Kinds of Warehouse Forklifts
The kind of multi-purpose machine that can be used both indoors and outdoors are forklifts. They could function on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial equipment found on construction sites or in warehouses. Any warehouse forklift normally just needs to be used on flat surfaces for the majority of their work scopes.
Forklifts have different classes. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized 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 which are used to tow heavy loads or operate outside on rough surfaces. Classes 1 to 3 are great for indoor use because they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts depend on internal combustion or IC power. These kinds of forklifts could be utilized indoors but due to the fumes they make, are suitable for open air warehouse applications. You would seldom find these models in strictly indoor setting.
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 operator of the forklift 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 use pneumatic tires.
Narrow aisle forklifts are a term for class 2 forklifts. These kinds of forklifts are used in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are perfect for spaces that are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Electric hand trucks or class 3 forklifts can fit into tighter spaces also. Class 3 operator either stands or walks behind the device, depending on the particular kind of forklift. Lift models are able to raise pallets and loads several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Most commonly, electrical forklifts are used in warehouses as opposed to IC or internal combustion engine forklifts. There are several advantages and disadvantages to using electrical models. For start, they can last longer and are environmentally friendly. They are less expensive to operate and cut down greatly on noise pollution. On the downside, they do not operate well outdoors in bad climate, are more expensive up front and most models require charging every 6 hours. For obvious reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are an ideal choice for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.