Warehouse Forklift Types
The type of multi-purpose equipment that can be used both indoors and outdoors are forklifts. They are capable of working on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial machines found on construction sites or in warehouses. Any warehouse forklift usually just needs to be used on flat surfaces for the majority of their work scopes.
There are various classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized in warehouses and higher classes are used more frequently in outdoor applications and are considered to be sturdier.
Classes of Forklifts
Among 7 classes of forklifts, there are 4 types of warehouse forklifts. The classes 5 to 7 typically describe forklifts that are utilized to tow heavy loads or operate outside on rough surfaces. Classes 1 to 3 are great for indoor application since they use electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts depend on internal combustion engine. These kinds of forklifts are able to be used indoors but due to the fumes they create, are suitable for open air warehouse operation. You will rarely find these kinds of forklifts in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Forklifts that belong to Class 1 could be divided into four lift codes or subcategories. The lift codes are described as six, five, four and one. The operator of the forklift 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 utilize pneumatic tires.
Narrow aisle forklifts are a term for class 2 forklifts. These kinds of forklifts are used in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are perfect for spaces that are very small for a sit-down rider forklift. Class 3 forklifts or electric hand trucks can also fit into tighter spaces. The operator for class 3 either stands or walks behind the device, depending on the specific kind of forklift. Lift models can raise pallets and loads a few feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Instead of using IC or internal combustion engine forklifts, electric forklifts are commonly utilized in warehouses. There are advantages and disadvantages to using electrical models. To begin with, they could last longer and are environmentally friendly. They cost less to operate and cut down significantly on noise pollution. On the downside, they do not operate well outdoors in bad climate, are more expensive up front and most models require charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great alternative for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.