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1. Working principle and structure of forklift steel rims
As the core component of the forklift travel system, the performance of forklift steel rims affects the load-bearing capacity, driving stability and operating safety of the vehicle. Forklift steel rims are key components that connect tires and axles, and they carry multiple important functions during the operation of the forklift. The force transmission system is the core mechanism of the steel rims, which effectively transmits and disperses various complex loads through a precisely designed structure. When the forklift carries goods, the steel rims need to transfer the forklift's own weight and load weight to the ground through the tires. This vertical static load can usually reach 3-10 tons, depending on the rated lifting weight of the forklift. At the same time, when accelerating or braking, the steel rims also need to transfer the driving torque and braking torque between the axle and the tire. These dynamic loads are often 1.5-2 times the static load. The lateral force generated during steering is also balanced by the steel rim structure to ensure directional stability.
The forklift steel rims are designed to evenly distribute stress and avoid local stress concentration by optimizing the structure. The rim part bears the radial load from the tire and transmits it to the hub through the spokes or wheel disc; the hub mounting surface transmits the torque to the axle. This force transmission path needs to maintain continuity and integrity. Any structural defects may lead to stress concentration, which in turn causes fatigue cracks. Modern forklift steel rims use finite element analysis technology for topological optimization to ensure uniform stress distribution under high load conditions while achieving lightweight.
Thermodynamic performance should not be ignored either. In a continuous operating environment, the heat generated by tire deformation and braking will be transmitted to the steel rims, causing the machine temperature to rise. The thermal expansion coefficient and thermal conductivity of the steel rim material directly affect its working stability. Experimental data show that the surface temperature of ordinary steel rims can reach 70-90°C under heavy load conditions, while the temperature of aluminum alloy steel rims is usually 15-20°C lower due to better heat dissipation. This temperature difference not only affects the strength of the material, but also changes the clearance of the mating parts, so thermal management has become an important consideration in the design of steel rims.
Ø Steel rim structure type and design evolution
Forklift steel rims are mainly divided into two major structural types: spoke plate type and integral type, each with its own applicable scenarios and performance characteristics. The spoke plate steel rim consists of three parts: rim, spoke and hub, and uses 5-7 radially arranged steel spokes to connect the rim and hub. This traditional structure is simple and reliable, with low manufacturing cost and convenient maintenance, but it is heavy and has average heat dissipation performance.
Integral steel rims represent the trend of modern design. They use the rim and wheel disc integrated molding process, and the materials are mostly high-strength steel or aluminum alloy. This structure eliminates the traditional spokes and connects the rim and hub through an integral wheel disc. It has many advantages: compact structure, 15-20% weight reduction; good heat dissipation performance, lower operating temperature; excellent dynamic balance performance, reduced vibration; long fatigue life, suitable for high-intensity operations. However, the integral steel rim has a high manufacturing cost, and usually needs to be replaced as a whole after damage, and the maintenance economy is poor.
The split design is a special form of forklift steel rims, which divides the rim into two parts for easy tire installation and replacement. This design is suitable for the application of solid tires or high-pressure tires, and solves the problem that the integral rim is difficult to install. The split steel rim fastens the two parts of the rim together with high-strength bolts, and the joint surface is precisely machined to ensure sealing.
Ø Key parameters and standard system
The size parameters of the forklift steel rim directly affect its matching and interchangeability. The main parameters include rim diameter, width, bolt hole distribution circle diameter (P.C.D), number and diameter of bolt holes, offset distance (ET), and center hole diameter.
Performance parameters are key indicators for evaluating the quality of steel rims. Carrying capacity is the most basic parameter. The static load of a single wheel of an ordinary forklift steel rim is 3-5 tons, and the reinforced type can reach 8-10 tons. The dynamic balance performance is expressed by the residual unbalance, and the high-quality steel rim should be controlled within 50g·cm (for φ16-inch steel rims). Fatigue life is usually measured in cycles, which should not be less than 10^6 times under the standard load spectrum. Dimensional accuracy is also important. The radial runout of the rim should be <0.5mm and the end runout should be <0.3mm. These parameters directly affect the ride smoothness and tire wear.
