History of Forklifts
The technology of forklifts provides the capacity to easily move bulky or heavy items across short distances. Forklifts are commonly utilized in the every day operations of different kinds of businesses. Forklift design is always going through improvement as technology advances.
In the early part of the 20th century, at the beginning of the industrial period within America, the forklift was invented. A company known as Clark made the very first truck tracker in 1917. It was developed for use within Clark's own plant, but when other people saw it they were impressed with this lifting equipment, even though it could just raise loads just a few centimeters off the ground. The next year, Clark started advertising the trucks widely.
The early models were extremely basic. By 1920, hydraulics was incorporated 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 supplies. This allowed larger loads to be moved.
To be able to handle the increased demand, more businesses moved into the material handling industry during World War II. Companies, like Hyster, went from making other kinds of machinery to manufacturing lift trucks. The U.S. Armed Forces increased demand for forklifts for the purpose of transporting military supplies to the frontlines. The demand for longer lasting electric models resulted in the development of forklifts which can last for eight hours.
Forklifts have changed significantly over the course of their history. Industries all over the globe need forklifts to reduce costs and increase production. Modern trucks are more comfortable and more productive and safer than their predecessors.