There are 7 various classifications of lift trucks as determined by the Industrial Truck Association or ITA. These categories are broken down by the kind of work environment; rough or smooth surfaces, outdoors, indoors and narrow aisle; by the type of engine; whether the operator is standing or sitting down; and finally the characteristics of the equipment, regarding the maximum grade and tire type. Some of the classes are further sub-divided by operating characteristics. Here are the following classifications of forklifts:
Category 1 Forklifts: are considered to be electric motor trucks with pneumatic or air filled tires or cushion tires. The Class 1 forklifts also consist of 4 lift codes, or subcategories that are:
Lift Code 1: Stand-up, counterbalanced rider model.
Lift Code 4: Sit down, 3-Wheel electric.
Lift Code 5: Cushion Tire sit down, counterbalanced rider
Lift Code 6: Includes pneumatic tire models, sit-down rider, and counterbalanced rider.
Class 2 Forklifts: Class 2 lift trucks consist of narrow aisle electric trucks with solid tires.
Class 3 Forklifts: The class 3 forklift would comprise all hand/rider trucks fuel and electric based with solid tires.
Category 4 Forklifts: Class 4 forklifts are the IC or internal combustion models. These are sit down rider forklifts with cushion tires. Normally, they are great for applications on hard surfaces and indoor use.
Class 5 Forklifts: IC sit down rider units outfitted with pneumatic tires make up Class 5 forklifts. Typically, these units are great for working on rough surfaces outside or on areas with significant inclines.
Class 6 Forklifts: Class 6 forklifts will consist of internal combustion powered or electric models. These ride-on units could tow at least 1000 pounds. This specific category is engineered and designed to tow loads as opposed to lift it.
Category 7 Forklifts: Class 7 only included rough terrain models with pneumatic tires. The Class 7 forklifts are powered by diesel engines and are almost exclusively utilized outside.
These categories were designed to keep the large field of lift trucks separated and organized. In order to get their work done, different working atmospheres rely on various classes. Forklifts are quite specific in their lifting and loading capacities. Their different engine types and tire types are made for particular applications. In order to pick the right forklift to meet all your needs and to complete your tasks, do some research to determine exactly what you will require from your specific unit. By talking to a few trustworthy dealers and making time to explore all your choices, you can choose the right machine.
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