Forklift Basics
Forklifts are very versatile machinery. The equipment are normally small vehicles with many attachments that allow it to lift and move loads. Warehouses and factories all around the world would use forklifts. The driver of a forklift must acquire special training, especially because these machinery work on rear-wheel drive and this can be difficult to get used to until one is familiar with it. Because the forklift carries its load at the front, the center of gravity is continually shifting and this results in the machinery being somewhat unstable.
Parts
Typically, a forklift driver generally sits in an area referred to as the "cat." This particular area provides metal protection which stretches overhead similar to a roof. On the front of the machinery, the mast is located. The mast is the mechanism that raises and lowers the load using hydraulic cylinders.
Forklift Parts
It is always a great idea to check the World Wide Web and the local area phone directory when looking for remanufactured forklift components and aftermarket forklift components information. Many places offer various forklift parts, forklift accessories and support products.
Structural Components
The overhead guard is part of the forklift's top portion, whereas the foot guard separates the load from the cabin. A counterweight is situated at the back of the forklift and is installed there with a purpose to keep the equipment from falling over.
The tines and Apron
Generally, the load apron is responsible for keeping the load in place whilst the metal arms, or forks, support the load. The forks can be tilted with a purpose to balance the load. This is accomplished using the tilting ram and the hydraulic hoist arm which powers the upward fork movement.
The Lift Structure
The load apron guard extends over the apron. It works 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 machine. 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 machine as needed.
Controls
Lifting loads is operated with hoist controls which are located inside the cat. The forklift is driven by using the steering wheel to turn, similar to a truck or car.
Load Rating Plate
This plate is located in the cabin. This load rating plate details the weight limitations for every particular forklift.