Narrow aisle forklifts
Usually utilized within warehouse applications is the Narrow Aisle Forklift. These types of forklifts are important machines in the industry since their excellent maneuverability and small size enable warehouses to use space to maximum storing capacity. They can easily go around aisles that are 1.8 meters wide, whereas typical lift trucks need at least 3.4 meters of aisle width.
This particular kind of forklift is sub-categorized as "narrow aisle forklifts" and "very narrow aisle forklifts". The former need 2.4 meters - 3 meters in aisle width, whilst the second can function in a 1.8 meters wide space.
The design of the narrow aisle forklift features forks that are positioned at right angles to the truck body. The trucks do not have to face the shelves, but instead drive straight down the aisle picking up loads to the side. This design feature is the key to their suitability for limited spaces.
Some very narrow aisle forklifts come with optical or wire guidance systems that make certain that the forklift moves in a straight line down the aisle, which leaves the operator free to concentrate on load picking and placement.
The cushion tires that come with these kinds of lifts are made of solid rubber. The hard tires perform well on concrete floors and smooth, paved surfaces. Narrow aisle forklifts have electric motors suited for applications in indoor environments. Propane-powered versions are available as well.