Kinds of Warehouse Forklifts
The type of multi-purpose machinery that could be used both outdoors and indoors are forklifts. They are capable of working on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial equipment found on construction sites or inside warehouses. Any warehouse forklift usually just needs to be used on flat surfaces for the majority of their work scopes.
Forklifts have different classes. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized in warehouses and higher classes are utilized more often in outdoor applications and are considered to be sturdier.
Classes of Forklifts
Amongst 7 classes of forklifts, there are 4 types of warehouse forklifts. The classes 5 to 7 typically describe forklifts which are used to tow heavy loads or operate outside on rough surfaces. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor use since they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts depend on internal combustion or IC engine. These models can be used indoors but due to the fumes they make, are better suited for open air warehouse operation. You would seldom find these kinds of forklifts in strictly indoor environments.
Class One Forklifts
Forklifts which belong to Class 1 can be divided into four subcategories or lift codes. The lift codes are described as six, five, four and one. The forklift operator stands up in a lift code 1 forklift. In lift codes 4 through 6, the forklift operator sits down. To be able to differentiate between the latter three, lift code 4 forklifts have 3 wheels, while lift code 5 forklifts utilize cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts use 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. Electric hand trucks or class 3 forklifts can also fit into tighter spaces. Class 3 operator either walks behind the device or stands, depending on the specific kind of forklift. Lift models could lift loads and pallets several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Most commonly, electrical forklifts are utilized in warehouses rather than internal combustion or IC engine forklifts. There are disadvantages and advantages to using electrical models. To start with, they could last longer and are environmentally friendly. They are less expensive to run and cut down significantly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not operate well outdoors in bad climate and most 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.