When it comes to forklifts, one of the most crucial parts is the mast. It’s what allows the forklift to lift and move heavy loads with ease.
But with so many types and sizes of masts available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about masts to help you make an informed decision.
That brings us to these questions;
- What is a Forklift Mast?
- What is its function?
- How is the forklift mast operated?
- What are the components of the Forklift mast?
- what are the types of the mast?
- Measurement of a Forklift Mast
- Lifting mast heights and extensions.
- How is the forklift Mast made?
- Ordering a Forklift Mast.
- Maintenance and preservation of the Forklift Mast.
What is the Forklift Mast?
A forklift mast is a vertical assembly that raises and lowers the forks of a forklift to enable it to lift and move heavy loads. The mast consists of a series of stacked rails or channels that slide inside each other, powered by hydraulic cylinders or chains.
The mast can be tilted forward or backward to adjust the angle of the forks for different loading and unloading operations.
What is its function?
- A forklift mast is essential for lifting and moving heavy loads in warehouses, construction sites, and other industrial applications.
- The mast enables the forklift to reach high shelves, stack pallets, and maneuver through tight spaces.
- The mast’s tilting function allows for easier load handling, reducing the risk of damage to the goods being transported.
- It can also be fitted with attachments such as side shifters, fork positioners, and clamps for handling different types of loads.
How is the forklift mast operated?
The forklift mast can be operated manually or hydraulically. Manual masts require the operator to use a hand-operated pump to raise and lower the load.
Hydraulic masts, on the other hand, use a hydraulic system to lift and lower the load. The hydraulic system is powered by an electric or diesel engine and allows for much faster and more efficient operation.
The components of the forklift mast.
The forklift mast is made up of several parts, including the lift cylinder, chains, and rollers among others.
- Lift Chains: They’re heavy-duty chains attached to the lifting carriage and run over the mast sheaves. These chains are responsible for lifting and lowering the load.
- Carriage: it is the platform that holds the load and moves up and down along the mast. It is attached to the lift chains and moves with them.
- Mast Channels: They are the vertical columns that make up the mast structure. They provide the necessary support for the carriage and lift chains.
- Roller Bearings: They are mounted on the mast channels and allow the carriage to move smoothly up and down the mast.
- Hydraulic Cylinder: this is the component that powers the lifting function of the forklift mast. It uses pressurized hydraulic fluid to move the lift chains and lift the load.
- Hydraulic Pump: The hydraulic pump is responsible for generating the hydraulic pressure needed to power the hydraulic cylinder.
- Mast Chains: The mast chains are smaller chains that run from the top of the mast to the bottom. They are responsible for keeping the mast straight and stable during lifting and lowering operations.
- Mast Sheaves: The mast sheaves are the pulleys located at the top of the mast. They guide the lift chains and keep them aligned as they move up and down the mast.
- Mast Rails: The mast rails are the horizontal beams that run along the sides of the mast channels. They provide additional support to the mast structure and guide the lift chains.
What are the types of the mast?
There are four types of forklift masts. They include;
Single-Stage Mast
A single-stage mast has only one section that extends upward from the mast.
It is the simplest and most compact type of mast available, making it ideal for use in tight spaces. It provides lift heights of up to 12 feet (3.7 meters).
Two-Stage Mast
A two-stage mast has two sections that extend upward from the forklift mast.
The outer section is wider and provides greater stability when lifting heavier loads, while the inner section is narrower and allows for greater lift heights. It provides lift heights of up to 20 feet (6 meters).
Three-Stage Mast
A three-stage mast has three sections that extend upward from the mast.
The additional section provides greater lift height and allows for the forklift to reach greater heights while maintaining stability. It provides lift heights of up to 23 feet (7 meters).
Four-Stage Mast
A four-stage mast has four sections that extend upward from the mast.
It is the most complex and versatile type of mast available, allowing for greater lift heights and the ability to maneuver in tight spaces. It provides lift heights of up to 28 feet (8.5 meters).
Measurement of a Forklift Mast
Forklift masts come in different sizes and configurations depending on the application.
The height of the mast is measured from the floor to the top of the mast when fully extended.
Forklift masts are typically classified based on the maximum lifting height, load capacity, and the number of stages.
For example, a 3-stage mast may have a maximum lifting height of 15 feet, while a 4-stage mast can reach up to 28 feet.
- Mast height: The mast height refers to the maximum vertical reach of the mast. It is usually measured from the floor to the top of the mast with the forks in the lowest position.
- Load capacity: The load capacity of the forklift mast refers to the maximum weight that the forklift can safely lift.
- Mast tilt: The mast tilt refers to the ability of the mast to tilt forward and backward. It is a useful feature when working on uneven surfaces or when positioning loads on shelves.
- Lowered Height: distance from the floor to the top of the mast when lowered.
- Extended Height: distance from the top of the mast to the load backrest when the mast is fully extended.
- Lift Height: distance from the mast to the floor when the mast is fully extended.
Lifting mast heights and extensions.
The lifting mast height of a forklift refers to the maximum height to which the forklift can lift a load.
The lifting mast height varies depending on the forklift’s tonnage, which refers to its carrying capacity or maximum load capacity.
Generally speaking, the higher the forklift’s tonnage, the higher its lifting mast height.
Here’s a general guideline for forklift lifting mast heights based on tonnage:
Construction of the Forklift Mast
Forklift masts are typically made from high-strength steel and aluminum alloy， manufactured through a process of welding and machining.
The various sections of the mast are fabricated and then welded together to create a sturdy structure.
The mast is composed of several sections, including the base, intermediate, and carriage sections.
The base section is attached to the forklift frame and provides support for the entire mast. The intermediate section houses the lift cylinder, while the carriage section holds the load.
Ordering a Forklift Mast
When ordering a forklift mast, it is essential to consider, including the
- Forklift’s load capacity.
- Maximum lifting height.
- The number of stages.
- Attachment compatibility.
Maintenance and preservation of the Forklift Mast.
Preservative measures for the forklift mast include;
Applying a protective coating to the mast’s steel components to prevent rust and corrosion.
Regular lubrication of the mast’s moving parts also helps ensure smooth and efficient operation.
In conclusion, the forklift mast is a critical component of the forklift, responsible for lifting and lowering loads.
Its size and strength significantly impact the forklift’s performance, and choosing the right mast is essential.
Regular maintenance and safety measures are necessary to ensure the mast’s safe and efficient operation.
By understanding the forklift mast’s function and construction, operators can ensure that their forklifts are operating at peak performance
Congratulations, you’re now a mast expert after reading our blog post!
How does the mast affect the overall lifting capacity of a forklift?
Feel free to put down your answer in the comment section below.
