Forklift Truck Classification
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for about 100 years now. Even now, this particular type of equipment is found in each and every warehouse operation all around the world.
Because of WWI, there were shortages of manpower that ed to the creation of the first forklifts. Companies like for instance Clark and Yale & Town introduced the material handling equipment that used powered lift tractors inside their plants. In the year 1918, Clark saw the potential for these equipment and started selling them.
From a basic tractor with an attachment, the design of forklifts evolved in the 1920s, to a dedicated equipment equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more sophisticated with WWII. The forklift played a vital role during this time in the handling of supplies for various armies all around the world. It was also at this time that wooden pallets were introduced that solidified the need for the lift truck in the material handling business.
When 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 types of forklifts introduced like the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This particular model 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.
Today, the forklift could be powered by numerous fuel options such as electric battery, diesel, gasoline, compressed natural gas or CNG, LPG or liquid propane gas. The first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It now runs on diesel battery and lithium ion. This kind uses 39% less fuel compared to existing models. Statistics prove that its carbon dioxide emissions are approximately 14.6 tons less compared to those types of forklifts that are powered by internal combustion or IC engines.