The forklift is an essential piece of machine in most companies that operate distribution centers, warehouses, industrial and storage handling plants. This wonder machine, the forklift is made of various components, such as the essential carriage, the engine, the power source and the wheels. Forklifts usually have various kinds of attachments as well. The following are a few of the most essential components of a lift truck.
Lift Truck Engine - the forklift truck is designed with a power source at the back of the machine. Various types of lift trucks have different kinds of engine that require varying power sources. Like for instance, a lift truck with an internal combustion engine can have as its power source any of the following: gasoline, diesel, LP gas or CNG gas. Electric motor lift trucks receive their power from fuel cells or a battery.
Frame of The Truck - The truck frame is the base of the lift truck and the most essential of all the lift truck parts. This forms the core of the machine. All other forklift components are attached to the base, including the counterweight, overhead guard, mast, wheels and axles. Fuel and hydraulic fluid tanks could also be part of the frame assembly.
Counterweight Lift Truck Components - the counterweight is what enables the machine to be balanced while carrying heavy cargo. This part is made of heavy cast iron and is attached to the rear-end of the forklift 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 lift truck, the heavy lead-acid battery offers balance and could work as part of the counterweight.
The Cab Area - this area is where the operator sits and drives the equipment. Several forklifts have a cab area that is open to the air and some have closed cabs. There are numerous parts located in the cab for operating the forks. The cab contains such important components like for example the levers, switches, steering wheel, operator controls, pedals and seats. The dashboard contains operator readouts.