The ITA or Industrial Truck Association has determined 7 various categories of forklifts. These classes are broken down by the type of work setting; smooth or rough surfaces, outdoors, indoors and narrow aisle; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; by the type of engine; and finally the equipment characteristics, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Several of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classifications of lift trucks:
Category 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with air filled or pneumatic tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also comprise 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Counterbalanced, stand up rider units.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Counterbalanced rider, cushion tire sit down tires.
Lift Code 6: This grouping included pneumatic tire units, counterbalanced rider, and sit-down rider models.
Category 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks narrow aisle trucks with electric motors and solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 lift truck will consist of all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Class 4 Forklifts: The IC or internal combustion units make up Class 4 forklifts. These are sit down rider units with cushion tires. Normally, they are great for applications on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Class 5 Forklifts: Class 5 is IC Engine sit down rider forklifts outfitted with pneumatic tires. Usually, these units are ideal for working areas with significant inclines or on rough surfaces outdoors.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 lift trucks will consist of IC powered or electric models. These ride-on models have the capability to tow at least 1000 lbs. This class is engineered and designed to tow cargo rather than lift it.
Class 7 Forklifts: Class 7 just included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Category 7 forklifts are almost exclusively utilized outside and powered by diesel engines.
The various classes of lift trucks help to keep them organized and separated. Different kinds of working atmospheres rely on various classes in order to get their work completed. Forklifts are rather particular in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different types of tires and engines are made for specific applications. In order to pick the best forklift to complete your tasks and to suit all your requirements, do some research to determine precisely what you will require from your particular model. By talking to several trustworthy dealers and making time to explore all your choices, you will be able to pick the right machinery.