For businesses which lift and move heavy supplies and goods on a regular basis, there is probably no more valuable or effective equipment as the lift truck. Lift trucks are a common site in distribution depots, lumber yards, dockyards, manufacturing plants, agriculture, warehouses, shipping and receiving and other work places that has to deal with loads ranging from 3000 to 30,000 plus pounds.
Fork trucks are commonly used to keep these operations working efficiently and smoothly. Though forklifts are a big investment, the amount of man hours they could save and the injuries they reduce from heavy lifting could make the purchase pay for itself in little time.
There are many different units and manufacturers of lift trucks on the market. Various models are designed to accomplish various tasks. In order to make sure that you don't buy the wrong type of machine or buy more than you need, it is essential to assess the requirements of your business and compare to the various models offered on the market. Talking to a licensed forklift distributor is a very great idea and so is doing your own research on the World Wide Web.
When looking at lift trucks by the kind of fuel, the following types are available:
Electric: Electric forklifts use heavy, large, rechargeable batteries which are lead-acid based. These batteries are able to run for around 5 or 6 hours straight. Electric units are ideal for indoor use because of their lack of emissions. They are a popular alternative for warehouses and retail spaces since they put zero emissions into the air where individuals are working and provide a fairly low cost per hour of operation.
Internal Combustion: The IC engine operates on a variety of different fuels such as compressed natural gas or CNG, others take diesel, liquid propane or LP or gasoline. In comparison to electric forklifts, the internal combustion or IC units are easier to refuel, accelerate faster and could carry heavier loads. These units are usually more pricey to operate than their electric counterparts.
Fuel Cell: The latest in lift truck technology is the Hydrogen fuel cell. These models provide the fast refueling capability of an internal combustion unit but offer the zero emissions and quietness of electric lift trucks.
Nissan's outdoor units will offer synchronized steering. This specific feature returns the wheel knob to the original position automatically following 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.