Warehouse Forklift Types
The type of multi-purpose equipment that can be utilized both outdoors and indoors are forklifts. They can operate on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial equipment found inside warehouses or on construction sites. Any warehouse forklift normally only has 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 utilized inside warehouses and higher classes are utilized more often in outdoor operation and are considered to be sturdier.
Classes of Forklifts
Among 7 classes of forklifts, there are 4 types of warehouse forklifts. The classes 5 to 7 normally describe forklifts which operate outside on rough surfaces or are used to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor use since they use electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts depend on internal combustion power. These types of forklifts are able to be used indoors but due to the fumes they make, are better suited for open air warehouse operation. You will rarely find these kinds of forklifts in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Forklifts which belong to Class 1 can be divided into four subcategories or lift codes. The lift codes are described as six, five, four and one. The forklift operator stands up in a lift code 1 forklift. In lift codes 4 through 6, the forklift operator sits down. In order to differentiate between the latter three, lift code 4 forklifts have 3 wheels, while lift code 5 forklifts have cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts utilize pneumatic tires.
Narrow aisle forklifts are a term for class 2 forklifts. These models are operated by a standing rider and used in tight spaces. They are perfect for spaces which are very small for a sit-down rider forklift. Class 3 forklifts or electric hand trucks could fit into tighter spaces also. Class 3 operator either walks behind the device or stands, depending on the specific kind of forklift. Lift models could raise pallets and loads a few feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Instead of utilizing IC or internal combustion engine forklifts, electric forklifts are commonly utilized in warehouses. There are several advantages and disadvantages to electrical models. For start, they are environmentally friendly and could last longer. They cost less to run and cut down significantly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not function well outdoors in bad climate and nearly all models need charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are an ideal alternative for indoor areas and warehouses most of the time.