Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift Truck extensions are a excellent option whenever there is a need to reach further than your current blades will allow. In some cases whenever you have a load that exceeds more than could be safely picked up on your forklift, an extension could help you execute your task safely.
Increasing Forklift Efficiency
Extensions would provide extra support and capacity to the lift truck when moving or lifting pallets, containers, or extremely heavy cargo. Moreover, the extensions would add more length to the existing forks enabling the person operating it to be able to reach further than before. Making use of forklift extensions saves a business the requirement to purchase separate machinery to be able to finish the job. This could save probably thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity options with the machine you already have.
Several of the fork extensions would just slip overtop of the forklift blades. Extensions can be obtained to fit forks with widths from four to six inches. It is really vital that you measure 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 making sure the correct fit. Whenever acquiring your extension size, make certain it is equal to your blade's width. For instance, if you have forks which are six inches wide, you will use an extension that 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. Following these rules will help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel lift truck extensions to be able to avoid corrosion. The two most common measurements for lift truck extensions in the trade are 60" and 72", though, other lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are available in two choices. The first option secures the extensions onto the lift truck with a single pull pin. This is the rapid release method. The next and safer option is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more secure attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are accessible either tapered or non-tapered for nearly all container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used whenever transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads have pipes, coils or drums. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are usually constructed of steel and could be built to fit forks up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Secured in place making use of a locking bar, they slide on and off without difficulty. Triangular extensions differ in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is always a great plan to utilize safety measures when dealing with any kind of industrial equipment and forklift extensions are no different. Checking your lift truck extensions prior to utilizing it is likewise a good practice to get into. Once the extensions have been positioned onto the forklift, the securing mechanism should be inspected too. Physical injury or damage to the load can occur if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations would likewise help to be able to guarantee the safety of the individual operating it as well as people working close by.
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