Hand Pallet Jack – Using the Right Material Handling Equipment to Improve Efficiency
Using the right material handling equipment helps workers complete important tasks quickly and safely. These basic machines are used by virtually every industry to transport products and materials from storage areas to production lines.
When selecting a hand pallet jack for your application, consider factors like the amount of weight you need to move and if stairs will be involved. Look for models designed for cold environments and rough terrain as well.
Lifting and Unloading
Manual pallet jacks are used to effectively transport rough wooden platforms known as pallets or skids that contain goods arriving from trucks in warehouses, distribution centers and retail stores. These simple machines make the job of loading and unloading material much easier, reducing strain on workers and cutting costs in the long run.
Pallet jacks are powered manually through the operator’s own force, eliminating the need for electronic components that may break down under heavy use. They are easy to maintain and have low running costs as a result. Additionally, they reduce the reliance on forklifts, which can be more costly to operate and require extensive training to maneuver and lift large loads.
The pallet jack’s hydraulic system has two key parts: the control lever and the load wheels. The control lever can be shifted into either the down position or the up position to drive the pallet jack forward and raise or lower its forks. When the lever is in the down position, pumping it upwards causes a piston to rise within the hydraulic system, raising the forks and load. When the handle is shifted into the up position, squeezing it downward causes the same action to reverse, lowering the forks and load back to the ground.
While these devices are relatively simple, it is important for employees to follow basic safety procedures when using them. Failure to do so can lead to crushed toes, tripping hazards, scraped knuckles and pulled backs.
Transporting
Most hand pallet jacks are equipped with load wheels that roll smoothly over warehouse floors and into loading docks. The load wheels can be made of polyurethane or rubber, depending on your specific application needs and warehouse environment. The most common wheel sizes are 7″ and 9″, but larger wheels can also be used for specialty applications.
To move a load with a pallet jack, the operator shifts the control lever to the “lift” position. This pumps a hydraulic piston inside the pump, causing the linkages beneath the forks and attached to the load wheels to articulate. This articulation causes the wheels and forks to rise, which allows the operator to transport the load over obstacles such as ramps or dock plates.
When the operator is ready to stop moving the load, they shift the control lever to the “lower” position. The lowering process reverses the articulation of the load wheels and forks, which walkie stacker allows them to descend back to the ground. Some pallet jacks are equipped with an integrated digital scale to weigh the load and display its weight.
When using a manual or powered pallet jack, it is important to plan your route carefully to ensure that you can maneuver the equipment safely and effectively. It is also important to inspect the equipment regularly webbing sling manufacturer for damage and safety hazards. If you have questions about a particular piece of material handling equipment, talk to your material handling rep or a supplier.
Maintenance
As simple as hand pallet jacks are to operate, they need some routine care and maintenance. These simple tasks help keep the equipment working like new and prevent problems from developing that could potentially lead to unsafe conditions.
Start with a thorough cleaning of the equipment to remove any dirt or debris that has built up over time. Use a brush or air compressor to clear away any particles that could be stuck in the wheels, axles or other components. A damp cloth can be used to wipe down the whole pallet jack, and should be done regularly to keep it clean.
Inspect the hydraulic system for leaks or damaged hoses. Make sure that the hydraulic fluid is at the proper level and address any issues according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Check the casters and wheels for any flat spots or damage, and replace any that are worn out. Keep in mind that these are designed to only be used on smooth surfaces, and using them on a slope can lead to dangerous circumstances.
Lubricate the critical points of the pallet jack every month. These include the wheels, casters, fittings and axles. The proper lubrication should be used, as something too thick may cause clogging. Make sure to drain the hydraulic oil before refilling it, and always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the correct type of hydraulic fluid.
Safety
Manual pallet jacks can be powerful and potentially dangerous tools if they are not used properly. Proper safety protocols, training, and maintenance can help companies avoid injuries and accidents and improve efficiency with these valuable assets.
Most hand pallet jacks have the same basic parts: a hydraulic pump, steer wheels, forks or prongs, and load wheels. The operator pumps the handle lever to raise the forks by causing a piston in the hydraulic pump to rise and a linkage between the forks and the load wheels to articulate. When the operator needs to lower the forks, they shift the control lever to a lower position. This actuates a purge valve that allows the hydraulic pump to release pressure and cause the forks to lower proportionally.
Some specialized versions of this equipment feature a scissor lift mechanism that provides a greater stroke than that supplied by the standard hydraulic piston. This can be especially useful for distributing loads with wide or irregular dimensions onto a pallet.
Prior to operating a pallet jack, employees should refer to the manufacturer’s operation manual and ensure that all controls are in working order. They should also inspect the route they plan to take to make sure the jack is free from tripping hazards and will clear any doorways. If they encounter any issues, they should notify a supervisor immediately.