History of Forklifts
Forklift technology provides the capacity to move heavy or bulky things easily across short distances. Forklifts are normally utilized in the daily operations of various kinds of businesses. Forklift design is always going through improvement as technology advances.
The forklift was invented during the early 20th century at the beginning of the industrial era within America. A company called Clark manufactured the first truck tracker in the year 1917. It was developed for use within Clark's own plant, but when others saw it they were impressed with this lifting equipment, even if it was only capable of lifting loads just a few centimeters off the ground. The next year, Clark started to promote the trucks widely.
The first types of forklifts were only the basics. By 1920, hydraulics was incorporated into the design. In 1923, Yale Baker developed an electric powered model with a pinion and ratchet system which cost less to utilize. Pallets were developed as stackable surfaces on which to move materials. This permitted bigger loads to be moved.
To be able to deal with the increased demand, more businesses moved into the material handling industry in World War II. Companies, such as Hyster, went from making various kinds of machinery to producing lift trucks. The U.S. Armed Forces increased demand for forklifts for the reason of bringing military supplies to the frontlines. The demand for longer lasting electric models led to the development of forklifts which could last for eight hours.
Forklifts have changed considerably through the course of their history. Industries around the world require forklifts to increase production and lower costs. Modern trucks are safer, more comfortable and more productive than their predecessors.