About Forklifts

Forklifts are an important part of business. Learn about forklifts, how they function and safety concerns. Determine whether forklifts are a good investment and gain information on how to be entertained by forklifts.

Significance

Forklifts are used for material handling and product handling of all sorts. Forklifts move material and products on a large scale, eliminating the manpower of having to move material by hand in smaller units. Forklifts are efficient in the moving of product.

Function

Forklifts are designed so that product can be stored in racks as high as 30 to 40 feet, maximizing warehouse space. The forks are attached to the mast, which moves the product up and down, by a telescopic hydraulic cylinder. Another set of hydraulic cylinders allows the mast to tilt. The third hydraulic cylinder is for a side shift, which is used for positioning. A telescopic hydraulic cylinder is a system that allows the lift to elevate the product by allowing the hydraulic cylinder to slide inside one another like sections of a telescope, creating a further distance of lift.

Features

The up and down, tilt, and side shift are operated by three separate levers. For example, by pulling back on the up and down lever, the forks will raise. Push forward on the same lever, and the forks go down. Pull back the lever, and the load tilts back; push forward, and the load tilts forward. On the side shift lever, pull back, and it goes to the right; push forward, and it goes to the left. All forklifts steer from the rear tires, allowing the forklift to turn in a tighter radius. The forward and reverse for the transmission is located on the steering column.

Size

Forklifts are rated in size by the capacity of the load that they can lift. They can lift heavy weight capacity due to a giant counter weight located on the rear of the forklift. The counterweight balances the forklift when it has a heavy load. A small forklift weighs about 9000 lbs., as much as two full-size pickup trucks, and can lift 4000 lbs. The size ranges of a forklift are extreme, ranging up to 80,000 lbs. of lifting capacity.

Considerations

Safety is to be regarded while driving a forklift. Haul a load in reverse if the load blocks your view. Travel in reverse down a ramp. A very important safety issue for the operator is how to mount the lift. Mounting the lift is called the "three-point stance," with the right hand on the back of the seat, left hand on the upright of the safety cage and left foot on the step. Forklifts are made of solid steel, and a fall or slip could be dangerous.

Potential

Using forklifts, businesses can expedite entire truckloads of product quickly and efficiently, preventing physical exertion and injury to workers. Pedestrians always have 100 percent of the right-of-way. Never operate a forklift on uneven surfaces or highway. Always wear your seat belt when driving a lift. If a forklift turns over on its side, you will want to stay inside the confines of the lift; never jump out of a forklift.

Expert Insight

The future of forklifts is a solid one, and it will always be an essential tool in moving the products that our country uses in mass quantities. Certifications and licensing are protocols that will remain within OSHA compliance standards for businesses using forklifts. Businesses can offer entertainment to operators and employees through the Forklift Rodeo. The rodeo consists of an obstacle course and delicate maneuvers such as putting a basketball in the hoop.