The forklift is an important piece of equipment in most businesses that operate distribution centers, warehouses, industrial and storage handling facilities. This wonder machine, the lift truck is constructed of many parts, like the essential carriage, the power source, the engine and the wheels. Forklifts generally have a range of attachments as well. The following are a few of the most important forklift components.
Engine of the Forklift - At the back of the machinery, the lift truck has its power source. The different kinds of engine on the lift truck would require varying power sources. For instance, a lift truck with an IC engine could have as its power source any of the following: LP gas, CNG gas, gasoline or diesel. Electric motor lift trucks receive their power from fuel cells or a battery.
Truck Frame - The truck frame is the base of the lift truck and the most vital of all the forklift parts. This forms the equipment's core. All other parts of a forklift are connected to the base, like the counterweight, overhead guard, wheels, axles and mast. Fuel and hydraulic fluid tanks can be part of the frame assembly also.
Counterweight Forklift Components - the counterweight is what enables the machinery to be balanced while lifting heavy cargo. This part is made of heavy cast iron and is connected to the backend of the lift truck. The counterbalance balances the truck frame to prevent it from tipping over when a load is being carried or lifted on the front. In an electric forklift, the heavy lead-acid battery gives balance and could function as part of the counterweight.
The Cab Area - The cab is also known as the operator compartment. Lift trucks would sometimes have closed cabs whilst others will be open to the air. There are really many components situated within the cab for operating the forks. The cab has such essential parts as the levers, switches, operator controls, steering wheel, seats and pedals. The dashboard contains operator readouts.