A type of equipment in the material handling industry which can be used to lift and transport loads from one place to another is called a forklift. Each and every forklift part has a particular function. Various parts can be utilized to transport the load either vertically or horizontally.
Mast
The parts utilized to lift and lower the load is called the forklift mast. There are various types of masts used for lifting loads to different heights: duplex, triplex, quad and simplex.
Power Supply
Forklifts have four different ways of being powered: electric, gas, propane and diesel. The battery is situated in the cab under the seat. The propane tank is on the rear of the truck. The fuel tank on diesel and gas forklifts is underneath the back of the truck.
Cab
Located in the middle of the truck is the forklift cab. This is where the operator sits and accesses all the controls and informational gauges. The steering wheel, gas pedal, lifting controls, tilting controls and brake are all located within the cab.
Frame
Carrying all the biggest forklift parts is the frame of the truck. This consists of the counterweights located at the rear that prevents the truck from tipping over when loaded. The frame includes the overhead guard which protects the operator. The undercarriage holds the driveshaft, axles and wheels.