Forklift ramps are used to enable forklifts move to a higher work area. Forklifts are basically designed to operate on flat surfaces and its dangerous to operate on steep inclines. The ramps enable forklifts to load merchandise directly on trailers and trucks in the absence of permanent loading docks.
The ramps are made from strong non-corrosive metals and are designed to withstand the pressure of a fully loaded forklift. The basic structure consists of an elevated metal platform supported by pillars and metal crossbeams. Some even have mechanical levers to increase or decrease the height of the ramp.
Forklifts are generally small and compact. This makes them vulnerable to tipping over while negotiating an incline. The problem increases when the forklift is loaded to capacity. Ramps provide the required gradual elevation needed by forklifts. Ramps are made from steel or aluminum and are coated with special anti corrosive paint. Generally, steel is preferred as it is cheaper than aluminum. Ramps can either be portable or fixed. A fixed ramp is used where goods are loaded on lorries and trucks. A portable ramp is used for loading on specific medium such as bogies of a goods train.
Ramps have lessened the shortcomings of forklifts. They have reduced the chances of forklifts tipping over. Ramps are available to suit the needs of every type of forklifts. Customized ramps are also available for specific needs of the customer. These ramps are usually maintenance free, easy to use and portable.
Forklift ramp designs are constantly being reinvented to suit the needs of different industries like warehousing, manufacturing, construction and others. Due to the rise in sale of forklifts, the demand for these ramps is also expected to increase in the near future. This is good for the forklift ramp manufacturing industry.
Raymond Handling Solutions, Inc, 10261 Matern Place, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670 - 1-800-NOW-LIFT
CAN MY FORKLIFT WORK ON MY RAMP?
This simple calculator helps you determine whether a forklift will work on a ramp.
You need to know your the height of the ramp, the length, the underclearance of the forklift and the distance between the front and back wheels.
Enter your unique information in the yellow input fields below for an analysis.
WAREHOUSE HANDLING AND STORAGE SOLUTIONS PEOPLE
The information on this page is deemed reliable but its accuracy is not guaranteed. Please contact your local RAYMOND sales rep for an indepth analysis.
Why should I purchase an electric forklift versus a LPG (liquid propane gas) forklift?
If your business is involved in working in cold (cold storage or freezers, for example), you must use an electric forklift. An LPG forklift emits gas fumes and heat that will actually raise the level of the temperature in the area in which it is being operated. If, however, you are using your forklift outside where it could possibly rain or snow, LPG is strongly recommended as an electric forklift can short out if it gets wet. In general, an electric forklift is quieter and does not emit fumes, but requires recharging time (which could be substantial, depending on how much it has been used and the voltage of electricity available), while an LPG requires that you get the tank refilled (we recommend that you always have a full spare tank on the premises).
- Storage efficiency calculator - Calculate the best storage method by entering the number of SKUs and total pallets stored
- Hydrogen calculator - Calculate the total production of hydrogen produced by your battery charging area
- Emissions Calculator (CARB) - Calculate whether your fleet will be in compliance on Jan 1, 2009.
- Equipment calculator - Know how many forklift trucks you need for you warehouse handling volume.
Note: This calculator assumes the forklift is empty, or if loaded it is fitted with hard rubber tires.
For a loaded forklift fitted with cushion or pneumatic tyres the measured clearance on the level may be reduced by 0.4 - 0.6 inches. It is suggested that for these forklifts you reduce the clearance by 0.6 in before inputting it into the calculator. For example if the clearance when empty is 4 inches input 3.4 inches. (Recommendation provided by John Lambert of Victoria, Australia)