Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a great alternative whenever you find you need to reach further than your typical lift truck will allow. Additionally, if you find that a load exceeds more than you could securely lift on your forklift, an extension could help you carry out your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Output
Lift truck extensions provide the added capacity and support required when lifting containers, long pallets or extremely heavy loads. Also, the extensions add more length to the forks which enables the individual operating it to reach increased distances. Making use of lift truck extensions truly saves a company the need to purchase individual equipment in order to do the task. This could save possibly thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency choices with the machine you already have.
A lot of extensions just slip on the standard forklift blades. Extensions could be bought to be able to fit blades which have widths of 4", 5" and 6". It is important to measure your extensions in order to obtain a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width that is half an inch wider than the size stated is paramount to making sure the accurate fit. When acquiring your extension size, make certain it is equivalent to your fork's width. For example, if you have forks which are six inches wide, you would make use of an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA that standardize the length of extension that you can use. According to the guidelines, extensions are not able to be longer than 50% of the actual blade length. Abiding by these rules will help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal forklift extensions in order to avoid corrosion. The two most popular dimensions for lift truck extensions in the trade are 60" and 72", even though, other lengths are existing.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are offered in two choices. The first alternative connects the extensions onto the lift truck with one 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 forklift extensions are accessible in both tapered or non-tapered for nearly all container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads that consist of drums, coils or pipes are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are also constructed of steel. They are built to fit forks up to 2" thick and that are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place making use of a locking bar, they slide on and off easily. Triangular extensions differ in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
Safety measures must be utilized whenever utilizing whichever industrial tool or equipment and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your forklift extensions before utilizing them is a really great practice to get into. Right after placing an extension onto the lift truck, the attaching mechanism should be inspected. Personal injury or destruction to the load could occur if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations would also help in order to ensure the safety of the person operating it and others working nearby.
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