Warehouse Forklift Types
Forklifts are multi-purpose machines that could be used outdoors and indoors. They can operate on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial machines found inside warehouses or on construction sites. Any warehouse forklift normally just has to be utilized on flat surfaces for most of their work scopes.
There are different classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are used inside warehouses and higher classes are utilized more frequently in outdoor applications and are considered to be sturdier.
Classes of Forklifts
There are 4 kinds of warehouse forklift types out of the 7 forklift classes. The classes 5 to 7 normally describe forklifts which operate outside on rough surfaces or are utilized to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are great for indoor application since they use electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion or IC power. These types of forklifts could be used indoors but due to the fumes they create, are suitable for open air warehouse operation. You would seldom find these types of forklifts in strictly indoor environments.
Class One Forklifts
Class 1 forklifts could be broken down into 4 subcategories or lift codes. The lift codes are described as six, five, four and one. The operator of the forklift stands up in a lift code 1 forklift. In lift codes 4 through 6, he sits down. In order to differentiate between the latter three, lift code 4 forklifts have 3 wheels, whereas 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 great for spaces that are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Class 3 forklifts or electric hand trucks could also fit into tighter spaces. The operator for class 3 either stands or walks behind the device, depending on the particular type of forklift. Lift models can lift pallets and loads a few feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Rather than using internal combustion or IC engine forklifts, electric forklifts are usually used in warehouses. There are several disadvantages and advantages to utilizing electrical models. To begin with, they are environmentally friendly and can last longer. They cost less to operate and cut down significantly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not operate well outdoors in bad climate and nearly all models require charging every 6 hours. For obvious reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great option for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.