Types of Warehouse Forklifts
The kind of multi-purpose machine which can be utilized both outdoors and indoors are forklifts. They can operate on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial machines found in warehouses or on construction sites. Any warehouse forklift usually only needs to be used on surfaces that are flat for most of their work scopes.
There are different classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized in warehouses and higher classes are considered to be sturdier and utilized more often in outdoor applications.
Classes of Forklifts
There are 4 kinds of warehouse forklift types among the 7 forklift classes. The classes 5 to 7 typically describe forklifts which operate outside on rough surfaces or are used to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are great for indoor use because they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion power. These types of forklifts are able to be utilized indoors but due to the fumes they make, are suitable for open air warehouse operation. You will seldom find these kinds of forklifts in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Class 1 forklifts can be divided into 4 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. In order to differentiate between the latter three, lift code 4 forklifts have 3 wheels, while lift code 5 forklifts use cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts have pneumatic tires.
Narrow aisle forklifts are a term for class 2 forklifts. These types of forklifts are operated by a standing rider and utilized in tight spaces. They are perfect 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. The operator for class 3 either walks behind the machine or stands, depending on the specific type of forklift. Lift models are able to lift loads and pallets several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Usually, electrical forklifts are utilized inside warehouses as opposed to IC or internal combustion engine forklifts. There are some disadvantages and advantages to electrical models. For start, they could last longer and are environmentally friendly. They cost less to run and cut down significantly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not operate well outdoors in bad weather and nearly all models need charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are an ideal option for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.