Warehouse Forklift Types
Forklifts are multi-purpose machines which can be used indoors and outdoors. They are capable of working on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial equipment found in warehouses or on construction sites. Any warehouse forklift normally just has to be used on flat surfaces for most of their work scopes.
There are various classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are used in warehouses and higher classes are considered to be sturdier and used more often in outdoor applications.
Classes of Forklifts
Amongst 7 classes of forklifts, there are 4 types of warehouse forklifts. The classes 5 to 7 typically describe forklifts that operate outside on rough surfaces or are utilized to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor use because they use electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts depend on internal combustion or IC power. These types of forklifts could be used indoors but due to the fumes they create, are better suited for open air warehouse operation. You would rarely find these models in strictly indoor environments.
Class One Forklifts
Forklifts that 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. 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 utilize pneumatic tires.
Narrow aisle forklifts are a term for class 2 forklifts. These types of forklifts are used in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are great 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 model. Lift models can raise loads and pallets several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Instead of utilizing internal combustion or IC engine forklifts, electric forklifts are usually utilized inside warehouses. There are several disadvantages and advantages to electrical models. For start, they are environmentally friendly and can last longer. They are less expensive to operate and cut down greatly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not operate well outdoors in bad weather and most 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.