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