A forklift’s mast is the vertical tower structure that does the actual lifting. Often considered the backbone of a forklift, masts come in different configurations and heights to suit various materials handling needs. Understanding mast types and factors like lift height and capacity helps ensure you choose the right forklift for optimal safety and productivity.
At TAG Forklifts, we offer an extensive range of forklifts for sale or hire with masts engineered to handle lightweight to heavy-duty loading applications. Our experts can advise you on selecting the ideal mast and forklift that matches your workload requirements.
Below, we examine the key mast factors you should consider when purchasing or renting a forklift.
What Exactly is a Forklift Mast?
The forklift mast, also known as the upright, is the vertical structure at the front of a forklift responsible for lifting, lowering and positioning loads. Imagine it as a telescoping tower that allows you to manoeuvre pallets, machinery and other materials at various heights.
Forklift masts are comprised of several key components working together seamlessly:
Mast Sections
These are the interlocking steel channels that form the core structure of the mast. Masts typically come in two, three or even four sections (simplex, duplex, triplex and quad masts) to achieve different lift heights.
Lift Cylinders (Hydraulic Cylinders)
These powerhouse components are essentially pistons housed within cylinders. Hydraulic fluid pressurises the cylinders, causing the mast sections to extend and retract, raising and lowering the forks.
Carriage and Load Backrest
The carriage is a steel frame that slides within the mast sections. It directly attaches to the forks or other attachments and houses the load backrest, preventing cargo from toppling backwards.
Why is the Forklift Mast So Important?
Based on the basic anatomy of a forklift mast, we can appreciate its significance in material handling operations:
Lift Height
The mast’s primary function is to elevate loads to specific heights. Warehouses often have high racking systems, and the right mast type ensures you can reach and retrieve materials efficiently.
Versatility
Forklift masts enable you to handle different loads. By adjusting the mast’s tilt angle (forward or backward tilt), you can safely secure loads at varying angles for stacking or placing them on uneven surfaces.
Stability
A well-maintained mast is crucial for forklift stability. Regular inspections and proper maintenance practices ensure the mast’s structural integrity and prevent potential tipping hazards.
What Are the Different Forklift Mast Types?
Selecting the appropriate forklift mast type depends on several factors, including your typical load weight, required lift height and workplace environment. Here’s a breakdown of the most common forklift mast types:
- Simplex mast – This is the most basic mast configuration, offering a limited lift height due to its two-stage design (one stationary rail and one movable inner rail). It’s ideal for low-level applications or situations where space is a problem.
- Two-stage masts – A popular choice for its balance between lift height and overall mast height, the duplex mast features a two-stage design with full free lift. It’s suitable for a broader range of applications than simplex masts.
- Three-stage masts – Offering an extended lift height due to its three-stage design (two movable rails and one stationary rail), the triplex mast is ideal for warehouses with high racking systems while maintaining full free lift functionality.
- Four-stage masts -The quad mast boasts the greatest lift heights due to its four-stage design (four sets of rails and an additional set of chains), making it perfect for exceptionally tall storage facilities while offering full free lift.
Raising the Mast with TAG
At TAG Forklifts, we understand that selecting the perfect forklift mast is essential for optimising your operations. Our knowledgeable team can guide you through the various mast types, lift heights and functionalities to ensure you get the right forklift for the job.
We offer a vast selection of forklift trucks for hire, sale, and service, all equipped with reliable masts to meet your specific material handling needs. Furthermore, our expert technicians provide comprehensive maintenance and repair services to keep your forklift masts functioning optimally and safely.
Contact TAG Forklifts today to discuss your forklift mast requirements and discover how we can help you elevate your material handling efficiency.
