Forklift Basics
Forklifts are very versatile machinery. The equipment are normally small vehicles with many attachments that allow it to lift and move loads. Factories and warehouses all around the world would use forklifts. The operator of a forklift must acquire special training, especially because these equipment operate on rear-wheel drive and this can be really hard to get used to until one is familiar with it. Since the forklift carries its load at the front, the center of gravity is always shifting and this results in the equipment being frequently unstable.
Parts
Typically, a forklift operator generally sits in an area known as the "cat." This area offers metal protection that stretches overhead like a roof. On the front of the machinery, the mast is situated. The mast is the mechanism that lowers and raises the load utilizing hydraulic cylinders.
Forklift Components
When searching for information about lift truck parts and aftermarket lift truck parts, it is a great idea to check out the Internet or your local phone book. Many places provide a full range of forklift parts, forklift accessories and support products.
Structural Components
The top part of a forklift is known as the overhead guard. The foot guard is the portion that separates the load from the cabin. A counterweight is situated at the forklift's back and is installed there that allows you to keep the equipment from falling over.
The blades and Apron
Generally, the load apron is responsible for keeping the load positioned while the forks, or metal arms, cradle the cargo. The tines can be tilted in an effort to balance the cargo. This is done with the tilting ram and the hydraulic hoist arm that powers the upward fork movement.
The Lift Structure
The load apron guard extends over the apron. It functions to keep the load balanced when the forks carry it along the track of the arms of the upright.
Mechanics
The internal engine on the forklift allows power to be sent to the wheels of the equipment. This is what makes the forklift move. The wheels have brakes installed in order to enable the driver the chance to stop or slow down the machinery as required.
Controls
Lifting loads is operated with hoist controls that are located inside the cat. The lift truck is driven by utilizing the steering wheel to turn, similar to a car or truck.
Load Rating Plate
This plate is located in the cabin. This load rating plate details the weight restrictions for each specific forklift.