How Forklifts Operate

A forklift truck is also called a forklift, a fork truck, or a lift truck. This equipment is a powered industrial truck which is used to lift and move items over short distances. It was during the early 20^th century that the forklift was developed and after World War II, the use and development of the forklift spread throughout the world and became an indispensable piece of equipment in manufacturing and warehousing operations.

Forklift Operation

Forklift manufacturers put a nameplate that contains the information regarding the specific weight of loads which a forklift can carry. Loads must not go beyond the specifications set by the manufacturer. It is illegal to remove or tamper with the nameplate without the permission of the manufacturer.

Most forklifts have rear-wheel steering and although this increases maneuverability in tight corners, it is different from a driver’s usual experience with other wheeled vehicles. Since there is no caster action, it is therefore not necessary to apply steering force to maintain a steady rate of turn.

Instability is a critical characteristic of the forklift. Since the center of gravity changes with each movement of the load, a forklift must never traverse a turn at speed with a raised load as centrifugal and gravitational forces may come together and cause a tip-over accident.

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