Forklift Truck Classification
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for around 100 years now. Even now, this piece of equipment is found in each and every warehouse operation throughout the globe.
The first forklifts were made because of manpower shortages that were caused by WWI. Companies like Yale & Town and Clark introduced the material handling equipment which used powered lift tractors in their factories. During the year 1918, Clark saw the potential for these equipment and began selling them.
It was in the 1920s that the design of forklifts changed from a basic tractor with an attachment to a dedicated machinery which was equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more sophisticated with World War II. The forklift played a key part during this time in the handling of materials for different armies all over the world. It was also at this time that wooden pallets were introduced which proved the need for the lift truck in the material handling industry.
Once WWII ended, the forklift gained momentum and continued to develop. In the 1950s, battery operated forklifts made an appearance. There were other more specialized forklift models introduced like the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This kind was made by the Raymond Corporation. In the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made in the electronic controls area. This made forklifts much more versatile and businesses were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
These days, the forklift can be powered by numerous fuel options like electric battery, diesel, gasoline, CNG or compressed natural gas, LPG or liquid propane gas. The first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It currently operates on diesel battery and lithium ion. This model utilizes 39% less fuel than existing models. Statistics show that its carbon dioxide emissions are around 14.6 tons less than those types of forklifts which are powered by IC or internal combustion engines.