Forklift Truck Classification
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for approximately 100 years now. Even now, this piece of equipment is found in each and every warehouse operation all over the world.
Because of World War I, there were shortages of manpower which resulted in the construction of the first forklifts. Companies like for instance Yale & Town and Clark introduced the material handling equipment which utilized powered lift tractors inside their plants. During 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machines and began selling them.
From a basic tractor with an attachment, the design of forklifts evolved during 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 vital part during this time in the handling of materials for various armies all over the world. It was also during this time that the introduction of the wooden pallet solidified the need for the lift truck within the material handling industry.
Lift trucks gained momentum and continued to develop as soon as World War II ended. During the 1950s, battery driven forklifts made an appearance. There were other more specialized forklift models introduced like for example the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This particular type was made by the Raymond Corporation. In the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made in the electronic controls area. This made forklifts a lot more versatile and companies 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 presently runs on lithium ion and diesel battery. This particular type consumes 39% less fuel than existing models. Statistics show that its carbon dioxide emissions are roughly 14.6 tons less than those types of forklifts that are powered by IC or internal combustion engines.