Forklifts: The Early Days
The Truck tractor, invented in 1917, is generally regarded as the very first
forklift. The machine, basically a tractor with an attachment, bore only a
minor resemblance to modern lift trucks. But by the 1920’s, lift truck
manufacturers added hydraulics and a vertical lifting mast.
Forklifts in the 1950’s and 1960’s
By the 1950’s and 1960’s, forklifts could lift loads up to 50 feet, and
additional operator safety features were added. Specialized forklifts, such as
those designed to work in narrow-aisles became available along with
battery-powered lift trucks.
The modern forklift can be powered by compressed natural gas (CNG), diesel,
an electric battery, gasoline, or liquid propane (LPG). Lift trucks also use
different tires: cushion for primarily indoor use, and pneumatic for outdoor
applications. To organize all of these options, forklifts are classified into one
of seven different types.
A forklift’s class is based on fuel type and how the lift is used. Each forklift
operator must be certified to use whatever class of forklift that they operate.
Class 1 - Electric Motor Rider Trucks
Class 2 - Electric Motor Narrow Aisle Trucks
Class 3 - Electric Motor Hand Trucks/Hand-Rider Trucks
Class 4 - Internal Combustion Engine Trucks - Cushion Tires
Class 5 - Internal Combustion Engine Trucks - Pneumatic Tires
Class 6 - Electric and Internal Combustion Engine Tractors
Class 7 - Rough Terrain Forklift Trucks