For businesses which raise and move heavy supplies and goods regularly, there is probably no more effective or valuable machinery as the forklift. Forklifts are a popular site in dockyards, manufacturing plants, distribution depots, lumber yards, shipping and receiving, agriculture, warehouses and other work places which has to deal with loads ranging from 3000 to 30,000 plus pounds.
Fork trucks are normally used to keep these operations running smoothly and efficiently. Though forklifts are a big investment, the amount of man hours they can save and the injuries they reduce from heavy lifting could make the purchase pay for itself in little time.
There are many different models and manufacturers of forklifts available on the market. Various units are made to accomplish various tasks. So as to make certain that you don't purchase more than you need or the wrong kind of machinery, it is very vital to evaluate your company's requirements and compare to the different units offered on the market. Talking to a certified forklift distributor is a good idea and so is doing your own research on the internet.
When looking at lift trucks by the kind of fuel, the following kinds are available:
Electric: Electric lift trucks utilize large, heavy, rechargeable batteries that are lead-acid based. These batteries can run for approximately 5 or 6 hours straight. Electric units are ideal for indoor use due to their lack of emissions. They are a popular choice for warehouses and retail spaces because they provide a fairly low cost per hour of operation and put zero emissions into the air where individuals are working.
Internal Combustion: The IC engine works on a variety of different fuels like compressed natural gas or CNG, others take diesel, LP or liquid propane or gasoline. In comparison to electric forklifts, the internal combustion or IC units are easier to refuel, accelerate faster and can carry heavier loads. These models are normally more pricey to use than their electric counterparts.
Fuel Cell: The newest in forklift technology is the Hydrogen fuel cell. These models offer the quietness and zero emissions of electric forklifts but provide the fast refueling capability of an IC unit.
There are a variety of outdoor Nissan units that offer synchronized steering. This feature returns the wheel knob to the original position automatically after completing a turn. Equipped with solid pneumatic tires to offer a comfortable ride both indoors and outdoors, these tires are more resistant to damage and wear.