Forklift trucks are essential pieces of machines utilized commonly in business, especially in warehouses, distribution centers, storage handling and industrial facilities. A lift truck is made of hundreds of parts, including the carriage, the cab, the power source, the wheels and the engine. Forklifts generally have a variety of attachments too. The following are some of the most important components of a lift truck.
Engine of the Forklift - At the rear of the machine, the lift truck has its power source. The different types of engine on the lift truck will need varying power sources. Like for instance, a forklift with an IC engine can have as its power source any of the following: LP gas, CNG gas, diesel or gasoline. Electric motor lift trucks receive their power from fuel cells or a battery.
Truck Frame - the base of the lift truck and the most essential of all the forklift parts is the frame of the truck. This forms the core of the equipment. All other parts of a forklift are attached to the base, like the counterweight, overhead guard, mast, wheels and axles. Fuel and hydraulic fluid tanks can be part of the frame assembly too.
Counterweight Lift Truck Components - While lifting heavy cargo, the counterweight enables the machine to be balanced. This particular part is cast iron and comes attached 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 lift truck gives balance and can work as part of the counterweight.
The Cab Area - this area is where the operator sits and drives the equipment. Several lift trucks have a cab area which is open to the air and some have closed cabs. There are numerous parts located within the cab for operating the forks. The cab has such essential parts as the steering wheel, operator controls, seats, pedals, levers and switches. The dashboard contains operator readouts.