History of Forklifts
Forklift technology provides the capacity to transport bulky or heavy items easily across short distances. Forklifts are commonly used in the daily operations of various types of businesses. Forklift design is always undergoing improvement as technology advances.
The forklift was invented during the early 20th century at the start of the industrial period within America. A company known as Clark manufactured the first truck tracker in the year 1917. It was developed for use inside Clark's own plant, but when other people saw it they were impressed with this lifting equipment, even though it was just capable of carrying loads only a few centimeters off the ground. The next 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. During the year 1923, Yale Baker developed an electric powered model with a pinion and ratchet system that cost less to utilize. Pallets were developed as stackable surfaces on which to move supplies. This permitted larger loads to be transported.
During WWII, more businesses moved into the materials handling industry to deal with increased demand. Companies, like Hyster, went from manufacturing various kinds of machines to making lift trucks. The U.S. Armed Forces increased demand for forklifts for the reason of transporting military materials to the frontlines. The demand for longer lasting electric models led to the development of forklifts which can last for eight hours.
Forklifts have changed significantly over the course of their history. Businesses all around the globe need forklifts to lower costs and increase production. Modern trucks are more comfortable and more productive and safer than their predecessors.