Ø Material properties and technological innovation of forklift steel rims
The material evolution of forklift steel rims reflects the technological progress of the manufacturing industry. Traditional carbon steel rims use materials such as Q235B and Q345B, which are low-cost and mature in technology, but are heavy and have average corrosion resistance. Modern high-strength alloy steel rims use new materials. By adding micro-alloy elements and controlled rolling and controlled cooling processes, the strength is increased by 20% while the weight is reduced by 15-20%. Compared with steel rims, the aluminum alloy version can reduce weight by 40%, significantly reduce the unsprung mass, and improve the suspension response speed and energy efficiency; it has high thermal conductivity and lower operating temperature; it has good casting performance and can realize integrated molding of complex structures. However, aluminum alloys have a lower elastic modulus, slightly inferior impact resistance, and higher cost, and are mostly used in occasions with demanding lightweight requirements. Stainless steel rims (304 or 316L) are also used in special environments (such as ports). They have excellent corrosion resistance, but the cost and processing difficulty are higher.
Composite materials are a revolutionary breakthrough in steel rim technology. Carbon fiber reinforced composite (CFRP) steel rims are lighter and stronger than aluminum alloys, but the cost limits their widespread application. Metal-based composite materials combine the toughness of metals and the hardness of ceramics, and their wear resistance is significantly improved.
Ø Comparison of manufacturing process and performance
Precise manufacturing process is the guarantee of steel rim performance. The production of good forklift steel rims requires multiple strict processes: steel plate cutting → hot pressing → rolling forming → CO₂ gas shielded welding → normalizing → machining → sandblasting and rust removal → electrostatic spraying → high temperature curing.
Heat treatment technology optimizes the organizational properties of steel rims. Normalizing can eliminate the internal stress generated by forming and welding, refine the grains, and improve the toughness of the material. The quenching + tempering process is used for high-strength steel rims to obtain tempered troostite structure, taking into account both strength and toughness. Aluminum alloy steel rims use T6 heat treatment (solid solution + artificial aging) to disperse the second phase particles and strengthen the matrix. The special thermomechanical control process (TMCP) controls the rolling temperature and cooling rate to obtain ideal comprehensive mechanical properties, and has been applied in the manufacture of high-performance steel rims. The quality inspection system ensures the safety and reliability of steel rims. In addition to conventional dimensional inspections, key inspections include: ultrasonic flaw detection to detect internal defects; dynamic balancing tests to evaluate rotational stability; fatigue tests to simulate actual working conditions; and impact tests to verify toughness.
Table: Comparison of the performance of main materials for forklift steel rims
|
Material Type |
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
Applicable scenarios |
|
Ordinary carbon steel |
Low cost, mature technology |
Heavy weight, poor corrosion resistance |
General working conditions, limited budget projects |
|
High Strength Steel |
High strength, good cost performance |
High welding requirements |
Heavy-duty forklift, port application |
|
Aluminum Alloy |
Lightweight, good heat dissipation |
High cost, poor impact resistance |
Lightweight electric forklift |
|
Stainless steel |
Strong corrosion resistance |
High cost, difficult processing |
Corrosive environment |
2. Maintenance and troubleshooting of forklift steel rims
Ø Daily inspection and preventive maintenance
Direct observation is one of the operations to discover potential problems with steel rims. Operators should conduct a systematic inspection of steel rims before daily operations, including checking whether the steel rims have cracks, deformation or abnormal wear. Pay special attention to the contact area between the rim edge and the tire. Any irregular wear may be a sign of steel rim deformation. The bolt connection state is also critical. Loose fastening bolts will cause uneven load distribution and accelerate steel rim fatigue. When checking, a torque wrench should be used to verify whether the bolt preload is within the standard range. The valve state should not be ignored. A damaged valve will cause slow tire pressure leakage and affect driving safety.
