The lift truck is an essential piece of equipment in most companies which operate warehouses, distribution centers, storage handling and industrial plants. This wonder equipment, the lift truck is constructed of various parts, such as the important carriage, the engine, the power source and the wheels. Lift trucks usually have a range of attachments also. The following are some of the most essential forklift components.
Lift Truck Engine - At the rear of the equipment, the forklift has its power source. The different types of engine on the forklift would require varying power sources. Like for example, a forklift with an IC engine can have as its power source any of the following: gasoline, diesel, CNG gas or LP gas. Electric motor forklifts receive their power from fuel cells or a battery.
Truck Frame - The truck frame is the base of the lift truck and the most essential of all the lift truck components. This forms the core of the machine. All other parts of a forklift are connected to the base, like the wheels, axles, mast counterweight and overhead guard. Fuel and hydraulic fluid tanks may be part of the frame assembly too.
Counterweight Forklift Parts - the counterweight is what enables the machinery to be balanced while carrying heavy loads. This component is made of heavy cast iron and is attached to the backend of the lift truck. 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 lift truck, the heavy lead-acid battery offers balance and can function as part of the counterweight.
The Cab Area - this area is where the operator sits and drives the machine. Several forklifts have a cab area that is open to the air and several have closed cabs. There are a lot of parts located within the cab for operating the forks. The cab contains such important parts as the pedals, seats, levers, switches, operator controls and steering wheel. The dashboard contains operator readouts.