You'll notice few pieces of heavy machinery that are as valuable or effective as a lift truck for businesses and companies that need to move heavy supplies and things. Forklifts are a popular site in manufacturing plants, dockyards, distribution depots, lumber yards, agriculture, warehouses, shipping and receiving and other work places which has to handle loads ranging from 3000 to 30,000 plus pounds.
The lift truck is utilized most often to keep the flow of operations working as efficiently and smoothly as possible. Though forklifts are a large investment, the injuries they reduce from heavy lifting and the amount of man hours they can save could make the purchase pay for itself eventually.
On the market today are a lot of different units from many different manufacturers. These different models are made specially to deal with certain specific jobs. In order to make sure that you don't purchase the wrong type of machine or buy more than you need, it is essential to evaluate the needs of your company and compare to the different models offered on the market. Speaking with a authorized forklift distributor is a great idea and so is doing your own research online.
When looking at forklifts by fuel type, the following kinds are available:
Electric: Electric lift trucks use heavy, large, rechargeable batteries which are lead-acid based. These batteries are able to run for roughly 5 or 6 hours straight. Electric units are great for indoor use due to their lack of emissions. They are a common choice for warehouses and retail spaces because they provide a relatively low cost per hour of operation and put zero emissions into the air where individuals are working.
Internal Combustion: Internal combustion lift trucks work with a range of fuels. Some models take compressed natural gas or CNG, others take diesel, liquid propane or LP or gasoline. When compared to electric forklifts, the internal combustion or IC units can carry heavier loads, accelerate faster and are easier to refuel. These models are normally more expensive to use than their electric counterparts.
Fuel Cell: Hydrogen fuel cell lift trucks are the newest in lift truck technology. These models provide the fast refueling capability of an IC unit but offer the zero emissions and quietness of electric lift trucks.
There are a variety of outdoor Nissan models which offer synchronized steering. This feature automatically returns the wheel knob to the original position following completing a turn. Equipped with solid pneumatic tires to offer a comfortable ride both indoors and outdoors, these tires are more resistant to both wear and damage.