Cleaning and maintenance specifications are essential to extend the life of steel rims. Regularly removing dirt, oil and chemicals accumulated on the surface of the steel rims can prevent corrosive media from eroding the steel rims. Neutral detergents and soft brushes should be used when cleaning to avoid hard objects scratching the surface coating. For aluminum alloy steel rims, special cleaners can be used regularly to remove the oxide layer and restore the metallic luster. After cleaning, check whether the surface coating of the steel rim is intact. If it peels off, repaint it in time. In corrosive environments such as ports, it is recommended to perform comprehensive cleaning and anti-corrosion treatment on the steel rims once a month to prevent salt accumulation and electrochemical corrosion.
Tire matching inspection is often overlooked but very important. The mismatch between the steel rim and the tire can lead to a series of problems, such as abnormal tire pressure loss and abnormal tire wear. The inspection content includes: confirming that the tire specifications are consistent with the steel rim specifications; checking whether the tire and the rim fit tightly and there is no air leakage; verifying whether the tire installation direction is correct. After each tire replacement, the tire pressure should be rechecked at least twice to ensure that the tire pressure is stable at the recommended value. In addition, using the lubricant that matches the tire and the steel rim for installation can reduce damage during disassembly and assembly, while ensuring air tightness.
Ø Regular maintenance and professional maintenance
Bearing system maintenance is the guarantee for the long-term and reliable operation of the steel rims. Forklift steel rims usually use tapered roller bearings or deep groove ball bearings, which require regular lubrication and clearance adjustment. During maintenance, the old grease and contaminants should be removed first, and then fresh grease should be injected. Checking the bearing clearance is also critical. Excessive clearance will cause the steel rim to swing, while too little clearance will increase friction and heat. For maintenance-free bearings, although regular lubrication is not required, it is still necessary to check whether the seals are intact to prevent water and dust from invading.
Dynamic balancing can improve driving quality. When the steel rim produces obvious vibration during driving, it often indicates that the dynamic balance has been lost. Professional repair stations use dynamic balancing machines for detection and correction, and offset the imbalance by adding counterweights at specific positions on the rim. After correction, a road test should be carried out to ensure that the vibration is eliminated. Uneven tire wear can also cause imbalance, so regular tire rotation is also an effective measure to maintain balance.
Professional detection methods can detect hidden dangers that are difficult to detect with the naked eye. Ultrasonic flaw detection can detect defects such as cracks and pores inside the steel rim, which is particularly suitable for safety inspection of steel rims after high-load use. Magnetic particle flaw detection can detect tiny cracks on the surface and near the surface. Dimensional accuracy detection is also important. Use a micrometer to measure the radial and end runout of the rim to ensure that it is within the allowable range. For aluminum alloy steel rims, it is also necessary to regularly check the flatness of the hub mounting surface to prevent uneven bolt preload caused by deformation. These professional tests are recommended to be performed every 2,000 working hours or once a year by qualified maintenance organizations.
Ø Common fault diagnosis and treatment
Identification and treatment of steel rim deformation requires professional judgment. Symptoms of deformation include vehicle deviation, steering wheel shaking, abnormal tire wear, etc. Minor deformation can be repaired by special hydraulic correction equipment, but it should be noted that dynamic balancing needs to be performed again after correction. Severe deformation (such as wrinkle deformation caused by impact) requires replacement of the steel rim because the metal material has been irreversibly damaged. Non-destructive testing should be performed after deformation correction to ensure that no cracks are generated. Measures to prevent steel rim deformation include: avoiding overloading, driving smoothly, and avoiding large potholes on the road. For forklifts used in harsh environments such as ports and construction sites, it is recommended to use reinforced steel rims to improve deformation resistance.
