Forklifts
In construction, material handling, warehousing and manufacturing operation, forklifts are commonly used to transport and lift 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 numerous kinds of forklifts, the forklift has a protected cab or seat for the driver. Fork trucks include features like for instance backup alarms, and cabs and are also motorized. Some models of forklifts are counterbalanced so as to prevent the vehicle from tipping over. Other kinds of forklifts come equipped with safety rails, or a rotating element like for example a turntable or a hand rail.
Other specifications which are essential to consider when choosing a forklift include the lift capacity and stroke. Lift capacity is defined as the maximum, supportable load or force. 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 that 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 for fork trucks and forklifts: pneumatic and solid. The cushion or solid tires need less maintenance than pneumatic tires and do not easily puncture. Pneumatic or air-inflated tires provide load cushioning and great drive traction. At the end of the day, solid or cushion tires offer less shock absorption.
Class VII forklifts are usually designed for use on rough terrain. These machines are usually utilized in construction, agriculture and in logging environments. Last of all, Class VIII forklifts include all personnel and burden carriers. Dual Fuel lift trucks frequently fit in this class.