Standard or Triplex?

The forklift mast system is a vertical steel structure that allows the forklift to lift, lower and balance the load while carrying it. The mast (elevator) moves thanks to hydraulic cylinders and a chain mechanism and is one of the most important components of the forklift. The Basic Function of the mast is to move pallets or loads up and down with the help of the hydraulic system.

What Parts Does a Forklift Elevator Consist Of?

✅ Mast : It is the main carrier steel part of the elevator.
✅ Hydraulic Cylinders: It is the power mechanism that lifts and lowers the load.
✅ Chains and Pulley System: It transmits hydraulic power to the uprights and forks.
✅ Carriage: It is the moving part on which the forklift forks are mounted.
✅ Forks: It is the component that carries the loads directly.
✅ Side Shift and Tilt Mechanism: Allows the forklift to shift the load sideways or tilt it forward and backward.

What are the Forklift Mast Types?

1️⃣ Simplex (Two-Stage-Standard) – Basic and low-lift mast.

2️⃣ Duplex (Two-Stage-Free Lift) – Ideal for medium-height lifting.

3️⃣ Triplex (Three-Stage-Free Lift) – Commonly used model for high-rack systems.

4️⃣ Quadruplex (Four-Stage-Free Lift) – Mast with the highest lifting capacity.

*** “Free Lift” in forklifts is a term that expresses how high the forks can be lifted without increasing the height of the forklift’s main mast. Since it is possible to take the load from inside the container, it is also called the container type.

1. Standard (Simplex) Mast

• There is no free lift, that is, the mast also rises while lifting the load.
• The lifting height is usually low.
• It offers a clearer view since there is no middle boom.
• It is not preferred anymore.

2. Two-Stage (Duplex) Mast

• It has two stages; there is an outer and an inner upright set.
• There is free lift, it can work in containers etc.
• It is suitable for areas with low ceiling height.
• Triplex is usually preferred instead of Duplex since the middle boom already restricts the view.

3. Three-Stage (Triplex) Mast

• It has three stages and is the most commonly used mast type.
• It is preferred in high-bay warehouses.
• It provides high lift in a more compact size.
• There is free lift, it can work in containers etc.

4. Four-Stage (Quadruplex) Mast

• It has four stages and has the highest lifting capacity.
• It is used in areas requiring very high storage.
• There is free lift, it can work in containers etc.