A forklift is an electrically powered industrial truck utilized to lift and transport materials over short to medium distances. The forklift was invented in the late 20th century by different companies, such as Clark, that made hoists, and Yale & Towne Manufacturing Company, that produced forklifts. Before these companies acquired the technology and manufacturing techniques of forklifts, they simply made use of manpower and machines to move heavy loads around the factory floor. With the advent of forklifts, factories could now move heavier loads without the need for workers, reducing costs and the possibility of work-related accidents. You can hire forklifts from Plant Hire Leicester companies such as Harborough Hire so you don’t have to find a large capital outlay to purchase one.
Today, forklifts are still utilized by many major companies as well as small factories and warehouses. Many forklift trucks come in both diesel-powered and pneumatic tires, meaning that they can be moved in either terrain. The gas or diesel-powered forklifts provide the power needed to move the load, while pneumatic tyres give the truck the ability to use power efficiently and for longer periods of time. Although forklifts are known for their ability to move heavy loads, there are some forklift trucks that can be modified to carry other equipment, such as cable and pulley systems, as well as fabricate parts and complete projects. One of the most common modifications for forklifts is their hydraulic system, which enables the forklift trucks to perform multiple tasks.
Aside from the hydraulic system, forklifts also come with pneumatic tires for increased traction on dirt, mud, snow, and ice. The hydraulic system can be enhanced through the addition of internal combustion engines that allow the truck to run at a higher engine efficiency. However, internal combustion trucks have been associated with fires, so it is always advisable to check if a forklift truck is equipped with safety features such as fire extinguishers, spark plugs, exhaust system, air bags, and automatic safety locks.