What is a Data Plate?
A Data Plate, also commonly referred to as a nameplate or a capacity plate, is a crucial component affixed to the forklift by the original equipment manufacturer. This plate serves as a comprehensive guide providing essential specifications about the forklift’s operational capabilities.
The information on the data plate includes, but is not limited to, the forklift’s weight, fuel type, load capacity, and lift heights. The weight of the forklift refers to its own mass without any additional load. The fuel type specifies what kind of energy source the forklift uses, such as diesel, propane, or electricity.
The load capacity indicates the maximum weight that the forklift can safely handle and transport, while the lift height presents the maximum elevation to which the forklift can raise a load. Some plates may also include additional details like the load centre, which is the distance from the front face of the forks to the load’s centre of gravity.
This information is vital for ensuring safe and effective operation of the forklift. It assists operators in understanding the limitations and capabilities of the equipment, helping to prevent accidents caused by overloading or improper use. Therefore, it is necessary to keep the data plate legible and intact.