Forklifts
Forklifts are utilized to transfer, raise and engage palletized loads in construction, material handling, manufacturing and warehousing operation. With manual-drive forklifts, the travel or load movement is either powered manually or walk-behind. Motorized drive forklifts have a motorized drive. In many kinds of forklifts, the forklift has a protected cab or seat for the operator. Fork trucks have features such as backup alarms, and cabs and are also motorized. Various models of forklifts are counterbalanced in order to prevent the vehicle from tipping over. Other models are available with safety rails, or a rotating element like for instance a turntable or a hand rail.
The stroke and lift capacity are other factors which you should take into consideration when choosing a type of forklift. Lift capacity is defined as the supportable, maximum load or force. Stroke is defined as the difference between fully lowered and completely raised lift positions.
The type of tire and the type of fuel are also other key specifications that must be considered. The fuel choices available are: liquid propane or LP, natural gas, CNG or compressed natural gas, electricity, propane, diesel or gasoline.
For forklifts and fork trucks, there are two basic types of tires which can be utilized. They are: pneumatic and solid. The cushion or solid tires need less maintenance than pneumatic tires and do not easily puncture. Pneumatic or air-inflated tires offer great drive traction and load-cushioning. At the end of the day, cushion or solid tires provide less shock absorption.
Usually utilized on rough terrain are Class VII forklifts. These machinery are often used in construction, agriculture and in logging environments. Lastly, Class VIII forklifts include all burden and personnel carriers. Dual Fuel forklifts frequently fit in this class.