Warehouse Forklift Types
The kind of multi-purpose machine that can be utilized both outdoors and indoors are forklifts. They are capable of functioning 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 surfaces that are flat for most of their work scopes.
Forklifts have different classes. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized inside warehouses and higher classes are used more frequently in outdoor applications and are considered to be sturdier.
Classes of Forklifts
Of the 7 classes of forklifts, there are 4 kinds of warehouse forklifts. 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 as they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion or IC engine. These types of forklifts can be utilized indoors but because of the fumes they make, are suitable for open air warehouse operation. You would rarely find these types of forklifts in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Forklifts which belong to Class 1 can be divided into four 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 use cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts have pneumatic tires.
Narrow aisle forklifts are a term for class 2 forklifts. These models are utilized in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are perfect for spaces which are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Electric hand trucks or class 3 forklifts can fit into tighter spaces also. The operator for class 3 either stands or walks behind the machine, depending on the specific kind of forklift. Lift models are able to lift pallets and loads a few feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Most commonly, electrical forklifts are used inside warehouses rather than IC or internal combustion engine forklifts. There are some advantages and disadvantages to electrical models. To start with, they are environmentally friendly and can last longer. They cost less to operate and cut down greatly on noise pollution. On the downside, they do not operate well outdoors in bad weather, are more expensive up front and most models require charging every 6 hours. For obvious reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great choice for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.