Forklift Truck Classification
For little under a century, the forklift truck has been working its magic. Even now, this particular piece of machinery is found in each and every warehouse operation all over the globe.
The very first forklifts were built as a result of manpower shortages that were caused by WWI. Companies like Yale & Town and Clark introduced the material handling machine which used powered lift tractors in their plants. In 1918, Clark saw the potential for these equipment and started selling them.
From a basic tractor with an attachment, the design of forklifts changed in the 1920s, to a dedicated machine equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more sophisticated with World War II. The forklift played an essential role during this time in the handling of materials for various armies throughout the world. It was also during this time that wooden pallets were introduced which solidified the need for the forklift in the material handling industry.
When the Second World War ended, the forklift gained momentum and continued to develop. In the 1950s, forklifts which use batteries made an appearance. There were other more specialized forklift models introduced such as the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This kind was made by the Raymond Corporation. In the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made within the electronic controls area. This made forklifts a lot more versatile and businesses were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
Nowadays, the forklift can be powered by various fuel options like diesel, electrical battery, CNG or compressed natural gas, gasoline, liquid propane gas or LPG. The very first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It presently runs on lithium ion and diesel battery. This type uses 39 percent less fuel compared to 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.