Types of Warehouse Forklifts
Forklifts are multi-purpose machines which can be used indoors and outdoors. They can function on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial equipment found on construction sites or inside warehouses. Any warehouse forklift normally only has to be utilized 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 utilized more often in outdoor applications and are considered to be sturdier.
Classes of Forklifts
Among 7 classes of forklifts, there are 4 types of warehouse forklifts. The classes 5 to 7 typically describe forklifts that are used to tow heavy loads or operate outside on rough surfaces. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor application as they use electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts depend on internal combustion or IC engine. These models are able to be utilized indoors but due to the fumes they create, are better suited for open air warehouse operation. You would rarely find these types of forklifts in strictly indoor environments.
Class One Forklifts
Class 1 forklifts could be broken down into 4 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, 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 have cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts have pneumatic tires.
Narrow aisle forklifts are a term for class 2 forklifts. These kinds of forklifts are operated by a standing rider and utilized in tight spaces. They are perfect for spaces that are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Electric hand trucks or class 3 forklifts can also fit into tighter spaces. Class 3 operator either stands or walks behind the machine, depending on the specific model. 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 usually used inside warehouses. There are disadvantages and advantages to electrical models. To start with, they are environmentally friendly and can last longer. They are less expensive to operate and cut down greatly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not operate well outdoors in bad weather conditions and most models require charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are an ideal choice for indoor areas and warehouses most of the time.