Warehouse Forklift Types
The type of multi-purpose machinery which could be used both outdoors and indoors are forklifts. They can function on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial equipment found on construction sites or in warehouses. Any warehouse forklift usually only has to be utilized on flat surfaces for most of their work scopes.
There are various classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are used inside warehouses and higher classes are considered to be sturdier and utilized more often in outdoor operation.
Classes of Forklifts
Amongst 7 classes of forklifts, there are 4 kinds of warehouse forklifts. The classes 5 to 7 typically describe forklifts which operate outside on rough surfaces or are utilized to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are great for indoor use because they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts depend on internal combustion power. These models are able to be used indoors but due to the fumes they create, are suitable for open air warehouse operation. You will seldom find these types 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 one, four, five and six. The operator of the forklift stands up in a lift code 1 forklift. In lift codes 4 through 6, the forklift operator sits down. To be able to differentiate between the latter three, lift code 4 forklifts have 3 wheels, whereas lift code 5 forklifts use cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts use pneumatic tires.
A term utilized for Class 2 forklifts is narrow aisle forklifts. These models are used 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 machine or stands, depending on the specific model. Lift models could lift loads and pallets several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Usually, electrical forklifts are utilized inside warehouses as opposed to internal combustion or IC engine forklifts. There are some advantages and disadvantages to using electrical models. For start, they are environmentally friendly and could last longer. They cost less to operate and cut down significantly on noise pollution. On the downside, they do not operate well outdoors in bad weather conditions, are more expensive up front and nearly all models need charging every 6 hours. For obvious reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are an ideal option for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.