Classification of Forklift Trucks
For little under a century, the forklift truck has been working its magic. Even today, this particular piece of equipment is found in every warehouse operation all around the world.
Because of WWI, there were shortages of manpower that ed to the creation of the first forklifts. Businesses like for instance Clark and Yale & Town introduced the material handling machine that used powered lift tractors inside their factories. During 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machinery and began selling them.
From a simple 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 World War II. The forklift played an essential part during this time in the handling of supplies for various armies throughout the world. It was also during this time that the introduction of the wooden pallet proved the need for the forklift in the material handling industry.
As soon as World War II 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 type was made by the Raymond Corporation. During the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made within the electronic controls area. This made forklifts a lot more versatile and businesses were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
Today, the forklift can be powered by numerous fuel options like electric battery, diesel, CNG or compressed natural gas, gasoline, liquid propane gas or LPG. The first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It now runs on lithium ion and diesel battery. This particular model uses 39% less fuel than existing models. Statistics prove that its carbon dioxide emissions are around 14.6 tons less compared to those kinds of forklifts which are powered by IC or internal combustion engines.