Classification of Forklift Trucks
For little under a century, the forklift truck has been working its magic. Even now, this particular kind of machine is found in each and every warehouse operation throughout the world.
Because of WWI, there were shortages of manpower which resulted in the construction of the very first forklifts. Businesses like for instance Yale & Town and Clark introduced the material handling machine which utilized powered lift tractors in their factories. During the year 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machines and started selling them.
It was during the 1920s that the forklift design changed from a tractor with an attachment to a dedicated machine that was equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more sophisticated with WWII. The forklift played an important role during this time in the handling of materials for various armies throughout the globe. It was also at this time that the introduction of the wooden pallet proved the need for the lift truck within the material handling business.
Once World War II ended, the forklift gained momentum and continued to develop. During the 1950s, battery operated forklifts made an appearance. There were other more specialized forklift models introduced like for instance the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This type was made by the Raymond Corporation. During the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made in the electronic controls area. This made forklifts a lot more versatile and companies were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
These days, the forklift can be powered by various fuel options such as diesel, electrical battery, CNG or compressed natural gas, gasoline, liquid propane gas or LPG. The first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It now operates on lithium ion and diesel battery. This type utilizes 39 percent less fuel than existing models. Statistics prove that its carbon dioxide emissions are roughly 14.6 tons less than those forklift models that are powered by internal combustion or IC engines.