Forklift Truck Classification
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for approximately 100 years now. Even now, this kind of equipment is found in every warehouse operation all over the globe.
The first forklifts were built because of manpower shortages that were caused by World War I. Businesses such as Yale & Town and Clark introduced the material handling machine which utilized powered lift tractors inside their plants. During 1918, Clark saw the potential for these equipment and started selling them.
From a basic tractor with an attachment, the forklift design evolved during the 1920s, to a dedicated machinery equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more advanced with WWII. The forklift played a vital part during this time in the handling of supplies for different armies all around the world. It was also at this time that the introduction of the wooden pallet solidified the need for the forklift within the material handling business.
Lift trucks gained momentum and continued to develop as soon as World War II ended. During the 1950s, forklifts that utilize batteries made an appearance. There were other more specialized forklift models introduced such as the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This model was made by the Raymond Corporation. During the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made in the electronic controls area. This made forklifts much more versatile and companies were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
These days, the forklift can be powered by numerous fuel options such as diesel, electrical battery, compressed natural gas or CNG, gasoline, LPG or liquid propane gas. The first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It currently runs on diesel battery and lithium ion. This type uses 39% less fuel compared to existing models. Statistics show that its carbon dioxide emissions are approximately 14.6 tons less compared to those kinds of forklifts that are powered by IC or internal combustion engines.