What Is a Footlift?
A footlift is a device for lifting heavy objects.
By operating the lift hydraulically with a foot pedal, it can lift heavy objects like a forklift. Some models are equipped with casters for mobility, while others are fixed to the floor.
Unlike the electro-hydraulic type, an external power source is not required. It can be used in any location, but it requires dozens of footsteps to lift it high. In addition, the load capacity of a Footlift is smaller than that of an electro-hydraulic type.
Uses of Footlifts
Footlifts are mainly used in factories and warehouses to improve the efficiency of transport operations. Not only are they important machines for efficient and safe transport operations, but their various uses contribute to improving operational efficiency and reducing the workload of workers in factories and warehouses.
1. Loading and Unloading
Footlifts are used to efficiently load and unload heavy loads. For example, they can be used to quickly and safely transport large quantities of goods for loading onto trucks or handling goods in warehouses.
2. Placing Loads on Shelves
In factories and warehouses, where loads need to be placed on high shelves or racks, Footlifts are ideal for helping workers reach heights and accurately position loads. This allows for easy movement and organization of goods, resulting in more efficient use of space.
3. Transportation of Construction Materials
Large quantities of construction materials are used on construction sites. Footlifts are useful for transporting heavy materials and equipment. For example, heavy materials such as concrete blocks and steel frames can be easily and quickly moved around the site.
Principles of Footlifts
A fixed type can lift heavy objects to high places, and with casters, the lift can be moved to another location while it is being lifted. Footlifts have a release lever to lower the lift.
When the lever is pulled, the oil inside the cylinder that raises the lift is released, and the lift is lowered. The lift is also equipped with a carriage for carrying items. The operator can raise or lower the lift dolly by getting on the Footlift and using the control panel.
If the forklift is a lift type, it is possible to lift items and load them directly onto a truck or other vehicle. Other safety devices are also provided. For example, limit switches limit the lift truck’s ascent and descent. Emergency stop switches are very important because they immediately stop the lift operation if a problem occurs during operation.
Types of Footlifts
There are various types of footlifts primarily used for transportation in factories:
1. Manual Footlift
A manual Footlift is a manually operated lift. The operator turns a handle to raise or lower the lift truck. The advantage of the manual type is that it does not require electricity and is suitable for simple tasks and small-scale load transport. Since it is operated manually, it requires the operator’s strength and skill.
2. Electric Footlift
An electric footlift is a type of lift driven by an electric motor. The lift truck can be raised and lowered by the power of the motor. The advantage of the electric type is that it reduces the burden on the operator and enables efficient transport operations. It is also suitable for continuous use and for transporting heavy loads.
3. Hydraulic Footlift
A hydraulic footlift is a type of lift that uses hydraulic pressure to raise and lower a lift truck. A motor drives a hydraulic pump, which supplies hydraulic pressure to the hydraulic cylinder. The advantage of the hydraulic system is that it provides stable raising and lowering. It is suitable when heavy loads need to be transported or high positions need to be reached.
4. Low-Floor Footlift
A low-floor footlift is a type of lift in which the lift truck is installed close to the ground. This makes it easier to load and unload cargo from the ground and transfer it to a vehicle. The advantage of the low floor type is to reduce the workload and increase operator safety.