Forklift Truck Classification
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for roughly 100 years now. Even today, this type of machine is found in each and every warehouse operation all over the world.
The first forklifts were built because of manpower shortages that were caused by WWI. Businesses such as Clark and Yale & Town introduced the material handling machine which used powered lift tractors inside their factories. During the year 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machines and started selling them.
From a simple tractor with an attachment, the design of forklifts evolved in the 1920s, to a dedicated equipment equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more sophisticated with World War II. The forklift played a key role during this time in the handling of materials for different armies all around the world. It was also at this time that wooden pallets were introduced that solidified the need for the forklift in the material handling business.
Lift trucks gained momentum and continued to develop as soon as World War II ended. During the 1950s, forklifts which utilize batteries made an appearance. There were other more specialized forklift models introduced like for instance the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This model was made by the Raymond Corporation. In the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made within the electronic controls area. This made forklifts a lot more versatile and companies were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
Nowadays, the forklift could be powered by various fuel options such as electric battery, diesel, CNG or compressed natural gas, gasoline, LPG or liquid propane gas. The very first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It presently operates on lithium ion and diesel battery. This particular model utilizes 39% less fuel compared to existing models. Statistics show that its carbon dioxide emissions are around 14.6 tons less than those types of forklifts which are powered by IC or internal combustion engines.