The forklift is an important piece of machine in most companies that operate warehouses, distribution centers, industrial and storage handling plants. This great machine, the forklift is made of many parts, like the important carriage, the engine, the power source and the wheels. Lift trucks usually have various types of attachments as well. The following are several of the most important parts of a lift truck.
Lift Truck Engine - At the rear of the machine, the forklift has its power source. The different types of engine on the lift truck would need varying power sources. For example, a lift truck with an IC engine could have as its power source any of the following: CNG gas, LP gas, diesel or gasoline. Electric motor lift trucks receive their power from fuel cells or a battery.
Truck Frame - The frame of the truck is the base of the lift truck and the most important of all the forklift parts. This forms the equipment's core. All other forklift components are attached to the base, like the mast, wheels, axles overhead guard and counterweight. Hydraulic fluid and fuel tanks could also be part of the frame assembly.
Counterweight Lift Truck Parts - While carrying heavy cargo, the counterweight enables the machine to be balanced. This particular component is cast iron and comes connected to the back of the lift truck. The counterbalance balances the frame of the truck in order to prevent it from tipping over when a load is being lifted or carried on the front. In an electric forklift, the heavy lead-acid battery offers balance and can function as part of the counterweight.
The Cab Area - The cab is also referred to as the operator compartment. Forklifts would sometimes have closed cabs whilst others will be open to the air. There are numerous parts located within the cab for operating the forks. The cab contains such essential parts like the switches, levers, steering wheel, operator controls, pedals and seats. The dashboard has operator readouts.