Forklift trucks are essential pieces of equipment used commonly in business, particularly within warehouses, distribution centers, storage handling and industrial facilities. A forklift truck is constructed of hundreds of parts, such as the cab, the carriage, the power source, the engine and the wheels. Forklifts generally have different types of attachments also. The following are a few of the most essential components of a lift truck.
Engine of the Forklift - At the rear of the machinery, the forklift has its power source. The various types of engine on the lift truck would require varying power sources. For example, a lift truck with an internal combustion engine could have any of the following as its power source: diesel, gasoline, CNG gas or LP 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 lift truck and the most important of all the forklift parts. This forms the machine's core. All other parts of a forklift are connected to the base, including the wheels, axles, mast counterweight and overhead guard. Fuel and hydraulic fluid tanks can be part of the frame assembly too.
Counterweight Forklift Parts - While carrying heavy cargo, the counterweight enables the machine to be balanced. This specific component is cast iron and comes attached to the rear of the lift truck. The counterbalance balances the frame of the truck so as 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 provides balance and can work as part of the counterweight.
The Cab Area - this part is where the operator sits and drives the equipment. Several lift trucks have a cab area that is open to the air and several have closed cabs. There are really numerous parts situated in the cab for operating the forks. The cab has such essential components as the steering wheel, operator controls, pedals, seats, levers and switches. The dashboard contains operator readouts.