Warehouse Forklift Types
The type of multi-purpose machinery that could be utilized both outdoors and indoors are forklifts. They are capable of functioning on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial machines found on construction sites or in warehouses. Any warehouse forklift normally only has to be used on flat surfaces for the majority of their work scopes.
There are different classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are used in warehouses and higher classes are used more often in outdoor applications and are considered to be sturdier.
Classes of Forklifts
There are 4 kinds of warehouse forklift types among the 7 forklift classes. The classes 5 to 7 normally describe forklifts which are utilized to tow heavy loads or operate outside on rough surfaces. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor application because they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion power. These kinds of forklifts are able to be utilized indoors but due to the fumes they create, are suitable for open air warehouse operation. You would seldom find these kinds 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, the forklift operator sits down. To be able to differentiate between the latter three, lift code 4 forklifts have 3 wheels, whereas lift code 5 forklifts use cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts utilize pneumatic tires.
Narrow aisle forklifts are a term for class 2 forklifts. These types 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. Class 3 forklifts or electric hand trucks can also fit into tighter spaces. Class 3 operator either stands or walks behind the device, depending on the specific kind of forklift. Lift models could lift pallets and loads several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Instead of using IC or internal combustion engine forklifts, electric forklifts are commonly used in warehouses. There are advantages and disadvantages to utilizing electrical models. For start, they are environmentally friendly and could last longer. They are less expensive to run and cut down greatly on noise pollution. On the downside, they do not function well outdoors in bad weather conditions, are more expensive up front and nearly all models require charging every 6 hours. For obvious reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great option for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.