Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a terrific choice when there is a need to reach further than your current forks will allow. In some circumstances whenever you have a load that exceeds more than can be securely picked up on your lift truck, an extension can help you carry out your task safely.
Increasing Forklift Efficiency
Extensions will provide extra capacity and support to the forklift when moving or lifting pallets, containers, or really heavy cargo. Additionally, the extensions would add more length to the existing forks enabling the one operating it to be able to reach further than before. Utilizing forklift extensions truly saves a business the need to purchase individual equipment so as to do the job. This could save probably thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity choices utilizing the machine you already have.
Many of the fork extensions will simply slip overtop of the lift truck blades. Extensions can be obtained to fit blades with widths from four to six inches. It is extremely important that you gauge the extensions to be certain of a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width which is half an inch wider as opposed to the size stated is paramount to ensuring the accurate fit. When obtaining your extension size, be certain it is equal to your blade's width. For example, if you have blades that are six inches wide, you would utilize an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA which regulate the length of extension that you could use. Based on the guidelines, extensions can not be longer than 50% of the actual blade length. Following these rules would help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal lift truck extensions to avoid rust. The two most common measurements for forklift extensions in the industry are sixty inches and seventy two inches, even though, various lengths are existing.
Securing Mechanism
There are two individual securing systems existing. The first alternative secures the extensions onto the forklift with a single pull pin. The second and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more stable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are offered either tapered or non-tapered for the majority of pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads that comprise pipes, drums or coils are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are likewise made of steel. They are designed to fit blades up to 2" thick and that are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place using a locking bar, they slip off and on with no trouble. Triangular extensions vary in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is at all times a good plan to utilize safety measures whenever dealing with any kind of industrial equipment and forklift extensions are no different. Checking your forklift extensions before utilizing it is also a great routine to get into. When the extensions have been placed onto the lift truck, the attaching mechanism must be double checked also. Personal injury or damage to the load can take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Following OSHA regulations would even help to ensure the safety of the individual operating it as well as others working nearby.
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