There are in actual fact two distinctive classifications of forklifts within the materials handling industry, the industrial model and the rough terrain model. Rough terrain forklifts originally arrived on the market in the 1940's and had been predominantly utilized on uneven roads, perfect for areas where no paved surfaces were accessible, like construction sites and lumberyards.
Typically, the majority of rough terrain lift trucks are run on a propane, diesel or gas driven internal combustion engines with a battery used for power. Many manufacturers are playing with rough land forklifts that consume vegetable matter and run from ethanol. Large pneumatic tires with deep treads characterize these vehicles to permit them to grab onto the roughest ground type devoid of any slippage or sliding.
Many of the earliest models of rough ground lift trucks had the ability to lift in excess of 1000 lbs, by means of blades that could run underneath the item, haul it slightly and shift it to another location. After ten years on the market, all terrain lift trucks were reinforced with additional carrying muscle, increasing the possible cargo to more than 2000 lbs. Telescoping booms were added in the 1960’s, allowing them to stack supplies much higher than in previous years. The telescoping design feature is a staple of most rough terrain forklifts nowadays. Present styles are capable of managing well over 4000 lbs due to the continuous enhancements over the years. Telescoping capability has also improved with some styles achieving a height of 35 feet. Worker safety has also become a focus with some all terrain forklifts currently designed are fitted with an enclosed cab for the driver, as opposed to the older open air seating capacity.
The all terrain lift trucks accessible today work just as well on paved floors as on unpaved roads. These rough terrain lift trucks are being marketed for their usefulness enabling firms to transport items from outside the facility to the inside or vice versa.