Bearing damage should be handled promptly and professionally. Signs of damage include abnormal noise during driving (buzzing or clicking), abnormal increase in wheel hub temperature, and increased driving resistance. Once these symptoms are found, stop using the bearing immediately and disassemble and inspect the bearing. Minor wear can be repaired by cleaning and relubrication, but in most cases, the entire set of bearings needs to be replaced. When installing new bearings, pay attention to: use special tools to press and avoid direct knocking; ensure that the bearing seat is clean and free of burrs; use the specified type of grease and control the amount; tighten the shaft head nut according to the standard torque. After replacing the bearing, a road test should be carried out for at least 30 minutes to monitor whether the bearing temperature is normal.
The treatment of surface corrosion requires different measures according to the degree. Minor surface rust can be removed with a wire brush and then repainted; moderate corrosion requires sandblasting and then anti-corrosion painting; severe corrosion (such as rust on the edge of the rim causing reduced air tightness) requires replacement of the steel ring. For oxidation corrosion of aluminum alloy steel rings, special cleaners can be used to remove the oxide layer, and then spray transparent protective paint. Measures to prevent corrosion include: regular cleaning; avoid scratching the surface coating; avoid humid environments when storing; use stainless steel or special coated steel rings in corrosive environments. It is recommended that forklifts used in ports undergo special anti-corrosion inspections and treatments regularly to prevent rusting of the steel rings from affecting work efficiency.
3. Functions and effects of forklift steel rims
Ø Role in the vehicle system
Safety bearing function is the most basic and important function of forklift steel rims. As a key component connecting the tire and the axle, the steel rim directly bears the sum of the forklift's own weight and the weight of the cargo. Forklifts need to have the ability to load, unload, stack and transport palletized cargo over short distances, and these functions all rely on the stable bearing of the steel rims. The design bearing capacity of a good steel rim usually leaves enough safety margin. The static load of a single wheel of a standard steel rim can reach 3-5 tons, and the reinforced type can even reach 8-10 tons. Under dynamic conditions (such as emergency braking or road bumps), the steel rim must also withstand 1.5-2 times the impact load without plastic deformation or structural failure. This reliable bearing performance ensures the safety of the forklift under various operating conditions and prevents serious accidents such as tire shedding or loss of control due to deformation of the steel rim.
Driving stability is another core function of the steel rim. The technical parameters of the forklift, such as the minimum turning radius, wheelbase, and track width, are closely related to the performance of the steel rim. The precise positioning and solid structure of the steel rims ensure the stability of the wheel alignment parameters, allowing the forklift to travel accurately according to the driver's operating intention. When the forklift is operating at the rated lifting weight, the mast inclination angle is usually 3°~6° forward and 10°~12° backward. This posture change will change the center of gravity of the vehicle, and high-quality steel rims can effectively resist the additional lateral force generated thereby and maintain a stable driving trajectory. Especially when the forklift makes a right-angle turn or passes through a narrow passage, the anti-deformation ability of the steel rim directly affects key performance parameters such as "minimum width of right-angle passage" and "minimum width of stacking passage", which in turn determines the passability and operating efficiency of the forklift in a dense storage environment.
In terms of power transmission efficiency, the steel rim plays an irreplaceable role. The driving speed, climbing grade, etc. in the technical parameters of the forklift are related to the performance of the steel rim. The steel rim transmits the torque of the drive motor to the contact surface between the tire and the ground, generating traction to push the forklift forward. In this process, the structural stiffness and installation accuracy of the steel rim determine the efficiency loss of power transmission. A steel rim with poor dynamic balance or uneven mounting surface will cause energy to dissipate in the form of vibration and heat, increase the resistance of the transmission system, and thus affect the acceleration performance and climbing ability of the forklift. Actual measured data shows that high-quality steel rims can reduce rolling resistance by more than 7% compared with ordinary products, which is particularly important for the endurance of electric forklifts.
