What are two different kinds of Forklift Forks?

Forks are of two types: the hook type and the pin type.

The hook type fork is so called the fork bends over and locks into the bars of the fork carriage. Upper and lower hooks slide into the end of the carriage bars to install the fork. Alternatively, a special fork loading notch is provided in the center of the lower carriage mounting bar to hook the fork. A hook type fork is usually deployed in trucks with load lifting capacity of up to 14,000 pounds.

The pin, or shaft-mounted type of fork attach to the fork lift carriage with the help of a fork pin or shaft. There is an eye on the top of the fork which the pin slides through. This pin fastens the fork to the fork carriage. The pin type of fork is usually deployed on trucks expected to carry very large loading capacity.

Given the number of applications that the forklift is deployed for, it is but natural that fork sizes have not only been standardized, but also they have been given specific ratings based on their thickness and width. This rating is usually stamped on the shank of the fork. When replacing a fork, the operator and the management has to ensure that the new fork has the same load rating.

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