Classification of Forklift Trucks
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for around 100 years now. Even now, this particular kind of machine is found in every warehouse operation all around the world.
The first forklifts were built because of manpower shortages that were caused by WWI. Businesses like for instance Yale & Town and Clark introduced the material handling machine that utilized powered lift tractors inside their plants. In the year 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machines and started selling them.
It was during the 1920s that the forklift design changed from a tractor with an attachment to a dedicated machine that was equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more sophisticated with the Second World War. The forklift played a key part during this time in the handling of supplies for different armies throughout the world. It was also during this time that the introduction of the wooden pallet proved the need for the lift truck in the material handling industry.
Forklifts gained momentum and continued to develop when the Second World War ended. During the 1950s, battery operated forklifts made an appearance. There were other more specialized kinds of forklifts introduced such as the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This model was made by the Raymond Corporation. In the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made within the electronic controls area. This made forklifts much more versatile and businesses were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
Today, the forklift can be powered by various fuel options such as diesel, electrical battery, gasoline, compressed natural gas or CNG, LPG or liquid propane gas. The very first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It now operates on lithium ion and diesel battery. This type utilizes 39% less fuel than existing models. Statistics show that its carbon dioxide emissions are approximately 14.6 tons less compared to those kinds of forklifts which are powered by IC or internal combustion engines.