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Liftgates also known as tail lifts, lifting tailgates, or lift platforms, are battery-powered hydraulic lifting and loading devices installed at the rear of trucks, trailers and other vehicles. Equipped with a comprehensive hydraulic system and support platform, a tailgate can lift cargo weighing 500 kg to 3 tons. Undoubtedly, they significantly improve loading and unloading efficiency and convenience, making them a highly practical on-board loading and unloading tool and an essential piece of equipment for modern logistics and transportation.
Benefits of a Liftgates
- Speed: Simply raise and lower the liftgate with a single button to easily load and unload cargo.
- Safety: Using a liftgate allows for easy, manual loading and unloading, enhancing operator safety and reducing damage, especially for flammable, explosive, and fragile items.
- Efficiency: Using a liftgate significantly improves loading and unloading efficiency. No additional equipment is required, and no space or personnel restrictions are imposed. Loading and unloading can be completed by one person.
Liftgates Types
Cantilever Tail Lifts
Cantilever tail lifts are the most common type of tail lift on the market and are particularly suitable for transporting heavy or bulky cargo. They are articulated to the rear of the vehicle via two or more cantilever arms. The platform can be raised and lowered, as well as tilted forward and backward, making it easy to load and unload cargo at varying heights and slopes. Boom lifts save space because the boom typically remains out of the way when not in use.
Column Tail Lifts
This lift utilizes vertical motion to move cargo from the vehicle bed to the ground. Unlike traditional cantilever lifts, the platform rises and descends vertically, making it suitable for use in confined areas. The platform stows vertically, forming a part of the tailgate.
Retractable Tail Lifts
These tail lift platforms typically consist of two or more sections that fold upward or downward for easy storage. Folding the tail lift does not affect the rear door’s opening and does not significantly increase the vehicle’s length. When not in use, it fits snugly against the rear of the vehicle or underneath it, minimizing the space required.
The Structure and Working Principle of the Liftgate
The power unit for a vehicle’s liftgate uses a motor to drive an oil pump, which delivers hydraulic oil to the system. A valve block controls the flow direction and volume of the hydraulic oil, thereby raising and lowering the tailgate. The control system receives operating signals and controls the operating status of the motor and valve block to ensure precise control of the liftgate.
- The motor: Serves as the power source, converting electrical energy into mechanical energy to drive the oil pump.
- The oil pump: Draws hydraulic oil from the tank and delivers it to the system under high pressure.
- The oil tank: Stores the hydraulic oil and dissipates heat and precipitates impurities.
- The valve block: Controls the flow direction and volume of the hydraulic oil, enabling various movements of the tailgate.
- Pipes: Connect the various components and deliver the hydraulic oil.
- The control system: Receives operating signals and controls the operating status of the motor and valve block to ensure precise control of the tailgate.
Tailgate Platform Material
Common liftgate platforms are primarily made of steel or aluminum, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Users can flexibly select the appropriate material based on the specific usage environment, load requirements, and cost considerations.
| Material Type | Advantages | Disadvantages | Common Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steel | – High strength – Large load capacity – Relatively low cost – Strong impact resistance | – Heavy weight – Prone to rust – Requires regular anti-corrosion treatment | Heavy-duty trucks, construction vehicles, logistics transport |
| Aluminum Alloy | – Lightweight, much lighter than steel – Corrosion-resistant and aesthetic – Reduces overall vehicle weight, saves fuel – Can be anodized for better durability | – Higher cost – Lower strength compared to steel | City delivery trucks, light to medium-duty trucks, refrigerated trucks |