Kinds of Warehouse Forklifts
The type of multi-purpose machinery which can 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 only needs to be utilized on flat surfaces for most of their work scopes.
There are different classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are used in warehouses and higher classes are considered to be sturdier and utilized more often in outdoor applications.
Classes of Forklifts
Of the 7 classes of forklifts, there are 4 types of warehouse forklifts. The classes 5 to 7 usually describe forklifts that operate outside on rough surfaces or are utilized to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are great for indoor application as they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion or IC engine. These models can be used indoors but due to the fumes they make, are suitable for open air warehouse operation. You will rarely find these kinds of forklifts in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Class 1 forklifts could be broken down into 4 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. In order 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.
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 very 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 walks behind the machine or stands, depending on the particular type of forklift. Lift models could raise loads and pallets several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Usually, electrical forklifts are used inside warehouses as opposed to IC or internal combustion engine forklifts. There are advantages and disadvantages to using electrical models. For start, they are environmentally friendly and can last longer. They cost less to run 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 choice for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.