Since its introduction in the early 1920s, the lift truck has become an invaluable piece of machinery found in many warehousing and industrial operations. Clark, one of the pioneers of the first forklift, has grown to become a leader in the material handling industry and still remains a leading supplier. Different other well-known names in the making of these machines include: Hyster, Nissan, Yale Toyota, Mitsubishi and Cat.
The Hyster type of forklift has become amongst the industries most popular manufacturers. The fact is, in several regions, the word "Hyster" is synonymous with forklift. Various other names for this industrial lifting machinery comprise: lift truck, jitney, high/low, fork truck and stacker truck.
The ancestor of today's equipment was first made during the early 19th century. At this time, battery-powered, small units were made for the purpose of moving traveler's baggage in Pennsylvania at the Altoona train station. In the First World War, various types were made in England specially to be utilized in the material handling industry. These machines evolved as a solution to the lack of manpower at that time.
Today's machines come in many configurations and sizes. Sod loaders are big truck-mounted forklift models and several of the larger machines, whereas the smaller machines consist of hand truck units. There are also a line of automated versions referred to as forklift automated guided vehicles that are practically robotic in nature. These units were made as a means of lowering operational expenses and to improve production.
Attachments have been made to fit onto many regular forklifts, giving them the capability of performing a wider selection of jobs. The motors could be IC or internal combustion units, working on propane, diesel or gasoline, or there are battery operated options that need regular charging. Standard warehouse models will usually be rated to lift between roughly 1 and 5 tons.
The lift truck has become a priceless part within the material handling business. Many of these units are used on a daily basis throughout the globe to complete tasks which used to require a lot more man-power. Operators should take stringent training courses so as to safely and legally operate these heavy machinery. Numerous workers have longer careers now and better overall health due to their not having to raise items manually anymore as the forklifts are capable of handling those situations now instead.