For companies that lift and transport heavy materials and merchandise regularly, there is probably no more effective or valuable machinery as the forklift. Forklifts are a common site in manufacturing plants, dockyards, lumber yards, distribution depots, shipping and receiving, agriculture, warehouses and other work places which has to deal with loads ranging from 3000 to 30,000 plus lbs.
Fork trucks are usually used to keep these operations working efficiently and smoothly. Though lift trucks are a huge investment, the amount of man hours they could save and the injuries they reduce from heavy lifting can make the purchase pay for itself eventually.
On the market nowadays are numerous of different models from a lot of different manufacturers. These various models are made specifically to deal with certain particular tasks. So as to make certain that you don't buy the wrong type of machine or purchase more than you require, it is very vital to evaluate the needs of your business and compare to the different units on the market. Speaking with a certified forklift distributor is a very great idea and so is doing your own research on the internet.
When looking at lift trucks by fuel type, the following types are available:
Electric: The electric forklift is run by lead-acid based rechargeable batteries. These heavy and large batteries can run a machinery for more than 5 or 6 straight hours. Electric models are ideal for indoor use due to their lack of emissions. They are a common choice for warehouses and retail spaces since they put zero emissions into the air where people are working and provide a fairly low cost per hour of operation.
Internal Combustion: The internal combustion engine works on a range of different fuels like CNG or compressed natural gas, others take diesel, liquid propane or LP or gasoline. In comparison to electric forklifts, the IC or internal combustion units accelerate faster, are easier to refuel and can 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 IC model but offer the quietness and zero emissions of electric forklifts.
Nissan's outdoor units will provide synchronized steering. This specific feature returns the wheel knob to the original position automatically after completing a turn. Outfitted with solid pneumatic tires to offer a comfortable ride both outdoors and indoors, these tires are more resistant to both wear and damage.