History of Forklifts
Forklift technology provides the capacity to transport bulky or heavy items easily across short distances. Forklifts are usually used in the daily operations of various types of businesses. Forklift design is always going through improvement as technology advances.
The forklift was invented during the early 20th century at the start of the industrial period in America. A company called Clark manufactured the very first truck tracker during 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 equipment, even if it was just capable of lifting loads just a few centimeters off the ground. The following year, Clark began advertising the trucks widely.
The first kinds of forklifts were just the basics. By 1920, hydraulics was integrated into the design. During 1923, Yale Baker developed an electric powered model with a pinion and ratchet system that cost a lot less to operate. Pallets were developed as stackable surfaces on which to transport materials. This permitted larger loads to be transported.
To deal with the increased demand, more businesses moved into the material handling industry in World War II. Businesses, like for example Hyster, went from producing other kinds of equipment to producing 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 resulted in the development of forklifts that can last for eight hours.
During the course of their history, forklifts have considerably changed. Businesses around the world require forklifts to increase production and lower costs. Modern trucks are safer, more productive and more comfortable than their predecessors.