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 various types of businesses. Forklift design is always going through improvement as technology advances.
The forklift was invented during the early part of the 20th century at the beginning of the industrial era in America. A company referred to as Clark made the first truck tracker during 1917. It was developed for use in Clark's very own plant, but when others saw it they were really impressed with this lifting machinery, even though it can just lift loads only a few centimeters off the ground. The following year, Clark started to promote the trucks widely.
The first kinds of forklifts were just the basics. By 1920, hydraulics was integrated into the design. In the year 1923, Yale Baker developed an electric powered model with a pinion and ratchet system which cost a lot less to operate. Pallets were developed as stackable surfaces on which to move materials. This permitted larger loads to be moved.
During WWII, more companies moved into the materials handling industry in order to deal with increased demand. Businesses, like for instance Hyster, went from producing other kinds of machines to producing lift trucks. The U.S. Armed Forces increased demand for forklifts for the reason of bringing 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 considerably over the course of their history. Industries all over the world require forklifts to increase production and lessen costs. Modern trucks are more productive and more comfortable and safer than their predecessors.