Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a excellent alternative when there is a need to reach further than your current forks will allow. In certain cases whenever you have a load which exceeds more than can be securely lifted on your lift truck, an extension could help you carry out your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Output
Forklift extensions provide the extra capacity and support needed when picking up containers, long pallets or extremely heavy loads. What's more, the extensions add more length to the blades which helps the operator to be able to reach greater distances. Making use of lift truck extensions really saves a business the need to acquire individual equipment so as to do the job. This could save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity options utilizing the equipment you already have.
A lot of extensions just slip on top of the typical lift truck forks. Extensions could be acquired to be able to fit blades which have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is vital to measure your extensions to be able to obtain a correct fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width that is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is paramount to making sure the accurate fit. When buying your extension size, make sure it is equal to your blade's width. For instance, if you have blades which are six inches wide, you will make use of an extension that is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA that standardize the length of extension which you could utilize. Based on the guidelines, extensions cannot be longer than 50% of the actual blade length. Following those rules would help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel lift truck extensions so as to avoid rust. The two most popular dimensions for lift truck extensions in the industry are sixty inches and seventy two inches, even though, different lengths are obtainable.
Securing Mechanism
There are two individual securing mechanisms existing. The first choice secures the extensions onto the forklift with a single pull pin. The next and safer option is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more secure attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are available either non-tapered or tapered for the majority of container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used when transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads consist of coils drums or pipes. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are typically made of steel and could be designed to fit forks up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Fixed in place with a locking bar, they slide on and off effortlessly. Triangular extensions vary in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is at all times a good idea to use safety measures when handling whatever type of industrial machinery and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your forklift extensions prior to utilizing it is likewise a great routine to get into. When the extensions have been placed onto the lift truck, the securing mechanism should be double checked too. Physical injury or damage to the load can occur if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations would also help to ensure the safety of the person operating it as well as individuals working nearby.
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