While there are many types of forklifts, their basic construction is fundamentally similar; they primarily consist of an engine, a chassis (traveling mechanism), a body, a lifting mechanism, a hydraulic system, and electrical equipment.
The engine serves as the power source for internal combustion forklifts, converting the thermal energy generated by fuel combustion into mechanical energy, which is then transmitted outward via the engine's flywheel. The chassis functions to support the vehicle body, receive the power output from the engine, and ensure the forklift's proper movement; it comprises the transmission system, traveling mechanism, steering system, and braking system. The vehicle body and frame are integrated into a single unit, constructed from welded structural steel sections. A cast-iron block-specifically sized to suit the forklift model-is positioned at the rear of the vehicle to serve as a counterweight. The mass of this counterweight is determined by the forklift's rated load capacity; it acts to counterbalance the load when the forklift is carrying cargo, thereby maintaining the vehicle's stability. The lifting mechanism primarily consists of a mast and a set of forks; the mast is pivotally mounted to the front axle support on the vehicle body and is composed of a parallel arrangement of steel frames fitted with a sliding carriage to which the forks are attached. The forklift lifts heavy loads to various heights through a combined system of hydraulics, pulleys, and control mechanisms; the key components enabling the forklift's operation are the hydraulic system, the chain drive system, and the control devices. Other critical components include the load backrest, overhead guard, operator compartment, forks, mast, power source, frame, and tires.
The structure of a manual forklift (or manual hydraulic pallet jack) primarily comprises the frame, fork assembly, wheels, handle, and hydraulic system. The frame constitutes the main body, supporting the entire weight of the forklift; the fork assembly is used for loading cargo; the wheels enable the forklift to move; the handle is used to control direction and lifting height; and the hydraulic system serves as the power source. Its primary function is to facilitate the loading, unloading, and short-distance transport of goods by allowing an operator to manually manipulate the handle to control the lifting and lowering of the forks, as well as the movement of the forklift itself.
A forklift's hydraulic system utilizes a series of cylinders, pistons, and fluid to efficiently lift and lower loads. When the operator engages the lift handle, a pump is activated; this pump forces fluid into the hydraulic cylinders, and the resulting pressure increase drives the pistons, thereby raising the mast and forks. The forklift's roller chain and sprocket system connects the forks to the frame via roller chains. A sprocket located at the top of the mast engages with these chains; as the hydraulic piston drives the mast upward, the sprocket drives the chains, thereby lifting the forks. Compared to systems that rely solely on hydraulics, this design enables the forks to achieve greater lift heights and offers enhanced stability. The forklift's control mechanisms comprise steering controls and lifting controls. The vehicle utilizes rear-wheel steering to enhance precision and maneuverability-particularly when carrying a load-while the lifting controls employ one lever to raise or lower the load, and a second lever to tilt the load forward or backward.
