Lift trucks are essential pieces of machinery used commonly in business, especially in warehouses, distribution centers, storage handling and industrial facilities. A forklift truck is made of hundreds of parts, like the carriage, the cab, the power source, the wheels and the engine. Forklifts normally have a range of attachments as well. The following are several of the most essential lift truck components.
Lift Truck Engine - the forklift truck is designed with a power source at the back of the machinery. Various types of lift trucks have different types of engine which need varying power sources. For example, a forklift with an internal combustion engine could 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 forklift truck and the most essential of all the lift truck components is the truck frame. This forms the core of the machine. All other components of a lift truck are attached to the base, like for example the wheels, axles, mast counterweight and overhead guard. Fuel and hydraulic fluid tanks could also be part of the frame assembly.
Counterweight Forklift Components - the counterweight is what enables the machinery to be balanced while carrying heavy cargo. This component is made of heavy cast iron and is attached to the backend of the lift truck. The counterbalance balances the frame of the truck to prevent it from tipping over when a load is being carried or lifted on the front. In an electric lift truck, the heavy lead-acid battery provides balance and can work as part of the counterweight.
The Cab Area - The cab is also referred to as the operator compartment. Lift trucks will sometimes have closed cabs while others would be open to the air. There are really many parts situated in the cab for operating the forks. The cab has such essential parts like the operator controls, steering wheel, pedals, seats, levers and switches. The dashboard has operator readouts.