Forklift trucks are important pieces of equipment utilized widely in business, especially in distribution centers, warehouses, storage handling and industrial facilities. A lift truck is made of hundreds of parts, including the cab, the carriage, the power source, the wheels and the engine. Forklifts usually have a variety of attachments too. The following are a few of the most essential forklift components.
Lift Truck Engine - the lift truck is designed with a power source at the back of the machine. Different kinds of forklift truck have different types of engine which need varying power sources. For example, a forklift with an IC engine could have as its power source any of the following: diesel, gasoline, LP gas or CNG gas. 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 important of all the forklift components. This forms the equipment's core. All other lift truck parts are connected to the base, like the overhead guard, counterweight, mast, wheels and axles. Fuel and hydraulic fluid tanks may also be part of the frame assembly.
Counterweight Lift Truck Parts - While carrying heavy cargo, the counterweight allows the machinery to be balanced. This particular part is cast iron and comes connected to the rear of the lift truck. The counterbalance balances the truck frame so as 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 provides balance and may function as part of the counterweight.
The Cab Area - this part is where the operator sits and drives the machine. Several lift trucks have a cab area which is open to the air and several have closed cabs. There are lots of parts located within the cab for operating the forks. The cab has such important components like for instance the pedals, seats, levers, switches, operator controls and steering wheel. The dashboard has operator readouts.