Definition of Forklift Classes
Forklifts are utilized in a variety of everyday tasks in both retail and warehouse environments, like raising heavy merchandise, delivering loads of goods and stocking shelves. According to the Industrial Truck Association there are eight classes of forklift. The machines are classified based on type of engine or motor, kind of tires, and the way the equipment is steered. Forklifts are also called lift trucks.
Class I forklifts - Electric Motor Forklifts
These are standard electric motor lift trucks. Kinds of Class I forklift include the sit-down, three-wheeled varieties which are often used to move pallets of mulch at home goods stores.
Class II forklifts - Narrow Aisle Electric Motor Lift Trucks
Narrow aisle trucks do not require much space for operation. Class II trucks consist of side-loading models and forklifts with swinging masts.
Class III forklifts - Electric Motor Hand Trucks
Class IV forklifts - Internal Combustion Engine Forklifts
IC engine forklifts are quite like regular automobile engines. These equipment do come with solid tires or cushion tires. usually the back of the truck has a counterweight to make the machinery a lot more stable.
Both Class IV and Class V are normally counterbalance forklifts with IC engines. The difference is in the tires which are utilized. Class V trucks come with radial or pneumatic tires.
Tractors
Class VI forklifts - Towing Tractor Lift Trucks
Class VI lift trucks are sit down trailers which tow heavy loads, loads up to 450 kilograms. These trucks can are available with either an an IC engine or an electric motor.
Class VII lift trucks - Rough Terrain Vehicles
This class of lift truck has internal combustion engines and pneumatic tires. They are usually employed in agriculture, construction and logging. These trucks are recommended for worksites where the ground is rough and uneven and riddled with debris.
Class VIII forklifts - Manual Lift Trucks
These trucks are hand pallet lift trucks operated by an individual who either pulls or pushes the vehicle. The forks are usually operated hydraulically, and have a low maximum lift height. This class includes personnel and burden carriers.