History of Forklifts
Forklift technology provides the capacity to move heavy or bulky objects easily across short distances. Forklifts are commonly used in the daily operations of various types of businesses. Forklift design is always going through improvement as technology advances.
In the early part of the 20th century, at the start of the industrial era within America, the forklift was invented. A company referred to as Clark manufactured the very first truck tracker during the year 1917. It was developed for use in Clark's very own plant, but when others saw it they were very impressed with this lifting equipment, even if it was just capable of carrying loads only a few centimeters off the ground. The next year, Clark began to sell the trucks widely.
The early models were extremely basic. By the year 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 use. Pallets were developed as surfaces which are stackable on which to move materials. This allowed larger loads to be transported.
During WWII, more businesses moved into the materials handling sector to be able to deal with increased demand. Companies, like Hyster, went from manufacturing various types of equipment 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 that could last for eight hours.
Forklifts have changed considerably through the course of their history. Businesses all around the globe require forklifts to increase production and lessen costs. Modern trucks are more productive and more comfortable and safer compared to their predecessors.