Types of Warehouse Forklifts
The kind of multi-purpose machine that could be used both indoors and outdoors are forklifts. They are capable of functioning on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial equipment found on construction sites or in warehouses. Any warehouse forklift normally only has to be used on surfaces which are flat for most of their work scopes.
Forklifts have different classes. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized inside warehouses and higher classes are used more often in outdoor operation 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 typically describe forklifts which are utilized to tow heavy loads or operate outside on rough surfaces. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor use as they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts depend on internal combustion or IC engine. These models are able to be used indoors but due to the fumes they make, are suitable for open air warehouse applications. You will rarely find these types of forklifts in strictly indoor environments.
Class One Forklifts
Class 1 forklifts could be divided into 4 subcategories or lift codes. The lift codes are described as six, five, four and one. The forklift operator 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, whereas lift code 5 forklifts use 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 used in tight spaces. They are perfect for spaces that are very small for a sit-down rider forklift. Class 3 forklifts or electric hand trucks could fit into tighter spaces also. Class 3 operator either stands or walks behind the machine, depending on the specific kind of forklift. Lift models can lift pallets and loads several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Rather than utilizing IC or internal combustion engine forklifts, electric forklifts are commonly used in warehouses. There are several disadvantages and advantages to using electrical models. For start, they can last longer and are environmentally friendly. They are less expensive 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 weather and nearly all models require charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great choice for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.