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An Introduction To Forklifts
By Thomas Morva
Nearly every warehouse has a forklift – a tool capable of lifting thousands of pounds. A forklift is a vehicle similar to a small truck that has two metal forks on the front used to lift cargo. The forklift operator drives the forklift forward until the forks push under the cargo, and can then lift the cargo several feet in the air by operating the forks. The forks, also known as blades or tines, are usually made out of steel and can lift up to a few tons.
Forklifts are either powered by gasoline, propane, or electricity. Electric forklifts rely on batteries to operate. Gasoline or propane forklifts are sometimes stronger or faster than electric forklifts, but they are more difficult to maintain, and fuel can be costly. Electric forklifts are great for warehouse use because they do not give off noxious fumes like gas powered machines do.
Forklifts are most often used in warehouses, but some are meant to be used outdoors. The vast majority of rough terrain forklifts operate on gasoline, but some use diesel or natural gas. Rough terrain forklifts have the highest lifting capacity of all forklifts and heavy duty tires (like those found on trucks), making it possible to drive them on uneven surfaces outdoors.
It is important for forklift operators to follow all safety precautions when using a forklift. Drivers should be careful not to exceed the forklift's weight capacity. Forklift operators also need to be able to handle forklift's rear wheel steering. Driving a forklift is similar to driving a car in reverse, meaning that the driver must constantly steer to keep it moving in a straight line. The driver must be aware of the forklift's ever-changing center of gravity and avoid making any quick sharp turns or going too fast. It is advisable that anyone who operates a forklift be fully trained and licensed.
Forklifts have revolutionized warehouse work. They made it possible for one person to move thousands of pounds at once. Well-maintained and safely operated forklifts make lifting and transporting cargo infinitely easier. About the Author Forklifts Info provides detailed information about forklifts, including rough terrain and truck-mounted forklifts, used forklifts, and forklifts for sale, as well as forklift parts, accessories, operators, and safety. Forklifts Info is affiliated with Original Content Web.
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Some other articles by Thomas Morva | A Look at Forklift Parts There are several components that all forklifts have in common. These forklift parts are vital to the operation of the equipment. Forks, brake components, and transmissions are some of the parts that ...
The Benefits of Truck-mounted Forklifts Truck mounted forklifts can make transportation of goods and materials much easier. A truck mounted forklift insures that the truck driver won't have to waste valuable time waiting for someone to unload the cargo once ...
Forklift Safety While forklifts make warehouse work much easier, they can be dangerous, and even fatal, if they are used incorrectly. The operator ...
The Benefits of Rough Terrain Forklifts Rough terrain forklifts are perfect for a variety of outdoor construction and loading needs. A rough terrain forklift is often used to carry materials like lumber, ...
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