Definition of Forklift Classes
The forklift is utilized in numerous retail and warehouse settings for a variety of daily task, like carrying bulky merchandise, delivering loads of goods and stocking shelves. According to the Industrial Truck Association there are eight classes of forklift. The equipment are classified based on type of tire, kind of engine or motor, and the way the machinery is steered. Forklifts are also called lift trucks.
Class I forklifts - Electric Motor Forklifts
These are standard electric motor lift trucks. Types of Class I forklift consist of the sit-down, three-wheeled varieties which are commonly 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 a lot of space for operation. Class II trucks comprise 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 similar to typical car engines. These machines do come with solid tires or cushion tires. Normally the back of the truck has a counterweight in order to make the vehicle 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 used. Class V trucks utilize pneumatic or radial tires.
Tractors
Class VI forklifts - Towing Tractor Lift Trucks
These trucks are sit-down tractors which could raise bulky loads and pull loads weighing over 450 kilograms. These trucks can are available with either an electric motor or an internal combustion engine.
Class VII lift trucks - Rough Terrain Vehicles
This class of lift truck has pneumatic tires and internal combustion engines. They are normally used in construction, logging and agriculture. These type of trucks are recommended for worksites where the ground is uneven and rough 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 normally operated hydraulically, and have a low maximum lift height. This class includes burden and personnel carriers.