Warehouse Forklift Types
Forklifts are multi-purpose equipment that could be used indoors and outdoors. They can function on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial equipment found in warehouses or on construction sites. Any warehouse forklift usually just has to be used on surfaces that are flat for most of their work scopes.
There are various classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are used in warehouses and higher classes are considered to be sturdier and utilized more frequently in outdoor applications.
Classes of Forklifts
Of the 7 classes of forklifts, there are 4 types of warehouse forklifts. The classes 5 to 7 normally describe forklifts that are used to tow heavy loads or operate outside on rough surfaces. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor application as they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion engine. These types of forklifts are able to be utilized indoors but because of the fumes they make, are better suited for open air warehouse operation. You will seldom find these types of forklifts in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Class 1 forklifts could 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.
A term used for Class 2 forklifts is narrow aisle forklifts. These kinds of forklifts are operated by a standing rider and used in tight spaces. They are perfect for spaces which are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Electric hand trucks or class 3 forklifts can also fit into tighter spaces. The operator for class 3 either walks behind the device or stands, depending on the specific model. Lift models can lift loads and pallets several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Instead of using internal combustion or IC engine forklifts, electric forklifts are commonly used in warehouses. There are several advantages and disadvantages to electrical models. For start, they are environmentally friendly and could last longer. They cost less to run and cut down greatly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not operate well outdoors in bad weather conditions and most models need charging every 6 hours. For obvious reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great alternative for indoor areas and warehouses most of the time.