Wózek, wózkowi nierówny

Trolley, uneven trolley

The most important element that forklifts have, is the part that forms the basis of their work, are the forks. Thanks to them, it is possible to transport goods on pallets. Forks are a tool for transporting and lifting goods. In forklift trucks, the forks are designed flat and at an angle to be able to slide under the pallet and lift it stably to the required height. Forklifts differ in such parameters as: length, type, lifting capacity and the height at which they are able to lift the goods. Therefore, the correct selection of the forks to the truck is crucial, and you should take into account both the lifting capacity of the forks and the truck. For example, when a forklift has a lifting capacity of 4 tons, the same forks must have a lifting capacity of at least 2,000. kg at a load center of 500 mm (fork capacity indication – 2000 kg x 500 mm). 

The load capacity of the forks must always be stated at the specified center of gravity. In the next step, we pay attention to the length of the forks. When choosing, we can choose telescopic forks, the reach of which can be freely increased depending on the needs. There are certain standards according to which a fork wear of 10% (but not more than 5 mm) is allowed. The consumption can be measured with a special measuring instrument or a caliper. Since Poland has imposed the necessity of Technical Inspection on forklifts, the forks must have an appropriate Certificate of Conformity. When buying forks, we should receive a certificate from the seller for each pair of forks. The same markings should appear both on the forks and on the certificate issued to them.

What does fork control look like?

The way the forks are controlled is very important. When controlling a forklift, we operate both forks and mast at the same time. Three types of movements can be distinguished: the first is to raise and lower the forks, the second is to move the forks to the left or right, and the last is to tilt the mast. There is also a fourth movement to adjust the fork spacing, otherwise known as positioning. These operations are collectively known as the lateral movement of the truck. The key issue when operating a forklift truck is the appropriate selection of the weight of the load so that its weight does not exceed the maximum capacity of the truck. When loading the goods on the forks, make sure that it lies exactly in the center of the forks. If the load is improperly positioned, it could overbalance the wheelchair to one side and lead to an accident. You should also remember.

Acceleration of the truck

In forklift trucks, not only the forks determine the operation of the entire truck. An equally important parameter is acceleration, i.e. its maximum speed. As trucks work mainly in closed warehouses or warehouse halls, where they have a limited track, it is necessary to introduce speed limits for safety reasons. Fortunately, in practice, it is not the speed alone that determines the efficiency of the truck, but its acceleration. The second important parameter is braking speed as well as lifting and lifting the forks, both with and without a load. These parameters and the operator’s skills determine the time at which individual maneuvers will be performed, both for loading and unloading goods.

The maneuverability and stability of the truck is of key importance when it comes to the ability to maneuver smoothly when negotiating narrow curves between storage racks in a limited space. That is why the turning radius is important, as is the low center of gravity of the trolley and the swinging steering axle. In terms of ergonomics, you should also mention visibility. If the operator has an unlimited field of view, it is the basis for the safety of his work in the warehouse, but also has an important impact on the efficiency or accuracy of his work. Therefore, the truck operator must have as unobstructed view of the forks as possible, but must also clearly see the entire surroundings around the vehicle. To maximize the operator’s field of vision, solutions such as a panoramic mast and a high-positioned seat have been used. The openwork structure of the cab roof also allows for greater visibility of what is happening around the vehicle. As with any vehicle, forklift trucks also have side-mounted mirrors to increase visibility of the surroundings. Mirrors are also installed in the warehouse itself at strategic points.

Summary

Thus, forklifts must meet many criteria to be as efficient as possible, but the manufacturers of forklifts know them very well, which makes them check them as best as possible. However, it is worth getting acquainted with these parameters before buying a stroller in order to buy the best equipment that will serve us long and efficiently. However, it should be remembered that the work of the operator is associated with a great deal of responsibility, and each mistake carries a serious risk. A possible collision, an inaccurately put away pallet or improperly transported goods may pose a threat to the warehouse infrastructure, stored goods, bystanders, and finally the operator himself. Therefore, as important as the forklifts themselves, is their operator, who has to drive them responsibly and in accordance with the rules. This helps to prevent accidents, and damage, be it the ones to which the forklifts themselves, the warehouse or the operator are exposed. It is therefore worth remembering the quality of the truck and the responsibility of its operator, only this will allow it to work effectively and safely.

Polish