What the forklift rear axle is used for: an explanation of counterbalance - Colarusso Noleggi di Michele Colarusso

What the forklift rear axle is used for: an explanation of counterbalance

The role of the forklift is to lift and transport loads of various capacities, while keeping its grip on the object. 

Forks, masts and axles help it in each of these phases, making it practical and easy to use. 

The forklift gets its power from the engine, which can be electric, diesel, or gas-powered. The engine transmits power to the individual components of the forklift, which work in symbiosis to take care of the load and its transport.  

There are different types of forklifts, differing in their use and technical specifications. 

Among all of them, the counterbalanced forklift is probably a favorite among businesses; safe and functional just as you would expect from an exceptional forklift, which knows how to handle any irregularity and carry heavy weights. 

Today, we will try to explain the operation mechanism of the counterbalanced forklift as best we can, focusing on the role of the rear and front axle. 

Let’s get started!

Why counterbalanced? 

The question comes naturally, why is this special forklift called a counterbalanced truck? 

The name’ s choice is related to the presence of a large iron counterbalance placed in the back of the machine (the rear axle). 

The weight, located in front of the support point, manages to balance the forklift and make it as stable and safe as possible. 

In a sense, the counterbalanced forklift is comparable to an automobile, with similar balancing characteristics. Just like a car, it can handle the unevenness of the ground and ” absorb” it, avoiding jolts or crashes that can damage the goods.  

Speaking of the technical structure of the counterbalanced forklift, it is important to describe in more detail two basic elements: 

• Rear Axle
  The rear axle is often referred to as the “drive axle.” This specific element enables movement and ensures successful load shifting. Without the rear axle, the forklift would not be able to do its job properly; it would lose strength and resistance.

   

• Front Axle
  The front axle goes by the name “steering axle.” It is responsible for the overall balance of the forklift. Its role is to absorb shocks and successfully overcome all potential terrain irregularities. It works to keep the forklift on the right track, preventing accidents and negating any possibility of load loss.

   

The rear axle and front axle work together to provide balance and speed to the entire counterbalanced forklift. We are talking about two different forces, but they promote and push to achieve the same result.  

Their presence increases the overall safety level of the tool, helping individual drivers and all those who purchase forklifts for load shifting.

Conclusions

In so many cases, especially when there is a need to transport heavy and “delicate” loads (which absolutely cannot tip over), the use of a counterbalanced forklift is more than recommended. 

That’s because it prevents the load from falling apart, absorbing unevenness in the ground and providing maximum grip. 

The rear axle, in particular, is the engine around which the entire truck revolves. Its presence is indispensable, an element that is really impossible to give up.  

Compared with conventional models, the counterbalanced version is safer and more practical, suitable even for those who have to work in tight spaces.  

If you are looking for an optimal solution for your load transport, this may turn out to be the best alternative available to you. Good luck!