The Hydraulic System of a Pallet Truck

A pallet truck (also known as a pump truck or a pallet jack) is a wheeled trolley that lifts and transports loads on wooden pallets. There are various types of pallet trucks on the market to suit specific applications.

Powered or electric pallet trucks are ideal for intensive internal transport. They offer high speeds, a quick charge and a greater visibility to navigate narrow aisles and vast warehouse floors safely.

Hydraulic system

The hydraulic system of a pallet truck is responsible for the lifting and transportation of pallets. It is made up of a pump, cylinder, and valves. The pump is responsible for forcing hydraulic oil into the cylinder. When the hydraulic piston in the cylinder extends, it raises the forks. The hydraulic cylinder also contains two large steer wheels, which are used to maneuver the pallet truck through warehouse aisles.

A heavy-duty pedestrian powered pallet truck has a longer shift life and lower costs than other models. It also offers a high response speed, allowing it to keep up with demanding operations. However, this type of pallet truck is only suitable for indoor use. It can be dangerous to operate on a slope or near an object that could block its path.

Pallet trucks are easy to use, but they must be properly inspected and tested before each use. This ensures that they are safe and ready to work. If the pallet truck has a problem, it’s important to repair it before it damages merchandise or pallet truck hurts someone. A few simple repairs can fix most issues, including a leaky hydraulic pump. To fix a leaky hydraulic pump, simply remove the cover from the pump and bleed air out of the system. Then, drain the hydraulic fluid and re-fill it with fresh fluid.

Forks

A pallet truck is a great piece of material handling equipment that helps businesses to save time and effort. This is because the machine allows employees to do multiple tasks at once. This means they can work with less fatigue and increase their productivity. The equipment is also a great way to boost health and safety in the workplace. This is because it allows workers to handle materials without using their hands, which reduces the risk of accidents and injuries.

Generally, pallet trucks have two forks that rest on load wheels and are supported by a hydraulic pump, steer wheels, and a tow bar. To operate the truck, the operator must shift the operating lever into the “lift” position. This closes the lowering valve, allowing the hydraulic oil to stay in the lifting cylinder. The operator then pumps the handle, which causes the forks to rise and lower as needed.

The forks are adjustable to fit a variety of pallet truck different sizes. This feature is especially useful in warehouses that store different types of products. Some forks can even be folded down for improved handling and storage. This will help you to use the truck in tight spaces and will also free up more space for other materials. Additionally, some pallet jacks come with a weighing scale, which lets you weigh your load as you drive it around.

Steer wheels

The steering wheels of a pallet truck enable it to maneuver in tight spaces. They rotate through a 200-degree range, and are manipulated using the control lever. They also have an articulation design that makes it easier to maneuver in and out of trailers and across dock plates. The wheels also have metal ramps that allow you to roll onto and off of a pallet.

They are made of polyurethane on a steel axle. The tread is molded to the hub and is what contacts the floor. The most common tread materials are nylon and polyurethane. A molded wheel is stronger than a cast wheel and more durable than a pressed wheel. The wheels also feature a bearing to reduce friction and prevent damage.

Choosing the right wheels for your pallet truck depends on where you work and what your requirements are. Nylon wheels are tough and can withstand rough surfaces like cold freezers and debris-filled warehouses. But they can be noisy and leave marks on the floor, so they aren’t ideal for retail spaces.

On the other hand, polyurethane wheels are quieter and won’t mark or scratch floors. If your facility has a mix of rough and smooth areas, it’s best to get one pallet truck with nylon wheels for distribution areas and another with polyurethane wheels for retail spaces.

Control lever

The control lever of a pallet truck is the mechanism that allows the operator to drive and lift the load. It also includes a set of buttons and switches that facilitate various functions. The front buttons on the control handle are typically speed controls that determine the jack’s pace, while the back button initiates lifting and lowering operations. It may also include a horn or alarm button for safety and signaling purposes.

The hydraulic pump at the base of the control handlebar provides the power to raise and lower the forks. The two steer wheels below the control handlebar maneuver the pallet jack as needed. The load wheels underneath the forks are used to transport the load. The actuating lever is attached to the load wheels by a pivot pin. The actuating lever is usually made of metal for durability.

When the actuating lever is in the neutral position, it disengages the hydraulic system and makes the forks go into the down position. Pump the handle to lower the prongs until there is a clearance of about one inch between the floor and the bottom of the forks. Then, move the pallet jack to the location where it is to be moved.

When moving a load, remember to keep the jack at a slow speed to avoid causing injury or damage to the load. Also, be aware of the load capacity and never surpass it.