History of Forklifts
Forklift technology provides the capacity to transport heavy or bulky things easily across short distances. Forklifts are normally used in the every day operations of different kinds of businesses. Forklift design is always going through improvement as technology advances.
In the early 20th century, at the beginning of the industrial period in America, the forklift was invented. A company known as Clark made the first truck tracker in the year 1917. It was developed for use inside Clark's very own plant, but when other people saw it they were really impressed with this lifting machine, even if it was only capable of lifting loads a few centimeters off the ground. The next year, Clark began marketing the trucks widely.
The early models were extremely basic. By 1920, hydraulics was integrated 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 surfaces which are stackable on which to transport supplies. This allowed larger loads to be moved.
To deal with the increased demand, more companies moved into the material handling industry in WWII. Companies, like for instance Hyster, went from producing other kinds of machines to manufacturing lift trucks. The United States Armed Forces increased demand for forklifts for the reason of transporting military supplies to the frontlines. The demand for longer lasting electric models led to the development of forklifts that could last for eight hours.
During the course of their history, forklifts have significantly changed. Businesses around the world need forklifts to increase production and lower expenses. Modern trucks are safer, more productive and more comfortable than their predecessors.