Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a great alternative whenever you find you have to reach further than your standard lift truck will allow. As well, if you find that a load exceeds more than you can securely raise on your lift truck, an extension can help you carry out your task safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Efficiency
Extensions will provide extra support and capacity to the forklift when lifting or moving pallets, containers, or very heavy loads. Additionally, the extensions will add more length to the current forks enabling the one operating it to reach further than before. Utilizing forklift extensions truly saves a company the requirement to buy individual equipment so as to finish the task. This can save probably thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity options utilizing the machinery you already have.
Several of the fork extensions will simply slip overtop of the lift truck forks. Extensions can be obtained to fit forks with widths from 4-6 inches. It is extremely vital that you measure the extensions to be certain of a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width which is half an inch wider as opposed to the size stated is paramount to making sure the exact fit. Whenever buying your extension size, be sure it is equivalent to your fork's width. For instance, if you have forks which are 6 inches wide, you will utilize an extension which is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
OSHA standards for safety have a regulation length for blade extensions. According to this particular guideline, fork extensions cannot be longer than fifty percent of the actual fork length. Abiding by these rules will help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel lift truck extensions to prevent corrosion. The two most common sizes for lift truck extensions in the trade are sixty inches and seventy two inches, even if, other lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are available in two options. The first option connects the extensions onto the forklift with a single pull pin. This is the rapid release method. The second and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more dependable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are existing either tapered or non-tapered for most container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used when transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads which consist of drums, coils or pipes are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are even constructed of steel. They are built to fit forks up to 2" thick and which are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place with a locking bar, they slip on and off without difficulty. Triangular extensions differ in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
Safety precautions should be used when using whatever industrial device or equipment and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your lift truck extensions prior to using them is a very good habit to get into. Right after placing an extension onto the forklift, the securing mechanism must be double checked. Personal injury or damage to the load can take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations would likewise help so as to ensure the safety of the operator and people working nearby.
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