Forklifts
In material handling, construction, manufacturing and warehousing operation, forklifts are normally used to transport and lift palletized loads. With manual-drive forklifts, the travel or load movement is either manually powered or walk-behind. Motorized drive forklifts have a motorized drive. In various models, the forklift has a protected cab or seat for the operator. Fork trucks include features like backup alarms, and cabs and are additionally motorized. Some types of forklifts are counterbalanced in order to prevent the vehicle from turning over. Other models are available with safety rails, or a rotating element like a hand rail or a turntable.
Other factors that are essential to consider when selecting a forklift are the stroke and lift capacity. Lift capacity is defined as the maximum, supportable force or load. Stroke is defined as the difference between fully lowered and completely raised lift positions.
The type of fuel and the type of tire are also other key specifications which should be considered. The available fuel choices are: liquid propane or LP, natural gas, electricity, CNG or compressed natural gas, propane, diesel or gasoline.
There are two basic types of tires used for forklifts and fork trucks: pneumatic and solid. The solid or cushion tires need less maintenance compared to pneumatic tires and do not easily puncture. Pneumatic or air-inflated tires provide great drive traction and load-cushioning. At the end of the day, solid or cushion tires provide less shock absorption.
Generally utilized on rough terrain are Class VII forklifts. These machinery are normally used in construction, agriculture and in logging environments. Last of all, Class VIII forklifts include all burden and personnel carriers. Dual Fuel lift trucks frequently fit in this class.