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"Pallet truck" redirects here. For the powered industrial moving truck, see forklift

A pallet jack, also known as a pallet truck or pallet pump, is a tool used to lift and move pallets. Pallet jacks are the most basic form of a forklift and are intended to move pallets within a warehouse.

Operational principle

The jack is steered by a tiller-like lever called a 'tow bar' that also acts on the pump piston for raising the forks. A small lever on the tow bar's steering handle releases the hydraulic fluid, causing the forks to lower. The steering wheels are located directly below the tow bar and support the jacking mechanism. The front wheels inside the end of the forks are mounted on push rods attached to linkages that go to levers attached to the jack cylinder. As the hydraulic jack at the 'tiller' end is raised, the links force the wheels down, raising the forks vertically above the front wheels, raising the load upward until it clears the floor. The pallet is only lifted enough to clear the floor for subsequent travel. Oftentimes, pallet jacks are used to move and organize pallets inside a trailer, especially when there is no forklift truck access or availability.

Operating mechanism

• Pallet jack in lowered position, allowing it to be inserted under a load on a pallet

• Jack showing how wheels drop, lifting forks and load. The steering tiller and raised hydraulic cylinder are clearly visible on the right

• Underside of a jack showing linkages under forks

History

Manual pallet jacks have existed since at least 1918. Early types lifted the forks and load only by mechanical linkages. More modern type uses a hand pumped hydraulic jack to lift.

Types

Manual pallet jack

A manual pallet jack is a hand-powered jack most commonly seen in retail and personal warehousing operations. They are used predominantly for lifting, lowering and steering pallets from one place to another.

Powered pallet jack

Powered pallet jacks, also known as electric pallet trucks, walkies, single or double pallet jacks, or power jack, are motorized to allow lifting and moving of heavier and stacked pallets. Some contain a platform for the user to stand while moving pallets. The powered pallet jack is generally moved by a throttle on the handle to move forward or in reverse and steered by swinging the handle in the intended direction. Some contain a type of dead man's switch rather than a brake to stop the machine should the user need to stop quickly or leave the machine while it is in use. Others use a system known as "plugging" wherein the driver turns the throttle from forward to reverse (or vice versa) to slow and stop the machine, as the dead man's switch is used in emergencies only.

Rough terrain pallet jack

Rough terrain pallet jacks are designed specifically for use on uneven ground. They are made using heavy-duty frames and robust pneumatic tyres so that they can be manoeuvred over rough surfaces with ease. Many manufacturers opt for watertight wheel bearings, a hydraulic elevator or a built-in pump to ensure their rough terrain pallet jacks are easy and comfortable to use, even in the harshest conditions.

Operational limitations

• Reversible pallets cannot be used.
• Double-faced non-reversible pallets cannot have deck-boards where the front wheels extend to the floor.
• Enables only two-way entry into a four-way notched-stringer pallet, because the forks cannot be inserted into the notches.
• Power jacks have difficulty in confined spaces (coolers) and narrow openings.

Operational risks

Pallet jacks are classed as material-handling equipment (MHE). Under most health and safety law, training is required in their use (particularly for powered pallet jacks) and, as the loads carried are heavy, there is a substantial risk of accidents resulting in injuries.

Typical dimensions

Industry seems to have 'standardized' pallet jacks in several ways:

• Width of each of two forks: 180 mm (7 in)
• Fork width, i.e. The dimension between the outer edges of the forks: Available as 510 and 690 mm (

  20

  +

  1

  ⁄

  4

  and 27 in)
• Fork length: Available as 910, 1,070 and 1,220 mm (36, 42 and 48 in)
• Lowered height: 74 mm (2.9 in)
• Raised height: At least 190 mm (7.5 in), but some will raise higher

In Eurasia the overall dimensions are similar, as modern container palletization has forced standardization in the dimensional domain globally.

For more information, please visit Hydraulic Hand Trolley.

See also

References

The Advantage of Hydraulic Hand Pallet Truck in Mastering ...

The Advantage of Hydraulic Hand Pallet Truck in Mastering Material Handling

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Oct 27, 2023

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Introduction

In the world of material handling Hydraulic hand pallet trucks are the backbone of efficient and safe goods movement, particularly in industries that rely on the seamless transfer of materials. To help you navigate the decision-making process effectively, we’ll dive into the details of both hand pallet trucks and hydraulic pallet trucks, comparing their features, benefits, and ideal applications.

Overview of Hydraulic Pallet Truck

Definition of Hydraulic Hand Pallet Truck

A Hydraulic Hand Pallet Truck, commonly known as a pallet jack, is a mechanical workhorse designed to lift and transport heavy loads with ease. Unlike manual pallet trucks, hydraulic ones are powered by a hydraulic pump system, reducing the physical effort required from the operator.

How Hydraulic Hand Pallet Trucks Work?

Hydraulic pallet trucks operate on a straightforward principle. When the operator pumps the handle, it activates the hydraulic pump, creating pressure in the hydraulic fluid. This pressure is then used to raise the forks, enabling the lifting of heavy loads. The hydraulic system provides a smooth and controlled lifting action.

Advantages of Hydraulic Hand Pallet Trucks

1. Efficiency: Hydraulic pallet trucks are known for their efficiency in material handling. The hydraulic system allows for precise control over lifting and lowering, resulting in quicker load transfers and increased productivity.
2. Operator Comfort: Operators experience less physical strain when using hydraulic pallet trucks. This reduced physical effort minimizes the risk of operator fatigue and related injuries, ensuring a safer working environment.
3. Heavy-Duty Performance: Hydraulic pallet trucks are capable of handling substantial loads, making them indispensable for industries with heavy lifting requirements, such as manufacturing and logistics.

Types of Hydraulic Hand Pallet Trucks

Hydraulic pallet trucks come in various types, each catering to specific applications:

1. Electric Hydraulic Pallet Trucks:

These are powered by an Battery and are ideal for applications requiring frequent and extended use. They are common in warehousing and logistics.

2. Manual Hydraulic Pallet Trucks:

These are manually operated and are suitable for less frequent use or smaller-scale operations. They are commonly found in retail settings.

Battery Operated vs. Hydraulic Pallet Trucks

While hydraulic pallet trucks have their advantages, manual pallet trucks should not be overlooked:

1. Cost: Manual pallet trucks are more budget-friendly initially, making them suitable for businesses with tight budgets.
2. Simplicity: Manual pallet trucks have fewer components, resulting in lower maintenance costs and ease of use.
3. Maneuverability: Their compact design allows for easy navigation in tight spaces and crowded aisles.

Features and Components of hydraulic pallet trucks

Understanding the key features and components of hydraulic pallet trucks is essential when considering their suitability for specific tasks:

1. Hydraulic Pump:

This component is the heart of the hydraulic pallet truck, responsible for creating hydraulic pressure to lift the forks.

2. Load Capacity:

Hydraulic pallet trucks come in various load capacities, so it’s crucial to select one that matches the weight of the loads you typically handle.

3. Fork Length and Width:

The dimensions of the forks determine the size and shape of the loads you can handle. Customizable options are available for specialized requirements.

4. Wheels and Rollers:

The wheels and rollers facilitate smooth movement and steering, ensuring easy maneuverability in different environments.

5. Handle and Controls:

The handle houses the controls, allowing operators to raise, lower, and steer the pallet truck with precision.

Applications and Industries

Hydraulic hand pallet trucks find their applications across various industries:

1. Warehousing and Logistics:

In warehouses, hydraulic pallet trucks streamline the movement of goods, exp