For businesses which raise and transport heavy supplies and goods regularly, there is probably no more valuable or effective equipment as the forklift. Lift trucks are a common site in distribution depots, lumber yards, dockyards, manufacturing plants, agriculture, warehouses, shipping and receiving and other work places that require to deal with loads ranging from 3000 to 30,000 plus pounds.
The lift truck is utilized most often to keep the flow of operations running as efficiently and smoothly as possible. Though forklifts are a huge investment, the amount of man hours they could save and the injuries they reduce from heavy lifting can make the purchase pay for itself in little time.
On the market today are numerous of different models from a lot of different manufacturers. These various models are made specially to handle some particular jobs. So as to make certain that you don't buy the wrong type of machine or purchase more than you require, it is vital to assess the requirements of your business and compare to the different models available on the market. Speaking with a authorized forklift distributor is a very good idea and so is doing your own research on the World Wide Web.
When looking at lift trucks by the type of fuel, the following types are available:
Electric: The electric forklift is run by lead-acid based rechargeable batteries. These heavy and large batteries could run a machine for more than 5 or 6 straight hours. Electric models are great for indoor applications because of their lack of emissions. They are a popular alternative for retail spaces and warehouses because they provide a fairly low cost per hour of operation and put zero emissions into the air where people are working.
Internal Combustion: IC forklifts work with a range of fuels. Several units take compressed natural gas or CNG, others take diesel, liquid propane or LP or gasoline. In comparison to electric forklifts, the internal combustion or IC units can carry heavier loads, accelerate faster and are easier to refuel. These units are usually more expensive to utilize than their electric counterparts.
Fuel Cell: The latest in lift truck technology is the Hydrogen fuel cell. These models provide the fast refueling capability of an IC unit but provide the zero emissions and quietness of electric forklifts.
Nissan's outdoor models will provide synchronized steering. This specific feature automatically returns the wheel knob to the original position after the completion of a turn. Outfitted with solid pneumatic tires to provide a comfortable ride both indoors and outdoors, these tires are more resistant to wear and damage.