Introduction
l Also known as lift truck, a stacker-truck, trailer loader, side loader, fork truck.
l The Pennsylvania Railroad in 1906 introduced battery powered platform trucks.
l A tool capable of lifting thousands of pounds
l It has two metal forks on the front used to lift cargo.
Toyota Forklift
Main components
l Truck Frame - Is the base of the machine to which the mast, axles, wheels, counterweight, overhead guard and power source are attached.
l Counterweight - is a mass attached to the rear of the forklift truck frame. The purpose of the counterweight is to counterbalance the load being lifted.
l Cab - is the area that contains a seat for the operator along with the control pedals, steering wheel, levers, switches and a dashboard containing operator readouts.
l Overhead Guard - is a metal roof supported by posts at each corner of the cab that helps protect the operator from any falling objects.
l Power Source - may consist of an internal combustion engine that can be powered by LPG, CNG gas, gasoline or diesel fuel.
l Tilt Cylinders - are hydraulic cylinders that are mounted to the truck frame and the mast. The tilt cylinders pivot the mast to assist in engaging a load.
l Mast - is the vertical assembly that does the work of raising and lowering the load.
l Carriage - is the component to which the forks or other attachments mount.
l Load Back Rest - is a rack-like extension that is either bolted or welded to the carriage in order to prevent the load from shifting backward when the carriage is lifted to full height.
l Attachments - may consist of forks or tines that are the L-shaped members that engage the load. Some attachments include sides hifters, slip sheet attachments.
Types
l Standard Trucks
l Reach Trucks
l Order Selecto
l Motorized Pallet Trucks
l Swing Mast Trucks
l Turret Trucks
l Internal Combustion Forklifts
l Electric Forklifts
Tasks
l To carry heavy materials on to the elevated platform.
l The load rest on forks maneuvered securely under the ground.
l Carry heavy materials from one place to the other.
l Does not occupy more space unlike the trucks and lorries.
Capacities
l Forklift trucks are available in many variations and load capacities.
l Up to 50 tons lift capacity are used for lifting heavier loads.
l The engine horsepower and bucket capacity depends from company to company.
Faults
l Gearbox faults
l Sensor power supply voltage has a malfunction.
l Connectors coming loose ,wires breaking inside the sheathing.
l Problems due to heat exposure or long run.
Fork lifter Safety
l Pinch Points
l Watch where you place your hands and feet. Be aware of and stay clear of pinch points.
l Stay in Your Truck
l Stay under the overhead guard. It is designed to protect you while you operate the truck.
l You are Responsible for Others
l Operating your lift truck safely means you are not only responsible for your safety, but also for the safety of the people around you. Always look out for others before moving your lift truck.