Whether you have considered what are the different types of forklift truck, and what do they do? If you don’t quite understand the differences between forklift trucks, read on below as we talk you through the major forklift truck types, along with their primary uses.
Counterbalance Forklift Trucks
Counterbalance forklift trucks are the most common type of forklift truck, and the type most people instinctively think of when thinking of forklifts.
On counterbalance trucks, the forks protrude from the front of the machine, with no outrigger legs or arms, meaning the truck can be driven up to the exact location of the load or racking. This means that no reach facility is required, and lends itself to straightforward operation.
Counterbalance machines are available as electric, gas or diesel powered. Many have sideshifts, a mast tilt facility, and often driver cabs.
As the name suggests, counterbalance trucks operate a counterbalance weight design, with a weight at the rear of the truck off-setting the load to be lifted at the front. Electric counterbalance trucks are able to operate with a smaller counterweight as the battery serves as ballast as well as a source of power.
3 Wheel Counterbalance Forklift Trucks
3 wheel counterbalance forklifts work to the same premise as regular counterbalance machines however the inclusion of a single drive wheel in the centre of the rear of the machine ensures maximum manoeuvrability.
3 wheel counterbalance trucks are perfect for use in applications where space is limited due to their tight turning circles and excellent manoeuvrability. They are also ideally suited to applications that require inside and outside use and racking loading. The combination of counterbalance under-clearance and tight manoeuvrability ensures maximum productivity.
Powered Pallet Trucks
Powered pallet trucks operate to a very similar principle as hand pallet trucks. The operator slides the forks into the pallet to allow for load bearing. On a powered pallet truck however, the lifting of the load, and truck movement, is powered by the electric motor within the machine.
Typically, there is a ‘paddle’ control to select forward or reverse direction, and button control to raise or lower the forks.
As with all electric powered trucks, the batteries contained within need to be charged. Often, with a powered pallet truck, the truck has an integral charger meaning that it can be plugged straight into the mains without the need for a stand-alone charger.
Powered pallet trucks operate best on flat and smooth surfaces.
Established in 1973, Tailift Forklift trucks are sold to more than 50 countries around the world, and enjoy the considerable success in several markets. Tailift manufactures full series of materials handling machines include ICE counterbalance trucks, electric counterbalance trucks, pallet trucks, electric stacker, reach truck, electric towing tractors and VNA trucks. If you are interested in counterbalance truck series or other forklifts, welcome to visit Tailift’s website to learn more details and feel free to contact with us.
Article Source: http://www.bendigomitchell.com/kb/forklift-truck-types