Types of Warehouse Forklifts
Forklifts are multi-purpose equipment that can be utilized indoors and outdoors. They could operate on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial equipment found inside warehouses or on construction sites. Any warehouse forklift normally only needs to be utilized on flat surfaces for most of their work scopes.
There are different classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized in warehouses and higher classes are considered to be sturdier and used more frequently in outdoor operation.
Classes of Forklifts
Among 7 classes of forklifts, there are 4 kinds of warehouse forklifts. The classes 5 to 7 typically describe forklifts which are used to tow heavy loads or operate outside on rough surfaces. Classes 1 to 3 are great for indoor use as they use electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion power. These types of forklifts can be used indoors but due to the fumes they create, are suitable for open air warehouse operation. You will seldom find these models in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Class 1 forklifts can be broken down into 4 subcategories or lift codes. The lift codes are described as one, four, five and six. The operator of the forklift stands up in a lift code 1 forklift. In lift codes 4 through 6, the forklift operator sits down. In order 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 utilize pneumatic tires.
A term utilized for Class 2 forklifts is narrow aisle forklifts. These kinds of forklifts are utilized in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are great for spaces that are very small for a sit-down rider forklift. Class 3 forklifts or electric hand trucks could fit into tighter spaces too. Class 3 operator either stands or walks behind the device, depending on the specific type of forklift. Lift models could raise loads and pallets several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Most commonly, electrical forklifts are utilized in warehouses rather than internal combustion or IC engine forklifts. There are several advantages and disadvantages to electrical models. For start, they are environmentally friendly and can last longer. They cost less to run and cut down significantly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not operate well outdoors in bad climate and nearly all models require charging every 6 hours. For obvious reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are an ideal alternative for indoor areas and warehouses most of the time.