Warehouse Forklift Types
The type of multi-purpose equipment that could be used both indoors and outdoors are forklifts. They are capable of working on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial equipment found in warehouses or on construction sites. Any warehouse forklift normally only has to be utilized on flat surfaces for most of their work scopes.
There are various classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are used inside warehouses and higher classes are utilized more frequently in outdoor applications and are considered to be sturdier.
Classes of Forklifts
There are 4 kinds of warehouse forklift types among the 7 forklift classes. The classes 5 to 7 normally describe forklifts which are used to tow heavy loads or operate outside on rough surfaces. Classes 1 to 3 are great for indoor application since they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion power. These models are able to be used indoors but due to the fumes they make, are better suited for open air warehouse applications. You would seldom find these models in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Class 1 forklifts can 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, 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 use cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts utilize pneumatic tires.
Narrow aisle forklifts are a term for class 2 forklifts. These kinds of forklifts are operated by a standing rider and used in tight spaces. 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. The operator for class 3 either stands or walks behind the device, depending on the specific model. Lift models are able to raise loads and pallets a few feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Rather than utilizing IC or internal combustion engine forklifts, electric forklifts are usually used in warehouses. There are several disadvantages and advantages to electrical models. To start with, they are environmentally friendly and can last longer. They are less expensive to operate and cut down significantly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not operate well outdoors in bad weather and nearly all models require charging every 6 hours. For obvious reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great option for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.