Are you researching forklifts and want to understand the key technical specifications? Truck load capacity, also known as load capacity, is a crucial factor to consider. This fundamental specification determines the forklift’s ability to lift and transport goods. This article from Xe Tải Mỹ Đình experts will help you understand truck load capacity and other forklift specifications, ensuring you have the knowledge to select and use forklifts effectively.
I. Decoding “Truck Load Capacity” and its Significance
Truck load capacity refers to the maximum weight of goods a forklift can safely lift and transport. It is commonly measured in kilograms (kg) or tons (ton). For example, a forklift with a load capacity of 2500 kg can lift goods weighing up to 2500 kg.
Forklift in operation in a warehouse, demonstrating lifting and moving goods
However, it’s important to note that forklift load capacity is not a fixed number. It can vary depending on factors such as:
- Lift Height: As the forklift lifts goods higher, the actual lifting capacity decreases compared to the rated capacity due to changes in the center of gravity and stability.
- Fork Type: Using specialized attachments like clamps or other accessories instead of standard forks can reduce the lifting capacity. These attachments have their own weight and can alter the load-bearing points.
- Load Center: The distance from the center of gravity of the load to the front of the forks. A larger load center reduces the safe lifting capacity.
Understanding truck load capacity helps you:
- Choose the Right Forklift: Ensure the forklift can meet your business’s actual lifting needs.
- Operate Safely: Avoid overloading, which can endanger operators, goods, and the forklift itself.
- Optimize Performance: Using the forklift within its load capacity helps extend its lifespan and improve work efficiency.
II. Exploring Other Important Forklift Specifications
Besides “truck load capacity” (Load capacity), forklifts have other technical specifications you need to understand for optimal use and selection. Here’s a detailed explanation of these specifications:
1. Load Center
Load center is the distance from the center of gravity of the load to the vertical plane passing through the front axle of the forklift. This specification directly affects the actual lifting capacity of the forklift. Manufacturers typically publish the rated load capacity of forklifts based on a standard load center (usually 500mm or 600mm).
Illustration of load center on forklift forks, showing the distance from the load's center of gravity to the axle
When the actual load center is larger than the standard load center, the safe lifting capacity of the forklift decreases. Therefore, you need to accurately determine the load center of the goods to ensure safe and efficient lifting.
2. Lift Height
Lift height is the distance measured from the ground to the top edge of the forks when raised to the highest position. This specification determines the ability to load and unload goods onto high shelves or into elevated locations.
Reach truck lifting goods onto a high shelf in a warehouse, illustrating lift height
Depending on the usage needs and warehouse characteristics, you can choose a forklift with a suitable lift height. Different types of forklifts have different lift heights, ranging from a few meters to over 10 meters.
3. Free Lift
Free lift is the distance the forks can lift from the ground without the mast rising. This specification is particularly important when working in spaces with limited headroom, such as containers or warehouses with low ceilings.
Diagram illustrating free lift, the portion where the forks rise without the mast moving
A forklift with a large free lift will be more flexible when working in height-restricted environments.
4. Operator Position, Type of Drive, Type of Operation
Operator position forklifts come in several types, the most common being:
- Stand-up: Space-saving, flexible in tight spaces, suitable for small warehouses.
- Sit-on: More comfortable for the operator, suitable for continuous work and long-distance travel.
In addition, the operator position is related to the type of drive (e.g., electric, diesel, gasoline, gas) and the type of operation (e.g., electric automatic, mechanical).
5. Tilt Angle
Tilt angle is the angle at which the mast can tilt forward or backward from the vertical position. The tilt angle makes it easier and safer to pick up and place goods, especially when working on uneven terrain or when loading and unloading irregularly shaped goods.
6. Length to Face Fork
Length to face fork determines the overall length of the forklift, excluding the length of the forks. This specification is important when calculating the space needed for the forklift to move and work, especially in warehouses with narrow aisles.
7. Turning Radius
Turning radius is the radius of the smallest circle the forklift can make when steering at full lock. A smaller turning radius makes the forklift more maneuverable in tight spaces. This specification is crucial for forklifts working in confined warehouses.
8. Right Aisle Stacking Aisle Width
Right aisle stacking aisle width is the minimum aisle width required for a forklift to move forward or backward and then turn at a right angle to either side. This specification is particularly important for stand-up electric forklifts and other forklifts working in narrow aisle warehouses.
9. Ground Clearance
Ground clearance is the distance from the ground to the lowest point of the forklift’s undercarriage. This specification determines the forklift’s ability to move on rough terrain or over obstacles. A forklift with high ground clearance will perform better on uneven surfaces.
10. Mast Lowered Height and Mast Extended Height
Mast lowered height determines the forklift’s ability to pass through doorways or spaces with limited headroom. Mast extended height indicates the maximum height of the forklift when the forks are raised to the highest position, which needs to be considered when working in warehouses with limited ceiling height.
11. Backrest Height
Backrest height, also known as load backrest height, is important when lifting box-shaped goods or stacked goods. It indicates the backrest’s ability to protect goods from falling backward when lifted high.
12. Fork Spread
Fork spread is the adjustable distance between the two forks. This specification allows the forklift to handle goods of different sizes. The larger the adjustable fork spread, the more flexible the forklift is in lifting various types of goods.
13. Max. Drawbar Pull
Max. Drawbar Pull is the maximum pulling force the forklift can generate to tow other heavy objects. This specification is important when using the forklift to pull goods, such as pulling goods out of a container.
14. Auto-lock Suspension System
Auto-lock suspension system is an important safety feature, especially on modern electric forklifts. When the operator leaves the driver’s seat, the system automatically locks the movement and lifting functions and issues a warning, helping prevent accidents caused by the forklift moving or operating unintentionally when no one is in control.
15. Grade Ability
Grade ability indicates the maximum slope the forklift can climb when loaded and unloaded. This specification is important when the forklift has to work on slopes or inclines.
16. Travel Speed
Travel speed is the maximum speed of the forklift when traveling with and without a load. Travel speed affects work efficiency and task completion time.
III. Conclusion
Understanding “truck load capacity” (load capacity) and other forklift specifications is crucial for selecting and using forklifts effectively and safely. This article from Xe Tải Mỹ Đình has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the most important specifications. Hopefully, with this knowledge, you will feel more confident in making decisions and operating forklifts optimally. If you have any questions or need further advice, do not hesitate to contact us for dedicated support!
