The best-known
industrial truck for handling goods - the forklift truck
Forklifts are industrial
trucks and are used for internal transport. The strongest examples of
heavy-duty forklifts can handle more than 60 tonnes. In addition to incredibly
powerful drives, they also require massive machine constructions. This is where
large truck or industrial engines are installed. The most common lifting loads,
however, are between one and eight tonnes. In order to serve high shelves, the
lift masts can be designed up to twelve metres. However, the forklift trucks
are mainly optimised for transporting pallets.
The essential elements are
the lifting unit, lifting mast and fork carriage. The fork carriage has two
adjustable tines. These give the forklift its name, as they are also called
forks.
What types of forklift
trucks are there?
The forklift truck is the
classic type. The main feature is the lifting unit at the front, which consists
of a lift mast and forks. This makes it easy to pick up Euro pallets, on which
the actual goods to be transported are then placed. This forklift truck is also
called a reach truck.
The reach truck is a
special variant of the lift truck, which is particularly suitable for narrow
spaces. It has a very compact design. As it is designed for indoor use, the
reach truck is mainly electrically powered.
The telescopic handler is
the exact opposite. It is often used in the construction industry. Here it is
used to stack large components metres high.
In addition to these
variants, you will find a large selection of pallet trucks, electric pallet
trucks and pedestrian stackers on tramao.
What attachments are
available for forklift trucks?
A large selection of
numerous attachments can turn a forklift truck into a real all-rounder. These
offer diverse and new functions and can increase productivity. This gives the
forklift real added value.
Here is an overview of some
of the attachments:
- Working platforms
- Containers (for example
for bulk goods)
- Turning and tipping
devices
- Grabs
- Tongs
- Shovels
- Sweepers
The 5 most common
mistakes when driving a forklift truck and how to avoid them
- You transport the loads
too high
There is a danger to life if a forklift tips over. The centre of gravity of the forklift changes due to the load. The heavier the load and the higher it is lifted, the higher the risk of tipping. Loads must always be transported close to the ground.
- You drive backwards
without securing yourself to the rear
Special care must be taken
when reversing, which is why modern forklifts have a rotating driver's seat.
This makes it easier to look in the direction of travel even when reversing.
- You only use one fork for
transport
The load capacity is
significantly reduced if only one fork is used to lift and transport loads.
There is a great risk that the forklift will become unbalanced and tip to one
side. For safe transport, both forks must be used.
- You leave the key in
It is important to avoid
use by unauthorised persons. If you simply park the forklift and do not take
any safety precautions, you are acting with gross negligence. So switch off the
engine, pull the handbrake, put the truck in gear and remove the key
- Do not drive away from
traffic routes
To prevent accidents,
certain traffic routes have been set up in the factories. These should never be
left. Even outside the company premises, in public traffic areas, driving is
not allowed without appropriate insurance.