TS EN ISO 6165

TS EN ISO 6165 is a terminology standard used to identify the basic types of earth-moving machinery and distinguish those classes with common terms and definitions. Within the wider family of construction and earth-moving machines, it provides a shared vocabulary for the main functions, from excavation and loading to transport and related site operations.

The core operating functions behind the machine classes

The technical field covered here is the set of basic machine types designed to work with soil and other materials. In general terms, the standard covers machinery intended for excavating, loading, transporting, spreading, compacting, and trenching. These machines are commonly used on roads, dams, and building sites, where material must be moved, shaped, or prepared. From an engineering perspective, each function implies a different machine layout, working attachment, and mobility concept, which is why clear classification matters.

Why the terminology matters in practice

This standard focuses on the terminology used to describe a machine’s design intent and basic mode of operation. That makes it easier for manufacturers, specifiers, technical writers, and trainers to use the same terms consistently across catalogues, documentation, and procurement language. In terminology standards, the aim is not to set performance limits, but to clarify what each class means and where the boundaries lie between groups such as excavators, loaders, dozers, and trenching machines.

This listing corresponds to a withdrawn edition of TS EN ISO 6165, but it remains a useful reference for understanding the classification and definitions of earth-moving machinery.