Forklift Truck Classification
For little under a century, the forklift truck has been working its magic. Even now, this kind of equipment is found in each and every warehouse operation all around the globe.
Because of World War I, there were shortages of manpower which resulted in the creation of the very first forklifts. Companies like for example Yale & Town and Clark introduced the material handling machine which used powered lift tractors in their factories. In 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machines and started selling them.
It was during the 1920s that the design of forklifts changed from a basic tractor with an attachment to a dedicated equipment which was equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more sophisticated with World War II. The forklift played a key part during this time in the handling of materials for various armies throughout the world. It was also during this time that wooden pallets were introduced which proved the need for the forklift within the material handling business.
Once the Second World War ended, the forklift gained momentum and continued to develop. In the 1950s, battery driven forklifts made an appearance. There were other more specialized kinds of forklifts introduced such as the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This particular kind 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.
Today, the forklift can be powered by numerous fuel options such as electric battery, diesel, compressed natural gas or CNG, gasoline, liquid propane gas or LPG. The first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It presently operates on diesel battery and lithium ion. This model utilizes 39% less fuel compared to existing models. Statistics show that its carbon dioxide emissions are approximately 14.6 tons less than those forklift models that are powered by IC or internal combustion engines.