Forklift trucks are important pieces of machines used commonly in business, especially in warehouses, distribution centers, storage handling and industrial plants. A lift truck is constructed of hundreds of parts, such as the cab, the carriage, the power source, the engine and the wheels. Forklifts generally have a range of attachments too. The following are several of the most essential parts of a forklift.
Forklift Engine - the forklift truck is made with a power source at the rear of the equipment. Different types of forklift truck have various kinds of engine that need varying power sources. For instance, a forklift with an IC engine can have any of the following as its source of power: CNG gas, LP gas, diesel or gasoline. Electric motor forklifts receive their power from a battery or fuel cells.
Frame of The Truck - The frame of the truck is the base of the lift truck and the most vital of all the forklift components. This forms the core of the equipment. All other components of a lift truck are attached to the base, like for example 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 - While lifting heavy cargo, the counterweight enables the machinery to be balanced. This particular component is cast iron and comes connected to the back 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. The heavy lead-acid battery in an electric forklift offers balance and could function as part of the counterweight.
The Cab Area - this part is where the operator sits and drives the equipment. Some forklifts have a cab area which is open to the air and some have closed cabs. There are really many components located within the cab for operating the forks. The cab has such essential components as the pedals, seats, switches, levers, steering wheel and operator controls. The dashboard has operator readouts.