Ø Impact on the overall performance of forklifts
The extension of tire life is a direct benefit brought by steel rims. The matching quality of steel rims and tires directly affects the wear pattern and speed of tires. High-precision steel rims with rim radial runout controlled within 0.5mm and end face runout less than 0.3mm can ensure uniform distribution of tire ground pressure and avoid abnormal wear. After using high-quality steel rims, the life of forklift tires is extended from 8 months to 12 months, an increase of 50%. The good heat dissipation performance of steel rims can also reduce the operating temperature of tires and slow down the aging of rubber. In addition, the smooth transition design of the steel rim edge avoids damage during tire disassembly and assembly, further extending the service life of tires.
Energy efficiency improvement is increasingly valued in modern forklift design. The lightweight steel rim directly reduces the unsprung mass of the forklift, which can reduce the energy consumption of the suspension system when it moves according to the principle of vehicle dynamics. Aluminum alloy steel rims are 40% lighter than traditional steel rims, which can increase the endurance of electric forklifts by 5-8%. In addition, the improved dynamic balance performance of the steel rims reduces driving vibration and reduces the additional resistance of the transmission system. Data from the aforementioned logistics center showed that after using high-quality steel rims, the forklift's power consumption was reduced from the baseline value to 93%, saving 7% of energy costs. In large logistics centers or ports, this energy-saving effect will accumulate and produce obvious economic benefits.
Reduced maintenance costs are the long-term value of high-quality steel rims. On the one hand, the durability of the steel rims themselves reduces the frequency of replacement; on the other hand, high-quality steel rims protect other components that cooperate with them, such as wheel hub bearings, suspension components, etc., and reduce the failure rate of these components. Actual measured data shows that after using high-quality steel rims, the maintenance frequency of forklift-related systems has dropped from 2 times a year to 0.5 times, a decrease of 75%. In addition, the standardized design of the steel rims facilitates maintenance and replacement, and the modular structure allows for the replacement of damaged parts individually when there is local damage, further reducing maintenance costs.
Ø Performance in special environments
Port terminal applications place special demands on steel rims. High salt spray environments accelerate metal corrosion, and frequent starts and stops and heavy-load operations result in large mechanical loads. Stainless steel rims show obvious advantages in this environment. Ordinary steel rims show obvious rust in 3 months, while stainless steel rims have no visible corrosion after 2 years of use. The steel rims of port container forklifts also require larger diameters and widths to provide better stability and buoyancy to prevent sinking into soft ground. The special pattern design is also conducive to the discharge of mud and seawater, keeping the tires and steel rims clean.
In the cold chain logistics environment, steel rims face the dual challenges of low-temperature embrittlement and temperature difference condensation. Low-temperature steel rims use special alloy materials and heat treatment processes to ensure that they remain sufficiently tough at -40°C. Surface treatment also needs to consider anti-icing and anti-sticking properties to avoid ice accumulation during braking that affects balance. At the same time, the temperature difference caused by frequent entry and exit of cold storage will cause condensation on the surface of ordinary steel rings, accelerating corrosion, while steel rings with anti-rust coating or fully sealed design are more suitable for this environment.
Clean room and food-grade applications require that steel rings do not produce pollution. Such places usually use stainless steel or special coated steel rings to avoid rust or coating peeling and polluting the environment. The design minimizes concave and convex structures to facilitate thorough cleaning and disinfection. The operating noise also needs to be controlled at a low level, usually requiring no more than 75dB when driving without load to reduce the sound wave disturbance to the clean room environment.
4. Precautions and selection of forklift steel rings
Ø Operational specifications and taboos
Loading and driving specifications will affect the life of the steel rims. When operating a forklift, the rated lifting weight limit should be strictly observed. Overloading will cause plastic deformation of the steel rims or even structural failure. The goods should be evenly distributed to avoid overloading of one side of the steel rim due to partial loading. During driving, please note: the fork should be 200-300mm from the ground, and it is not allowed to raise or lower the goods during driving; no sudden braking or high-speed turning; when going downhill, the vehicle should be driven in reverse and the speed should be controlled, and it is strictly forbidden to slide in neutral. These measures can reduce the abnormal impact load on the steel rims. When passing through uneven roads or tracks, the vehicle should slow down to avoid severe impact on the steel rims.
