Friday 12 August 2016

Top Preventive Measures for Keeping Your Forklifts in Good Condition

Forklift trucks are mandatory in every industry. These power trucks are used to transport all kind of materials from place to place. These trucks were developed in 1920 by the joint venture of many companies, such as, transmission parts manufacturing company Clerk, Hoist Company Yale and Towne Manufacturing.

Forklifts Scotland has large scale application in manufacturing and warehousing operations. All kind of raw materials, heavy equipments and finished goods are transported with the help of these trucks. As these trucks work in live work zone where people are working, operating these power trucks need excellent skill and experience. Even a single accident can cause great disaster and extensive loss to the industry.

Preventive Maintenance
Whether you or someone else perform the forklift maintenance, here are some good preventive measures that you can take to increase the life of your forklifts – • The first thing you need to do is start the forklift and allow it to run for a few minutes to listen to the engine performance. Look for knocks or misses, any squealing sound and exhaust leaks.

• Check all the horn, gauges, safety warning devices, outside lights, back-up lights, overhead guard to ensure that they are working properly.

• The next thing you need to do is check the battery compartment. Make sure that you clean the battery terminal, connectors and the cables. You may also apply protectant to prevent any corrosion.

• Also, check the drive axle underneath the machine. Ensure that you grease the drive axle.

• The belts of the forklift engine should be check for any cracks or frays.

• Look at the tyres and replace them if there are signs of excessive wear and tear.

It is important for a forklift operator to have proper knowledge and skills about using the forklift. This makes their job much easier and allows them to perform their duties in a proper manner. The duties of the forklift operator depend on the warehouse or factory that he is working in. But still, some of the basic training allows the operator to perform well and avoid any accidents during the course of the work.

An Overview on the Types of Forklifts in the Market

A forklift is a powered industrial mini truck used to lift and move materials short distances. Forklifts are used since the time of world war II.They can not only be used in warehouses, but also in moving furniture while shifting to new house. They are also known as ‘Lift Trucks’.

The fuel sources used in Forklift trucks may be propane, CNG, Gasoline, Diesel or Lead acid batteries. Types of forklift available in market are as follows-

Electric Motor Driven Trucks
As the name suggests, these trucks are powered by electricity. These may use pneumatic or cushioned tyres.Pneumatic lift tyre trucks are good for unpaved yards and rough terrain surfaces whereas cushion lift tyre trucks are used on compact model forklifts in warehouse applications.

Electric Motor Narrow Aisle Trucks
If one wants to maximize warehouse space, then these trucks are of great utility. They require less space and at the same time no compromise to speed and efficiency. They are mostly used to rack pallets on smooth surfaces.

Solid cushion and Electric solid cushion Trucks
Solid cushion forklift trucks use solid rubber or polyurethane for their tires. They are used in tight workspaces. Additionally, they offer large economic saving over traditional forklifts. There capability to absorb shocks is less. The only difference between solid cushion and electric cushion trucks is that electric cushion trucks use battery with different voltages.

Internal Combustion Trucks
These are most commonly used forklift normally outdoors. These are typically cheaper to purchase and lifts heavier loads. They can work in all types of weather and are robust. These lifts use CNG, Gasoline, LPG and diesel as fuel options.

Electric and Internal Combustion Forklifts
The forklift trucks that run on batteries come under the name of electric forklifts. For proper functioning, the batteries need to be charged periodically. The advantage of using these is that they do not emit pollutants and are environment friendly. They have lower maintenance and less operational cost compared to combustion forklift trucks. Moffett truck mounted forklifts are highly efficient and cost effective.

Special attachments can be used additionally to lift irregular loads in forklifts. There are wide varieties of forklifts available in market according to the Cost, fuel consumption, structure, usage and tyre types. One can choose according to the warehouse requirements.

Tips on Renting the Right Forklift for Different Purposes

Forklifts on rent can be a total mess if not planned properly. Planning can save money, time as well as make you free from headaches. Forklifts can be rented for any length of time it may be hours to years for simple indoor uses or craggy outdoor works. One must first judge the use of forklifts as sometimes additional forklifts may be required because of the workload. Renting forklifts can be ideal solution for short term goals of companies. Points that should be considered for renting right lifts are as follows –

Consider the requirements
One must consider the requirements as how heavy loads need to be handled. The size of the load will also play a major role, if forklifts are not wide enough extra attachments or accessories may be required. If the selection of wrong forklift is done, may lead to safety hazards. Budget will also be crucial factor.

Types of Forklifts available
According to the fuel consumption, the forklifts that run on Gas or Diesel emit pollutants king and other toxic fumes but are more powerful, making them work successfully in rough conditions. On the other hand, electric powered forklifts use lead acid chargeable batteries which have comparatively less power and less noise. These are good for indoor applications. Used forklifts Glasgow forklifts have different working capacities.

Working style preference
Comfort is the most basic need of human. The forklifts available should match your working style whether you want to walk behind the forklift or ride it. Sometimes style determines the working capabilities of forklifts. In long period usage, walk behind forklifts can be tiresome.

Rental assessment
Once the machine is decided to be taken on rent, one should discuss the charges. There may be daily, monthly or weekly charges. Assessment of rental agreement is necessary. Sometimes, daily charges are more than weekly charges. Also consider the overtime charges if any.

Insurance coverage
When the rental deal for forklift is done, it is up to the company to give insurance coverage to the customer and the people associated with the job for injury or machine damage. Before renting forklift, Please check insurance coverage.

Check if the forklift you have rented needs any extra attachments. The attachments should match the forklift. Try to get them from the same place this will avoid state of confusion. Like if moving barrels, barrel handlers are necessary.