forks forklift trucks

The forklift forks, pallet forks or tynes are the distinctive parts of a forklift.

There are many different designs of loading forks depending on lifting capacity, length and mounting on the fork carriage.

Forklift fork mounting systems

Different forkboard mounting systems for loading forks have been developed. Nevertheless, the so-called FEM/ITA class has meanwhile become by far the most widely used system. Here, depending on the lifting capacity of the forklift truck, 5 sizes of fork carriage have been developed with corresponding fork connections. 
The illustrations above show how you can easily measure which system is used on a forklift truck. Subsequently, all lengths and diameters of forklift forks of that system can be fitted to the forklift truck.

Choosing the right forklift fork

Keep in mind that the specified load capacity of a forklift always applies at 500 mm distance from the mast. Every forklift should also have a load diagram on the mast. This diagram shows what weight at what distance from the mast and at what lifting height a forklift can still lift safely.
When replacing forklift forks, ensure that forks are chosen that meet these requirements.