could run a machinery for more than 5 or 6 straight hours. Electric units are best suited for indoor applications due to their lack of emissions. They are a common alternative for warehouses and retail spaces as they provide a fairly low cost per hour of operation and put zero emissions into the air where people are working.
Internal Combustion: IC forklifts work with a variety of fuels. Several units take compressed natural gas or CNG, others take diesel, liquid propane or LP or gasoline. In comparison to electric forklifts, the IC or internal combustion models could carry heavier loads, are easier to refuel and accelerate faster. These models are usually more pricey to utilize compared to their electric counterparts.
Fuel Cell: Hydrogen fuel cell lift trucks are the newest in forklift technology. These models provide the fast refueling capability of an internal combustion unit but provide the zero emissions and quietness of electric forklifts.
Nissan's outdoor units will provide synchronized steering. This feature returns the wheel knob to the original position automatically following completing a turn. Equipped with solid pneumatic tires to provide a comfortable ride both outdoors and indoors, these tires are more resistant to both wear and damage.