Forklift Fork Extension - Lift truck extensions are a great choice when you find you need to reach further than your standard forklift will allow. As well, if you find that a load exceeds over what you could securely lift on your forklift, an extension could help you carry out your task safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Efficiency
Lift truck extensions provide the extra support and capacity needed whenever lifting long pallets, containers or very heavy loads. Furthermore, the extensions add more length to the blades that helps the one operating it to reach greater distances. Utilizing lift truck extensions truly saves a business the need to buy individual equipment so as to complete the task. This can save probably thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency options making use of the machinery you already have.
Several of the fork extensions would just slip overtop of the lift truck blades. Extensions could be bought in order to fit forks with widths from 4-6 inches. It is very important that you measure the extensions to be certain of 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 ensuring the correct fit. When buying your extension size, make certain it is equal to your fork's width. For example, if you have forks that are six inches wide, you would use an extension that is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
OSHA standards for safety have a regulation length for blade extensions. Based on this particular guideline, fork extensions cannot be longer than fifty percent of the original fork length. Following these rules will help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel forklift extensions to prevent corrosion. The two most common sizes for lift truck extensions in the industry are sixty inches and seventy two inches, although, various lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are available in two choices. The first option secures the extensions onto the forklift with a single pull pin. This is the quick release mechanism. The next and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more dependable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are presented either non-tapered or tapered for most container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever transporting 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 designed to fit blades up to 2" thick and that are 4" to 5" in width. Secured in place using a locking bar, they slip off and on without difficulty. Triangular extensions vary in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is at all times a good plan to use safety precautions whenever dealing with any type of industrial equipment and forklift extensions are no different. Inspecting your forklift extensions before use is likewise a good routine to get into. After the extensions have been placed onto the forklift, the securing mechanism must be inspected also. Physical injury or damage to the load could take place if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Following OSHA regulations would even help in order to guarantee the safety of the operator as well as those working close by.
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