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