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Quick Reference Manual for Electric Forklift Terminology

Quick Reference Manual for Electric Forklift Terminology

This manual categorizes terminology based on four core dimensions: "Power & Energy, Structure, Performance & Operation, and Safety & Auxiliary". It labels the core function of each term for easy and quick reference and understanding.

Electric Forklift Terminology

I. Power & Energy Category

TermCore Function
BatteryThe power source of an electric forklift. It is divided into lead-acid batteries (low cost, heavy weight) and lithium-ion batteries (fast charging, long service life), which directly determine the forklift's endurance.
Traction MotorConverts electrical energy into mechanical energy to control the forklift's traveling speed and traction. It has two types: DC (direct current) motor and AC (alternating current) motor.
ChargerA device used to recharge the battery, which must match the type of battery. It includes regular chargers (slow charging) and fast chargers.
Battery Management System (BMS)Monitors the status of the battery, prevents overcharging and over-discharging, extends the battery's service life, and ensures electrical safety.

II. Core Structure Category

TermCore Function
MastA lifting frame connecting the forklift body and forks, composed of inner and outer masts. It determines the maximum lifting height of goods.
ForksComponents that directly carry goods, mostly replaceable standard parts. Different specifications can be selected according to the size of the goods.
CounterweightA weight block installed at the rear of the forklift to balance the weight of goods and prevent the forklift from tipping forward during operation (common in counterbalanced electric forklifts).
ControllerThe "control center" of the forklift. It adjusts the motor speed, controls lifting actions, and has an overload protection function.
Lifting CylinderA hydraulic component that provides power for mast lifting. It drives the forks to move up and down through the pressure of hydraulic oil.
Steering Wheels / Drive WheelsSteering wheels control the traveling direction, while drive wheels provide traveling power. Together, they ensure the flexibility of the forklift's movement.

III. Performance & Operation Category

TermCore Function
Rated Load CapacityThe maximum weight that a forklift can safely carry under standard operating conditions (Unit: t). It is a core parameter for forklift selection.
Maximum Lifting HeightThe vertical distance between the upper surface of the forks (when raised to the highest position) and the ground (Unit: m). It determines the upper limit of stacking height.
Minimum Turning RadiusThe minimum radius of the trajectory of the outer wheels when the forklift turns. It directly affects the forklift's ability to pass through narrow spaces.
Endurance TimeThe continuous operation time of the forklift when fully charged (usually 4-8 hours), which is affected by battery capacity and operation intensity.
Operating HandleIntegrates functions of traveling, lifting, and tilting control. The operator can precisely control the forklift's actions through the handle.
Instrument PanelDisplays key data of the forklift, such as battery power, traveling speed, and fault codes, to help the operator grasp the equipment status.

IV. Safety & Auxiliary Category

TermCore Function
Overhead GuardA metal frame installed above the driver's seat to protect the driver from falling objects.
Limit SwitchInstalled on parts such as the mast. It automatically cuts off the power supply when the forks reach the maximum or minimum height to prevent component damage.
Warning Lights / AlarmsRemind people around. They include turn signals (indicating turning), reverse warning lights, and buzzers (indicating reversing).
Braking SystemControls the forklift to decelerate or stop, including service brakes (for deceleration during traveling) and parking brakes (for fixing the forklift when parked).
Rearview MirrorsInstalled on both sides of the forklift body to expand the driver's field of vision, reduce blind spots, and avoid collisions during operation.


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