Since its introduction in the early 1920s, the forklift has become an invaluable piece of machinery found in many warehousing and industrial operations. Clark, among the pioneers of the very first lift truck, has grown to become a leader in the material handling business and still remains a top supplier. Other popular names in the manufacturing of these equipment comprise: Hyster, Nissan, Yale Toyota, Mitsubishi and Cat.
The Hyster type of lift truck has become one of the industries most popular manufacturers. In fact, in some regions, the word "Hyster" is synonymous with forklift. Other common names for this industrial lifting equipment comprise: high/low, lift truck, jitney, stacker truck and fork truck.
It was in the 19th century that the machine ancestors of the forklift was first developed. At this time, battery-powered, small models were made for the purpose of moving traveler's baggage at the Altoona train station in Pennsylvania. During WWI, several different kinds were made in England particularly for use in the material handling industry. These equipment evolved as a solution to the manpower shortage at that time.
Today's machines come in many sizes and configurations. Sod loaders are big truck-mounted forklift models and several of the larger machinery, whereas the smaller machines consist of hand truck units. There are also a line of automated versions known as forklift automated guided vehicles that are practically robotic in nature. These models were developed to improve production and as a way of lowering operational expenses.
Attachments have been made to fit onto lots of common lift trucks, giving them the capability of performing a wider selection of jobs. The motors can be IC or internal combustion models, running on gasoline, propane or diesel, or there are battery operated options which need regular charging. Standard warehouse units will normally be rated to raise between approximately 1 and 5 tons.
The forklift has become a priceless component within the material handling industry. Thousands of these models are utilized on a daily basis throughout the world to complete jobs which used to need much more man-power. Operators must take stringent training courses so as to operate these heavy machinery safely and legally. Many workers have longer careers now and better overall health due to their not having to raise items manually anymore since the forklifts could handle those situations now instead.