Types of Forklifts and How to Operate Them

Types of Forklifts and How to Operate Them - In an industry there is a tool commonly used by operators to move goods, both incoming goods and outgoing goods. The tool used by the operator is called a forklift.

A forklift is a type of truck that has a fork in the front. Forklifts are used to lift, lower and move items that are too heavy or difficult to lift by manpower from one place to another.

Forklifts can be used indoors or outdoors. Forklifts are only operated for moving goods over short distances such as in the warehouse area or in the factory area.

Loading and unloading of goods carried out at the expedition warehouse, supermarket, factory or port usually uses a forklift as a tool.

Forklifts are very practical to use to move goods and productive processes, because forklifts can lift objects weighing up to hundreds of kilograms.

Types of Forklifts and Their Functions

Forklifts are available in various types to meet the material handling needs of different conditions. Here are the types of forklifts based on the fuel used and the types of forklifts based on their use.

Types of Forklifts Based on the Fuel

Based on the type of fuel used, forklifts are divided into three, namely:

1. Diesel Forklift

Diesel forklifts are forklifts of the highest quality. The main function of diesel forklifts is to transport goods and unload various manufactured goods. Diesel forklifts have higher performance than other types. However, diesel forklifts require less fuel so they are more fuel efficient.

Diesel forklifts are more suitable for use for outdoor activities. Diesel forklifts are capable of lifting goods weighing between 1 ton to 30 tons.

2. Gasoline Forklift

Gasoline forklifts have a lower capacity than diesel forklifts, which are only 10 tons. The lifting height of a gasoline forklift is also lower than that of a diesel forklift, which is only capable of lifting up to a maximum height of 2 meters while a diesel forklift is capable of lifting up to a height of 6 meters.

The main function of gasoline forklifts is to move and organize goods on high shelves. In addition, gasoline forklifts can also be used to carry out loading and unloading of goods. This gasoline forklift is also suitable for moving goods outdoors or outdoors.

3. Electric Forklift

An electric forklift is a type of forklift that uses electric power from a battery as its propulsion so that it does not emit exhaust gases. Electric forklifts are very suitable for indoor work.

Electric forklifts have a large carrying capacity, starting from 8 tons with a lifting height of up to 6 meters, the same as diesel forklifts.

Electric forklifts are commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry.

Types of Forklifts Based on Their Use

Based on their use, forklifts are divided into several types, namely:

1. Warehouse Forklift

Warehouse forklift is a type of forklift that is often used in warehousing. Warehouse forklifts are used to load and unload pallets or materials in a balanced manner. Warehouse forklifts can also be used to transport loads weighing one to two tons. There are several types of warehose forklifts used in warehousing, including:

a. Side Loader Forklift

Side loader forklifts are warehouse forklifts that can be found in manufacturing and steel service centers with heavy and thick loads.

The operator operating the side loader forklift stands in the cab or side compartment. Because the loading and unloading of objects is done on the side and operated from the side, the side loader forklift is easier to drive when next to the rack. Its purpose is to load and unload cargo or material without having to turn.

b. Counterbalance Forklift

Counterbalance forklift is a type of forklift that has a weight on the back to compensate for the weight of the material being carried. Counterbalance forklifts do not have arm extensions so they have the ability to move directly to the load being lifted.

2. Forklift Reach Truck

The reach truck has a capacity of 2 tons and is capable of lifting goods up to 11 meters high. The main function of the reach truck is to move large items.

The reach truck has a slim body so that the reach truck can maneuver in a fairly narrow place. With such advantages, rech trucks are very suitable for use in warehouses or warehouses with narrow areas.

3. Telehandler Forklift

Telehandler forklifts are also known as telescopic forklifts. Forklift telehandlers have an extendable boom and arm making it like a combination crane and forklift. The forklift telehandler has twin forks attached to the arm. Telehandler forklifts have a capacity of up to 5500 pounds and a height of up to 19 feet in the air. Thus, forklift telehandlers are suitable for reaching high places.

How to Use Forklift

To operate a special vehicle such as a forklift, a prospective forklift operator must understand how to operate a forklift properly. Misoperation of forklifts can pose a risk to the safety of those around them, even the forklift operators themselves. Here's how to operate a forklift properly.

1. Before Use, Do a First Check on the Condition of the Forklift

Every operator who will use a forklift must first check the condition of the forklift. Inspections were carried out on various components such as poles, steering, brakes, tires and other important components. If there is an abnormal condition in the component being checked, the component must be repaired first and ensure that the component is completely safe before use.

2. Use PPE Equipment (Personal Protective Equipment)

PPE is mandatory equipment that must be used by forklift operators. PPE equipment such as jackets, shoes and helmets are PPE that must be used by forklift operators. The PPE equipment used must fit the forklift operator's body, not too big and not too small.

3. Operators Must Be Trained

Forklifts should not be operated by just anyone. Only operators who have special abilities, are trained and have a Forklift Operational License (SIO) are allowed to operate forklifts.

4. Pay attention to the conditions and circumstances around the forklift

Operators who operate forklifts must pay attention to the environment and conditions around which the forklift is operated. Each operator needs to follow the instructions provided. Some things that must be considered are the floor load and a safe height in order to help reduce errors caused by the height of the pole or tire.

5. Drive the Forklift Comfortably and Safely

The forklift operator's sitting position must be correct and in a comfortable position so that the forklift operator can more easily reach all controls on the equipment being operated. In addition, forklift operators must also install seat belts before operating the forklift.

Driving a forklift must also be done safely, must not be driven too fast or other dangerous actions so as not to endanger the life of the operator and other people.

Those are the types of forklifts and how to use them that can be conveyed on this occasion. May be useful.