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