History of Forklifts
The technology of forklifts provides the capacity to easily transport heavy or bulky things across short distances. Forklifts are normally utilized in the every day 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 in America, the forklift was invented. A company called Clark manufactured the very first truck tracker during the year 1917. It was developed for use in Clark's own plant, but when others saw it they were very impressed with this lifting machine, even though it could only lift loads just a few centimeters off the ground. The next year, Clark started to promote the trucks widely.
The first types 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 that cost a lot less to utilize. Pallets were developed as stackable surfaces on which to transport materials. This allowed bigger loads to be moved.
In order to deal with the increased demand, more companies moved into the material handling industry during WWII. Companies, like Hyster, went from producing various kinds of machines to manufacturing lift trucks. The U.S. Armed Forces increased demand for forklifts for the reason of transporting military supplies to the frontlines. The demand for longer lasting electric models resulted in the development of forklifts which could last for eight hours.
Forklifts have changed significantly over the course of their history. Businesses around the globe require forklifts to lessen expenses and increase production. Modern trucks are more comfortable and more productive and safer than their predecessors.