Forklift Truck Classification
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for around 100 years now. Even now, this particular type of equipment is found in every warehouse operation throughout the world.
The first forklifts were made because of manpower shortages which were caused by WWI. Businesses like for example Clark and Yale & Town introduced the material handling equipment that utilized powered lift tractors in their factories. In the year 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machinery and began selling them.
From a basic tractor with an attachment, the forklift design changed in the 1920s, to a dedicated equipment equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more advanced with the Second World War. The forklift played a key role during this time in the handling of materials for different armies throughout the globe. It was also at this time that the introduction of the wooden pallet proved the need for the lift truck in the material handling industry.
As soon as 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 types of forklifts introduced like for example the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This particular type was made by the Raymond Corporation. During the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made in the electronic controls area. This made forklifts much more versatile and companies were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
Today, the forklift can be powered by various fuel options like electric battery, diesel, compressed natural gas or CNG, gasoline, LPG or liquid propane gas. The first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It now operates on lithium ion and diesel battery. This model consumes 39% less fuel than existing models. Statistics prove that its carbon dioxide emissions are around 14.6 tons less compared to those forklift models which are powered by internal combustion or IC engines.