The forklift is an important piece of machinery in most companies which operate warehouses, distribution centers, storage handling and industrial facilities. This wonder equipment, the lift truck is constructed of various components, such as the essential carriage, the power source, the engine and the wheels. Lift trucks normally have a range of attachments as well. The following are some of the most important lift truck components.
Engine of the Forklift - At the rear of the machine, the lift truck has its power source. The various types of engine on the forklift will require varying power sources. For example, a lift truck with an IC engine could have as its power source any of the following: diesel, gasoline, CNG gas or LP gas. Electric motor lift trucks receive their power from fuel cells or a battery.
Truck Frame - the base of the lift truck and the most important of all the lift truck parts is the frame of the truck. This forms the core of the machine. All other forklift parts are connected to the base, like the wheels, axles, mast overhead guard and counterweight. Hydraulic fluid and fuel tanks may be part of the frame assembly also.
Counterweight Lift Truck Parts - While carrying heavy cargo, the counterweight allows the machinery to be balanced. This particular part is cast iron and comes attached to the rear of the forklift. The counterbalance balances the frame of the truck 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 provides balance and can work as part of the counterweight.
The Cab Area - this area is where the operator sits and drives the machinery. Some lift trucks have a cab area that is open to the air and some have closed cabs. There are really lots of parts located within the cab for operating the forks. The cab has such important parts like for instance the switches, levers, operator controls, steering wheel, pedals and seats. The dashboard has operator readouts.