What is a forklift boom and what are its functions?

forklift with telescopic boom

Forklifts are devices used for the close transport of large, heavy or bulky loads. Thanks to the fact that they can be equipped with additional equipment, they can fulfill various functions. This makes them irreplaceable machines in many industries. One of the elements that will help increase the functionality of this type of equipment is boom for a forklift. This purchase will help you save time and money - forklift with telescopic boom it can replace several other expensive construction machines. How does such a boom work and what can it be used for?

What is a forklift boom? Construction and principle of operation

A forklift is most often used to move heavy goods horizontally. However, its standard equipment only allows limited movement of loads on a vertical plane. Due to the characteristic structure of the carriage and forks of the vehicle, its working range is not very large. It is also adapted to the architectural specificity of warehouse buildings or large-format stores. Forklift boom in turn, it allows you to expand the functionality of this machine and slightly improve its technical performance.

But what is it? boom for a forklift? This is a movable arm that is mounted directly on the forklift teeth using special clamps (characteristic for each brand and model) or rests on a vertical lift.

This arm is composed of several segments and a "joint" that allows you to move the boom on various planes in a precise way and facilitates maneuvering the load. How much the boom moves depends on the number of segments and the type of their connection. In fact boom for forklifts its structure and operating mechanics resemble the boom of loaders or basket lifts.

Types of forklift booms

There are many different types of booms available on the market. In most common use they are forklifts with telescopic booms. In this type of vehicle, there is an arm usually composed of two segments, one of which can move in a piston motion in the other. This allows you to easily increase the working range and move goods to very high heights.

Forklifts with telescopic boom they are also characterized by high load capacity, stability and high work safety. Popular types of these work attachments are:

  • Adjustable booms – they increase the mobility of the machine, enabling efficient operation even in difficult field conditions.
  • Booms with a hook – a feature that distinguishes this type boom for forklifts, is a way of mounting the load for transport. In this boom model, the goods are not loaded from the bottom (as in other construction machines and on standard forklift teeth), but suspended.
  • Booms with winches – they are equipped with a mechanism that allows lifting objects mounted on a rope. This allows the forklift to take over the work typical of construction cranes. Ensures stable and safe operation with heavy loads.
forklift with telescopic boom
Thanks to the telescopic boom, the forklift is perfect for the construction industry

What are the advantages of using telescopic boom forklifts?

Forklifts with telescopic lift or other types of arms work very well in construction work or in industrial plants, as well as in agricultural work.

Benefits of use booms for forklifts have:

  • ability to carry oversized loads that would not fit on the forks;
  • possibility of transporting goods that cannot be properly secured and which, when carried on standard forklift teeth, could pose a threat to people and property;
  • increasing the working height - the boom allows you to lift loads even to several times greater height;
  • increased reach - due to the high mobility of the arm, a forklift equipped with a boom allows you to place the load almost anywhere;
  • the ability to easily bypass an obstacle without the need for tedious maneuvering of the vehicle.

It can be seen that even the simplest boom design can significantly expand the functionality of a forklift.

How to choose a boom for a forklift?

Due to the fact that forklifts work with large and equally heavy loads, the machine and accessories must be fully operational and functional. A boom that does not match the machine model or its technical parameters significantly increases the risk of device failure or an accident at work. Its selection must precisely correspond to all equipment ratings and be adapted to the specifics of the work.

Before purchase boom for a forklift so consider the following:

  • the structure and mechanics of the boom, which correspond to the working conditions and allow the machine to maneuver freely;
  • adjusting the boom to the maximum load of the machine to avoid construction damage and threats to people's health and life;
  • compatibility of the boom with a specific forklift model, especially when it comes to the method of mounting the accessories.

Above all, make sure you choose one boom for a forklift was in good technical condition. If you decide to purchase used equipment, check its history of use and possible repairs. Always choose equipment from a trusted source, with full technical documentation. Thanks to this, you will be able to avoid forklift breakdowns and accidents at work. Health and human life have no price.
Looking for boom for a forklift? Check our offer or contact us! We will help you choose equipment tailored to your needs!