The forklift is an important piece of machinery in most companies which operate warehouses, distribution centers, industrial and storage handling plants. This great machine, the forklift is constructed of various components, like the important carriage, the power source, the engine and the wheels. Lift trucks normally have a range of attachments also. The following are a few of the most important lift truck components.
Lift Truck Engine - At the rear of the machine, the lift truck has its power source. The different types of engine on the lift truck would require varying power sources. Like for example, a lift truck with an internal combustion engine can have any of the following as its source of power: diesel, gasoline, LP gas or CNG gas. Electric motor lift trucks receive their power from a battery or fuel cells.
Truck Frame - The frame of the truck is the base of the forklift and the most essential of all the lift truck components. This forms the equipment's core. All other parts of a forklift are attached to the base, like for instance the mast, wheels, axles overhead guard and counterweight. Fuel and hydraulic fluid tanks could be part of the frame assembly as well.
Counterweight Lift Truck Components - While lifting heavy cargo, the counterweight allows the machinery to be balanced. This specific component is cast iron and comes attached to the rear 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 can function as part of the counterweight.
The Cab Area - The cab is also referred to as the operator compartment. Lift trucks would sometimes have closed cabs whilst others will be open to the air. There are many components situated in the cab for operating the forks. The cab has such important parts as the steering wheel, operator controls, seats, pedals, switches and levers. The dashboard contains operator readouts.