Warehouse Forklift Types
The type of multi-purpose machine which could be used both indoors and outdoors are forklifts. They are capable of functioning on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial machines found on construction sites or inside warehouses. Any warehouse forklift normally only needs to be utilized on flat surfaces for the majority of their work scopes.
Forklifts have different classes. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized inside warehouses and higher classes are considered to be sturdier and utilized more frequently in outdoor applications.
Classes of Forklifts
There are 4 kinds of warehouse forklift types out of the 7 forklift classes. The classes 5 to 7 typically describe forklifts that operate outside on rough surfaces or are utilized to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor application because they use electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts depend on internal combustion engine. These models could be utilized indoors but because of the fumes they create, are better suited for open air warehouse operation. You will rarely find these kinds of forklifts in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Class 1 forklifts could be divided into 4 lift codes or subcategories. The lift codes are described as one, four, five and six. The forklift operator 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, whereas lift code 5 forklifts utilize cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts utilize pneumatic tires.
Narrow aisle forklifts are a term for class 2 forklifts. These models are used in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are great for spaces which are very small for a sit-down rider forklift. Electric hand trucks or class 3 forklifts can also fit into tighter spaces. Class 3 operator either stands or walks behind the machine, depending on the specific model. Lift models can raise pallets and loads several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Most commonly, electrical forklifts are utilized in warehouses as opposed to internal combustion or IC engine forklifts. There are some disadvantages and advantages to using electrical models. To start with, they can last longer and are environmentally friendly. They are less expensive to run and cut down greatly on noise pollution. On the downside, they do not operate well outdoors in bad climate, are more expensive up front and nearly all models require charging every 6 hours. For obvious reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are an ideal alternative for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.