The Behind-the-Scenes "Commander" of Forklift Power Transmission - Forklift Contactor

Behind the highly efficient logistics tool that is the forklift, there are numerous crucial small components, and the forklift contactor is one of them. Today, let's take an in-depth look at this key accessory that controls the "on" and "off" of the forklift's power. 

The core structure of the contactor includes an electromagnetic system, a contact system, and an arc extinguishing device. When we press the start button on the forklift console, a weak electric current will first flow into the electromagnetic coil. In an instant, the electromagnetic coil, as if enchanted, generates a powerful magnetic field. This magnetic field overcomes the reaction force of the spring, attracting the armature so that the stationary and moving contacts fit tightly together, thus opening the main circuit. Subsequently, the powerful working current rushes towards the corresponding motor, and the wheels of the forklift start to turn and the forks slowly rise. When the operation stops, the electromagnetic coil loses power, the magnetic field disappears, the spring resets, the contacts separate, and the circuit is broken, bringing everything to an abrupt halt. The whole process is precise, rapid, and orderly.

In the field of forklifts, contactors are not one-size-fits-all. According to the type of control current, they can be classified into AC contactors and DC contactors. AC contactors are often used in forklifts powered by internal combustion engines and equipped with AC motors. Thanks to their adaptability to alternating current, they can stably regulate the current magnitude, ensuring the smooth operation of the motors. On the other hand, DC contactors are the "darling" of electric forklifts. Electric forklifts rely on batteries to supply direct current, and in this scenario, DC contactors can minimize power loss to the greatest extent, improve the efficiency of power utilization, and boost the forklift's battery life.