For businesses which raise and move heavy supplies and goods on a regular basis, there is probably no more valuable or effective equipment as the lift truck. Forklifts are a popular site in distribution depots, lumber yards, dockyards, manufacturing plants, shipping and receiving, agriculture, warehouses and other work places that require to deal with loads ranging from 3000 to 30,000 plus lbs.
Fork trucks are usually used to keep these operations running efficiently and smoothly. Even if forklifts are a huge investment, the injuries they reduce from heavy lifting and the amount of man hours they can save can make the purchase pay for itself in little time.
Available on the market these days are a lot of different models from a lot of different manufacturers. These different models are made particularly to handle some specific jobs. So as to make sure that you don't buy the wrong kind of equipment or purchase more than you require, it is important to assess your company's requirements and compare to the various units 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 lift trucks by the kind of fuel, the following types are available:
Electric: Electric forklifts utilize large, heavy, rechargeable batteries that are lead-acid based. These batteries could run for about 5 or 6 hours straight. Electric units are ideal for indoor use because of their lack of emissions. They are a popular option for retail spaces and warehouses because they provide a fairly low cost per hour of operation and put zero emissions into the air where people are working.
Internal Combustion: The IC engine operates on a variety of different fuels such as compressed natural gas or CNG, others take diesel, LP or liquid propane or gasoline. When compared to electric forklifts, the IC or internal combustion models can carry heavier loads, accelerate faster and are easier to refuel. These models are normally more pricey to operate than their electric counterparts.
Fuel Cell: Hydrogen fuel cell lift trucks are the newest in lift truck technology. These units offer the zero emissions and quietness of electric lift trucks but provide the fast refueling capability of an IC model.
Nissan's outdoor units would provide synchronized steering. This specific feature automatically returns the wheel knob to the original position 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.