What is the standard size for forklift forks?
2 Answers
Taking 3-3.5 ton forklifts as an example: the main sizes are 1.07 meters, 1.22 meters, 1.37 meters, 1.52 meters, 1.67 meters, 1.82 meters, 1.97 meters, etc. The same applies to 5-10 ton forklifts, generally increasing by 150mm per size. Below is relevant information: Forklift technical parameters: Rated load capacity: The rated load capacity of a forklift refers to the maximum weight of goods allowed to be lifted when the distance from the center of gravity of the goods to the front wall of the fork is not greater than the load center distance, expressed in T (tons). When the center of gravity of the goods on the fork exceeds the specified load center distance, the load capacity should be reduced accordingly due to the limitations of the forklift's longitudinal stability. Load center distance: The load center distance refers to the horizontal distance T from the center of gravity of standard goods placed on the fork to the front wall of the vertical section of the fork, expressed in mm (millimeters). For 1T to 4T forklifts, the specified load center distance is 500mm.
I've been operating forklifts for over a decade. The most common fork dimensions are generally between 1 to 1.5 meters in length, about 150mm in width, and 30 to 50mm in thickness for durability. Standards aren't rigid rules, but forks around 1.2 meters long suit standard pallets well - like the 80cm or 1.2-meter European pallets commonly used in warehouses. Slightly wider forks provide stable insertion to prevent cargo wobbling. Choosing wrong sizes can lead to operational mishaps; I recall once using overly short forks that caused cargo to slip, nearly causing an accident. Nowadays, most operators use standard sizes for safety and easier handling. Forks also require regular inspection for deformation - replace worn ones promptly, never cut corners. Forklift type affects selection too - counterbalance forklifts work better with longer forks, while narrow-aisle applications need shorter ones for maneuverability. Proper sizing boosts efficiency and reduces accidents.
