Types of Warehouse Forklifts
Forklifts are multi-purpose equipment that could be utilized outdoors and indoors. They are capable of functioning on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial machines found on construction sites or in warehouses. Any warehouse forklift usually just needs to be utilized on surfaces which are flat for the majority of their work scopes.
There are different classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are used in warehouses and higher classes are used more frequently in outdoor applications and are considered to be sturdier.
Classes of Forklifts
There are 4 kinds of warehouse forklift types among the 7 forklift classes. The classes 5 to 7 typically describe forklifts that operate outside on rough surfaces or are used to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are great for indoor application as they use electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion engine. These types of forklifts could be used indoors but due to the fumes they make, are suitable for open air warehouse applications. You will rarely find these models in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Forklifts that belong to Class 1 can be divided into four subcategories or lift codes. The lift codes are described as one, four, five and six. The operator of the forklift stands up in a lift code 1 forklift. In lift codes 4 through 6, he sits down. In order to differentiate between the latter three, lift code 4 forklifts have 3 wheels, while lift code 5 forklifts use cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts use pneumatic tires.
Narrow aisle forklifts are a term for class 2 forklifts. These models are utilized in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are great for spaces that are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Class 3 forklifts or electric hand trucks can also fit into tighter spaces. Class 3 operator either walks behind the device or stands, depending on the particular model. Lift models are able to lift pallets and loads several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Most commonly, electrical forklifts are used inside warehouses as opposed to internal combustion or IC engine forklifts. There are several advantages and disadvantages to electrical models. For start, they could last longer and are environmentally friendly. They cost less to run and cut down significantly on noise pollution. On the downside, they do not function well outdoors in bad weather conditions, are more expensive up front and most models require charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are an ideal choice for indoor areas and warehouses most of the time.