History of Forklifts
The technology of forklifts provides the capacity to easily move heavy or bulky items across short distances. Forklifts are normally used in the daily operations of various types of businesses. Forklift design is always undergoing improvement as technology advances.
The forklift was invented during the early part of the 20th century at the beginning of the industrial period in America. A company known as Clark manufactured the very first truck tracker during 1917. It was developed for use in Clark's own plant, but when other people saw it they were impressed with this lifting machine, even though it was just capable of lifting loads a few centimeters off the ground. The following year, Clark started to promote the trucks widely.
The first kinds of forklifts were only the basics. By the year 1920, hydraulics was integrated into the design. In 1923, Yale Baker developed an electric powered model with a ratchet and pinion system which cost a lot less to operate. Pallets were developed as stackable surfaces on which to move materials. This permitted bigger loads to be transported.
In order to deal with the increased demand, more businesses moved into the material handling industry during WWII. Companies, like Hyster, went from making various types of machinery to producing lift trucks. The United States Armed Forces increased demand for forklifts for the purpose of transporting military materials to the frontlines. The demand for longer lasting electric models resulted in the development of forklifts that can last for eight hours.
In the course of their history, forklifts have considerably changed. Industries around the world require forklifts to reduce expenses and increase production. Modern trucks are safer, more productive and more comfortable compared to their predecessors.