Forklift trucks, known as forklifts, are vehicles mainly used in the transport and storage industry. They are used to transport heavy loads and bulky goods, which are usually on pallets. In the following text, you will find out what types of forklifts there are and what to look out for when purchasing this type of vehicle.
Types of trolleys
A forklift truck is a wheeled vehicle equipped with its own motor drive. The basic criterion for the division of this type of equipment is precisely which drive it is equipped with. We can distinguish between:
- internal combustion engine drive,
- electric drive.
Internal combustion engine
Vehicles with internal combustion engines should not be used in enclosed spaces such as halls or warehouses due to their high CO2 emissions, so they are usually used in the open. Exceptions are cases where the forklift trucks are fitted with a filter to reduce exhaust emissions, in which case they may be allowed to work in enclosed spaces. Engine models diesel are distinguished by their low fuel consumption, which lowers their running costs, but this makes them slightly more expensive to purchase than others. Engine models petrol are cheaper than diesel, but have the disadvantage of quite high fuel consumption, making them not economical.
The situation is somewhat different for vehicles with an installed LPG. These types of models are valued for their versatility. The gas engine emits considerably less exhaust fumes than petrol or diesel, so with the right conditions, i.e. safety rules and adequate ventilation, it can be used both indoors and outdoors. The forklifts are powered by gas taken from a cylinder, the replacement of which is very simple and does not require unnecessary stops at work. An additional advantage of LPG-powered forklift trucks is their low operating costs and low noise level during operation.
Electric drive
Electric trolleys are mainly designed to work in confined spaces. The electrically-powered engine does not emit exhaust fumes, so working with such a device in an enclosed warehouse or hall is not dangerous, but the vehicle should comply with all safety standards and UDT regulations. This type of forklift is usually used in production halls or large-area shops, as the vehicle's small size and tight turning radius allow it to manoeuvre comfortably in tight spaces, and the operator has no problem carrying out work that requires greater precision. The cost of purchasing electrically powered vehicles is higher compared to other engines, but it is worth remembering that this type of equipment is very economical. Low running costs are an additional way to save money. An additional advantage of electric power is the low noise level of the equipment. However, despite their many advantages, electric motor models also have their disadvantages. One of these is the lack of continuous operation. The battery requires regular recharging, which can take between four and eight hours depending on the model.
Breakdown by type of leadership
Forklifts can be distinguished not only in terms of the drive they have. Another point to divide the vehicles is the way the forklift is steered. We can distinguish between the following types:
- remote, where the operator is outside the vehicle,
- platform, i.e. where the operator stands on a platform on a trolley,
- conducted by the operator,
- with a driver's seat where the operator is in the vehicle.
Breakdown by function
Another category by which the type of trolley can be distinguished is its use. It is useful to know their specifications, as this allows you to adapt the type of trolley to the work it is to perform. There are the following types of trolley on the market:
- Side,
- systemic,
- torsion,
- multidirectional,
- high storage,
- suspended,
- containerised,
- explosion-proof,
- lifting,
- off-road.
Safety and work
Each forklift model to be used should be equipped with a load capacity diagram, where the height of the loads to be lifted and the position of the centre of gravity on the forks will be taken into account. It is important to remember that when the load is lifted, the vehicle is unstable and the position of the centre of gravity must be kept under control at all times to prevent tipping over.
Loads should be carried with the forks more than 30 cm above the surface and the mast tilted towards the driver of the forklift.
With only a category B driving licence, you cannot drive a forklift. You need to acquire the relevant licence and a positive psychotechnical examination. According to current legislation, forklift licences are issued by technical supervision bodies.
Choosing a forklift is a relatively difficult task, not only because of the wide range of equipment itself, but also because of the way the vehicle is steered or the type of drive the forklift has. This is why it is so important to be clear about what the forklift will be used for in order to best match the device to your needs. It is also advisable to seek professional assistance from a specialist to help you make your decision.
Questions and Answers
How do you choose a forklift?
To begin with, it is necessary to decide what the trolley is to be used for, knowing the purpose of the trolley we can ask a professional to advise us on the purchase or look at the types of trolleys and choose the one that best suits our needs.
Can anyone drive a forklift?
A forklift can be driven by any person who is qualified to be an operator and who has a positive psychotechnical test.
Who issues the licence to operate forklifts?
Permission to operate forklifts is issued by technical inspection bodies.
