Classification of Forklift Trucks
For less than a century, the forklift truck has been working its magic. Even today, this type of machine is found in every warehouse operation all over the globe.
Because of WWI, there were shortages of manpower which ed to the construction of the first forklifts. Companies like Clark and Yale & Town introduced the material handling machine which utilized powered lift tractors in their plants. In the year 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machinery and began selling them.
From a basic tractor with an attachment, the forklift design changed in the 1920s, to a dedicated equipment equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more advanced with World War II. The forklift played a key part during this time in the handling of supplies 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 within the material handling business.
Forklifts gained momentum and continued to develop when the Second World War ended. During the 1950s, forklifts which utilize batteries made an appearance. There were other more specialized forklift models introduced like for instance the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This particular kind was made by the Raymond Corporation. During the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made in the electronic controls area. This made forklifts a lot more versatile and businesses were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
These days, the forklift can be powered by various fuel options like electric battery, diesel, gasoline, CNG or compressed natural gas, liquid propane gas or LPG. The very first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It now operates on lithium ion and diesel battery. This particular kind utilizes 39 percent 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 internal combustion or IC engines.