Environmental adaptability measures vary depending on the working conditions. In corrosive environments (such as ports and chemical plants), stainless steel or special coated steel rims should be selected, and the cleaning and inspection cycles should be shortened. In high-temperature environments (such as steel mills), tire pressure changes need to be monitored to avoid tire blowouts due to increased air pressure. In low temperature environment, the risk of cold brittleness increases, and impact loads should be avoided; at the same time, metal shrinkage may change the fit clearance, and the bolt preload needs to be checked. In dusty environments, dust accumulated inside the steel rim should be removed regularly to prevent affecting dynamic balance. For forklifts stored outdoors, it is recommended to use a protective cover to cover the steel rim to reduce the impact of sun and rain.
Emergency handling requires special attention. When the steel rim is found to have visible cracks, severe deformation, or continuous loosening of bolts, it should be stopped and repaired immediately. If you feel abnormal shaking of the steering wheel or deviation of the vehicle during driving, you should slow down and stop to check the status of the steel rim and tire. Do not brake urgently when the tire bursts, and stop slowly to avoid the steel rim directly hitting the ground and causing secondary damage. For pneumatic tires, insufficient tire pressure will cause the rim to come into direct contact with the ground, and the spare tire should be immediately inflated or replaced. Establishing an emergency plan, including spare steel rim reserves, quick replacement procedures, and professional maintenance channels, can reduce unexpected downtime losses.
Ø Selection Guide for Forklift Steel Rims
The parameter matching principle is the basis for selection. The rim specifications must be fully matched to the tire specifications, including rim diameter, width and profile shape. The installation interface parameters are also critical: the bolt hole distribution circle diameter, number of bolt holes and hole diameter must match the axle; the center hole diameter should be precisely matched with the hub boss; the offset (ET) affects the wheelbase and steering geometry and must meet the original manufacturer's requirements. There should be an appropriate margin for the load-bearing capacity. Generally, a rim with a rated load 20-30% higher than the maximum axle load of the forklift is selected. The speed rating also needs to be considered. The high-speed driving conditions of electric forklifts require rims with high speed capabilities.
The material selection strategy needs to weigh multiple factors. Ordinary carbon steel rims are low in cost and suitable for general indoor environments; high-strength steel is suitable for heavy loads and large impact loads; aluminum alloy rims are suitable for lightweight electric forklifts; stainless steel is suitable for highly corrosive environments. For actual selection, please refer to: stainless steel is preferred in ports and chemical environments; aluminum alloy is preferred for electric forklifts that pursue energy saving and maneuverability; ordinary carbon steel can be selected for limited budgets and good working conditions; high-strength steel is selected for heavy-load forklifts and off-road conditions.
Cost-effectiveness evaluation should consider the cost of the entire life cycle. The initial purchase cost is only part of the total cost. It is also necessary to consider: service life (high-quality steel rims can reach 5-8 years); maintenance costs (such as aluminum alloy steel rims are basically maintenance-free); energy-saving benefits (lightweight steel rims save energy); protection of related components (such as high-quality steel rims extend the life of tires and bearings). It is recommended to use a 3-5 year total cost of ownership (TCO) for evaluation rather than just comparing purchase prices. In special environments, although the initial investment is high, choosing high-performance steel rims may be more economical in the long run. In-depth communication with suppliers about operating conditions and budgets can provide more accurate selection recommendations.
