Warehouse Forklift Types
The type of multi-purpose equipment that could be used both indoors and outdoors are forklifts. They can operate on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial equipment found inside warehouses or on construction sites. Any warehouse forklift usually just has to be used on surfaces which are flat for the majority of their work scopes.
Forklifts have various classes. Lower classes of forklifts are used inside warehouses and higher classes are considered to be sturdier and utilized more frequently in outdoor applications.
Classes of Forklifts
Amongst 7 classes of forklifts, there are 4 types of warehouse forklifts. The classes 5 to 7 typically describe forklifts that operate outside on rough surfaces or are used to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are great for indoor application as they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts depend on internal combustion engine. These models can be utilized indoors but due to the fumes they create, are better suited for open air warehouse operation. You will seldom find these types of forklifts in strictly indoor environments.
Class One Forklifts
Forklifts that belong to Class 1 can be divided into four 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, he sits down. To be able to differentiate between the latter three, lift code 4 forklifts have 3 wheels, whereas 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 models are used in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are great for spaces that are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Class 3 forklifts or electric hand trucks could fit into tighter spaces too. The operator for class 3 either stands or walks behind the machine, depending on the particular type of forklift. Lift models could lift pallets and loads several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Rather than utilizing internal combustion or IC engine forklifts, electric forklifts are commonly utilized in warehouses. There are some disadvantages and advantages to utilizing electrical models. To begin with, they are environmentally friendly and could last longer. They cost less to operate and cut down significantly on noise pollution. On the downside, they do not function well outdoors in bad climate, are more expensive up front and nearly all models require charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great option for indoor areas and warehouses most of the time.