Forklifts are essential tools used in industries today. Companies which use forklifts have to understand their significance, their functional requirements, and the safety aspects involved in lift truck operation. Forklifts are truly a good investment that can increase workplace efficiency and productivity.
Significance
Forklifts are a really efficient way to transport product. They are a modern way to move goods and materials in various environments. Forklifts are used to transport bulky and heavy objects which would otherwise need to be moved manually in smaller units.
Function
Forklifts could reach racks as high as 9 to 12 meters. This enables efficient use of maximum storage capacity in 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 tilt the mast and shift it to the side, for positioning. A telescopic hydraulic cylinder is an attachment that allows an even higher lift using a hydraulic cylinder system which functions much similar to a telescope. Each and every section slides inside the other similar to sections of a telescope.
Features
Separate levers control the up and down, side shift and tilt. To lift the forks, the driver pulls back on the up and down lever. To lower the forks, the driver pushes the lever forward. 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 permits the lift truck to turn in a really small radius. The reverse and forward controls of the transmission are found on the steering column.