There are at least three cylinders used on a forklift: lift cylinder, tilt cylinder and the power steering cylinder.
Forklift Hydraulics: Lift Cylinder
The lift cylinder(s) accepts the largest volume of fluid flow or gallons-per-minute (GPM). It is a single-acting hydraulic cylinder, pushing in only one direction. The control valve directs fluid to the cylinder and rod when placed in lift position.
When the control valve is put into lowering position, the weight of the upright, loaded or empty, forces the fluid back through the return lines to the sump (tank). A flow control valve located in the main line to the lift cylinders regulates the backflow so that lowering is smooth. Gravity is not allowed to drop the load uncontrolled.
Forklift Hydraulics: Tilt Cylinder
The tilt cylinder is a double-acting hydraulic cylinder, meaning it can both push and pull its load. Generally, there are two tilt cylinders on the forklift, connecting the left and right stationary rails of the upright assembly to the frame. This feature provides uniform control when tilting forward or reverse and prevents the upright from flexing from side to side when the forklift is operating.
Forklift Hydraulics: Power Steering Cylinder
The power steering cylinder is a double-acting cylinder that is able to exert equal force in opposite directions. This is necessary to push the wheels in two directions for left or right turns. In electric forklifts, the power steering hydraulic components operate off a separate pump. In internal combustion forklifts, the power steering components operate off the same pump used for the other hydraulic components.
Looking for answers on your forklift hydraulics? ProLift Toyota Material Handling is a full-service forklift dealer. Our certified technicians are trained for all makes and models of forklifts.
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