Ø Special application solutions
The steel rims of heavy-duty forklifts in ports require special designs. Such applications usually choose larger-sized steel rims (such as diameter ≥ 20 inches) equipped with solid tires or high-pressure pneumatic tires. High-strength stainless steel is used as the material, and reinforced spokes or integral designs are used in the structure to improve deformation resistance. In terms of protection, thick coatings or special anti-corrosion treatments are required to resist salt spray erosion. The installation interface should be easy to replace frequently, such as quick disassembly design.
The steel rims of cold chain logistics forklifts need to cope with special temperature differences. It is recommended to use materials with good low-temperature toughness and maintain good impact toughness at -40℃. The surface treatment should be anti-icing and anti-sticking to avoid brake failure. The structure should adopt an integral design to reduce the water accumulation area and prevent freezing and cracking. Bolts and other fasteners need special anti-loosening treatment to avoid cold shrinkage and reduce the preload. Note during use: Check the bolt torque before and after entering and leaving the cold storage; avoid sudden acceleration and braking; regularly remove frost on the steel rims.
There are special requirements for the steel rims of clean room forklifts. The material can be stainless steel or aluminum alloy to avoid particle pollution. The design should be smooth and without dead corners to facilitate cleaning and disinfection. The operating noise should be controlled below 75dB. It is recommended to use a non-marking formula for tires to avoid leaving marks. Clean room special detergents must be used for maintenance, and the tools must also meet the cleanliness standards. This type of steel rim is expensive, but it is essential for clean environments in industries such as semiconductors and pharmaceuticals.
The steel rims of explosion-proof forklifts must be made of non-sparking materials (such as specific aluminum alloys); have good grounding design to prevent static electricity accumulation; and have a closed structure to avoid the accumulation of combustible dust. All electrical components must meet explosion-proof standards. Maintenance work must be carried out in a safe area and explosion-proof tools must be used. These special steel rims must pass relevant certification to ensure safety in hazardous environments.
5. Development trend of forklift steel rims
Lightweight technology is the mainstream trend of forklift steel rims. Through material innovation (such as high-strength steel, aluminum alloy, composite materials) and structural optimization (topological optimization, hollow design), modern forklift steel rims are 15-40% lighter than traditional products. Specific paths include: using hot forming technology to manufacture high-strength thin-walled steel rims, with the wall thickness reduced from 6mm to 4mm without affecting strength; aluminum alloy steel rims reduce the number of parts through integrated casting; composite steel rims use the excellent specific strength of carbon fiber to achieve greater weight reduction. The benefits of lightweighting include: reducing energy consumption; reducing unsprung mass and improving handling; reducing labor intensity and facilitating replacement and maintenance.
Green manufacturing technology responds to global sustainable development needs. In terms of materials, bio-based coatings are developed to replace traditional petroleum-based coatings; recycled aluminum is used to manufacture steel rims to reduce mineral mining; and degradable composite materials are explored. In terms of manufacturing process, laser cleaning is used instead of chemical pretreatment to eliminate wastewater pollution; the material utilization rate of powder spraying technology reaches more than 95%, which exceeds the 60% of traditional painting; 3D printing achieves near-net shaping and reduces material waste. In terms of energy, induction heating saves 30% energy compared to gas heating; the waste heat recovery system utilizes the waste heat from the annealing furnace; and photovoltaic power generation provides clean energy for the production line.
The innovative application of new energy forklifts will promote the technological innovation of steel rims. As the market share of electric forklifts grows, new requirements are put forward for steel rims: lightweight (to compensate for battery weight); low rolling resistance (to extend battery life); regenerative braking compatibility. Steel rims designed for electric forklifts are usually made of aluminum alloy, equipped with a low-friction sealing system, and optimized heat dissipation structure to adapt to high-current working mode. The emergence of hydrogen fuel forklifts will also bring new challenges, such as material selection to prevent hydrogen embrittlement and explosion-proof design. In the future, as new energy forklift technology matures, steel rims will become more professional, and exclusive optimized versions will be developed for different power forms (pure electric, hybrid, hydrogen energy).
