History of Forklifts
The technology of forklifts provides the capacity to easily transport bulky or heavy objects across short distances. Forklifts are usually utilized in the daily operations of different kinds of businesses. Forklift design is always going through improvement as technology advances.
The forklift was invented during the early part of the 20th century at the start of the industrial era within America. A company known as Clark manufactured the very first truck tracker during 1917. It was developed for use in Clark's very own plant, but when other people saw it they were impressed with this lifting equipment, even if it was only capable of carrying loads just a few centimeters off the ground. The following year, Clark began marketing the trucks widely.
The first kinds of forklifts were just the basics. By the year 1920, hydraulics was incorporated into the design. In the year 1923, Yale Baker developed an electric powered model with a pinion and ratchet system which cost a lot less to utilize. Pallets were developed as surfaces which are stackable on which to transport materials. This allowed bigger loads to be transported.
In order to deal with the increased demand, more companies moved into the material handling industry in WWII. Companies, such as Hyster, went from making other types of machines to manufacturing lift trucks. The United States Armed Forces increased demand for forklifts for the purpose of transporting military supplies to the frontlines. The demand for longer lasting electric models resulted in the development of forklifts that can last for eight hours.
In the course of their history, forklifts have significantly changed. Industries all around the globe require forklifts to increase production and lessen costs. Modern trucks are safer, more productive and more comfortable than their predecessors.