Forklifts play vital roles in many industries. Some of the industries that benefit from their functionality include:
- Manufacturing
- Warehousing & Distribution Centers
- Construction
- Agriculture
- Retail & Wholesale
- Waste Management
- Logistics
- Mining
- Aviation
- Automotive
Frankly, the list goes on and only proves how important they have become. However, you should know that there are various kinds as some are better suited for certain applications. For instance, the cushion forklift is great for indoor use in factories, distribution centers, warehouses, and the like.
Pneumatic forklifts on the other hand offer versatility of the highest order, as they can equally be used outdoors and in rough terrains. By the way, you can read this article to learn more about the different types of forklifts.
Versatility as rightly pointed out above is a major highlight of pneumatic forklifts, among other things. It is therefore no wonder that it is one of the most sought-after forklifts, especially by those who need this machine for outdoor and indoor use. In the spirit of ensuring that the right one is purchased whenever the need arises, this article discusses some selection tips. So, read on to find out more.
Tips for Choosing the Right Pneumatic Forklifts
The purchase of a pneumatic forklift is a substantial investment and one that you cannot afford to get wrong. Bearing this in mind, some of the things to seriously consider when selecting a pneumatic forklift for sale include the following:
Your Average Load Capacity Demands
You need to factor in the kinds of materials that would require handling and the weight involved. The objective is to go for something that would be able to handle the task. By the way, this is not only important for maximizing productivity but also preventing some safety issues that can arise as a result of overload.
Height Requirements
The ability to load onto and unload from certain heights is one of the features of pneumatic forklifts. However, some brands and models are capable of doing more or less than others in this regard.
As a result, be well aware of your needs in this regard. In simpler terms, you want to know how much height you may be required to load and unload from. Then ensure that whatever is purchased is capable of loading and unloading from the said height.
By the way, this has to happen in such a way that stability and maneuverability are not compromised. Once again, ensuring this is important for safety and seamless functionality, as well.
Terrain Considerations
Those who solely use these machines for indoor use have little to worry about in this regard. This is because indoor terrains are usually smooth and present very little or mild challenges.
However, this is not always the case for outdoor applications, which is why pneumatic forklifts have special tires designed to cope with the harsher demands. For example, they are air-filled, providing the much-needed cushioning effect which is important when navigating outdoor terrains.
Furthermore, they are more puncture-resistant, ensuring debris and sharp objects do not get the better of them. For more information on these types of tires, you can see: https://www.certifyme.net/.
Maneuverability
By the way, this is one of the top yardsticks for choosing a forklift by experts. The reason is that the level of the machine’s functionality is seriously tied to how well and how much it can be maneuvered.
In light of this, the machine’s turning radius is one of the very important details to know and one that should also inform your choice. Opt for something that does not compromise on safe load handling and stability even while maneuvers are being performed.
Maintenance
Several parts of this machine need to be regularly maintained with the tire being a prime example. Proper maintenance is largely important for preventing expensive repairs and extending the machine’s lifespan as much as possible.
Be that as it may, some machines are easier to maintain than others and still serve their purpose. Opting for such is a smart move.
However, the maintenance subject is not just limited to this. You also need to find out the possibility and reliability of getting post-sale support, if/when the need arises.
Durability
Verify the lifespan of individual components of the machine and the machine as a whole. This information is an important part of determining the machine’s cost-to-value ratio. So, ensure that it is one of the several things considered when selecting pneumatic forklifts.
Safety Features
Forklift accidents can be very dangerous. For one, they are heavy-duty and also handle heavy material in most cases. As a result, safety is one of the most important things to be considered during selection.
Against this backdrop, go for something that has the necessary safety features. The anti-roll technology and stability control systems are prime examples of such features and important ones at that.
Budget
Pneumatic forklifts cost a substantial amount, which is even why some people stick to renting them rather than outright purchase. Well, purchase can be the better and cost-effective decision, especially when you think long term.
Bearing this in mind, you also need to come up with a budget. However, it should be a reasonable budget considering that options with better features are usually going to cost more.
Furthermore, your choice should not only be determined by the initial purchase cost as operational cost equally matters. Things like costs of maintenance and fueling fall under the category of operational costs. The point is to go for something that has a low operational cost and not just be swayed by a low initial purchase cost.
Power Source
Pneumatic forklifts need to be powered just as it is with every other industrial machine and there are several options in this regard. Diesel and LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) are prime examples and very common power sources.
By the way, there are also electrically powered options, which is great for environmental sustainability. This is considering how such options leave zero greenhouse gas emissions.
You should come to terms with which power source is best for you and make an informed choice based on that. Factors such as availability of power source and cost are sub-factors to be considered.
Manufacturer’s Reputation
Some manufacturers of pneumatic forklifts have established themselves as forces to be reckoned with. This is largely a result of their innovativeness and the quality of their forklifts. Keep an eye out for such.
By the way, all of the aforementioned points should be used to assess what manufacturers have to offer. Besides these, warranty coverage and technical support should also be used as yardsticks when assessing manufacturers.
Conclusion
Specialized industrial machines such as pneumatic forklifts cost a substantial amount. In the spirit of getting value for money, you should not purchase any pneumatic forklift for sale without being certain that it is right for you. Some expert selection tips have therefore been shared here.
You should make the most of them to stand a good chance of getting the right pneumatic forklift. Expert handling of these machines is also important after purchase. So, take note of this as well.