In modern construction and manufacturing industries, the forklift is a vital tool. The companies which use forklifts will know their significance, their functional requirements, and the safety issues involved in lift truck operation. Forklifts are truly a good investment that can increase productivity and efficiency in the workplace.
Significance
Forklifts are a very effective way to transport product. They are a modern way to transport products and materials in various settings. Forklifts are used to transport bulky and heavy objects which would otherwise have to be moved by hand in smaller units.
Function
Forklifts could reach racks as high as 9 to 12 meters. This enables efficient use of maximum storage capacity inside a retail store or warehouse. The forks move down and up by a telescopic hydraulic cylinder on the lift truck mast. Different sets of hydraulic cylinders are used to be able to tilt the mast and shift it to the side, for positioning. A telescopic hydraulic cylinder is an attachment that allows an even higher lift utilizing a hydraulic cylinder system which functions a lot similar to a telescope. Each section slides inside the other similar to sections of a telescope.
Features
Control levers help to raise the forks down and up, tilt, and side shift. The operator pulls back on the down and up lever to raise the forks, pushing the lever forward will lower the forks. Tilt the load back by pulling back the lever, push it forward to tilt the load forward. The side shift lever controls the left and right movement of the forks. Unlike cars, forklifts steer from the back tires. This allows the lift truck to turn in a very small radius. The transmission forward and reverse controls are found on the steering column.