18 Feb Forklift Anatomy
Before an operator can hop in a forklift and drive it safely, it’s crucial to understand the parts that make up a forklift. Although there are a few different types, all forklifts have several universal units, components, and systems that make up the anatomy of a forklift. Here is a rundown of the main parts of a forklift.
Anatomy of a Forklift
Cab
The cab is where the operator sits or stands while operating the forklift. The cab contains the controls to steer the truck, navigate the forks, and send out safety signals. The pedals are also located in the cab to accelerate and brake.
Overhead Guard
The overhead guard is located directly above the operator – hence the name. The guard is in place to protect the operator from weather conditions and falling material.
Counterweight
The counterweight is crucial to any forklift. It keeps the forklift balanced while handling heavy material. Without the counterweight, the forklift would tip when attempting to pick up heavy material and put the operator in harm’s way. The counterweight is located in the back of the forklift behind the operator.
Forks
As in the name, forklifts have forks that are large steel tines that are located in the front of the lift. They are controlled by the operator and are used to add and remove material on a pallet from shelving and transport it to and from trucks.
Undercarriage
The undercarriage is located under the forklift and contains all the mechanics of a forklift. It is important to have regular inspections to maintain the function and longevity of the forklift.
Fuel Tank/Battery
Some forklifts operate on gas; therefore, they have a fuel tank. These fuel tanks can carry, gasoline, diesel, or LPG. Other forklifts operate on battery. These forklifts will need a charging station to maintain the optimization and longevity of the battery and keep it in good health.
Tires
The tires on a forklift are dependable on the condition the forklift will be used in.
Cushion tires are designed for indoor operations that have smooth paved surfaces. They are made of rubber and directly pressed onto the wheel.
Solid Pneumatic tires are designed for indoor and outdoor operations. They are made of solid rubber and are made for heavy-duty operations.
Air-filled Pneumatic tires are designed for outdoor operations. They are made of extra-strength rubber and made for rough terrain.
Mast
The mast is located on the front of the forklift. The forks are attached to the mast and allow the forks to move up and down. Depending on the forklift and the height of your warehouse, a mast can reach as high as 15 feet in the air!
Hydraulic Lift Cylinder
The hydraulic lift cylinder powers the forks to move along the mast and is responsible for the total vertical lift of the truck.
Scheduling Regular Maintenance
It is important to have regular maintenance scheduled for your forklift. Like an automobile, time and use put wear and tear on your forklift. Scheduling maintenance prevents expensive repairs or having to purchase a new forklift and ensures total optimization of your warehouse’s operations.
To learn more visit: Liftpower.com/services
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Sources:
Anatomy of a Forklift. January 29th, 2021. “Anatomy of a Forklift”
Mast Types and Their Advantages. September 13th, 2018. “Mast Types and Their Advantages”
