Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift truck extensions are a great alternative whenever you find you have to reach further than your standard lift truck allows. As well, if you find that a load exceeds more than you can safely pick up on your forklift, an extension could help you complete your task safely.
Increasing Forklift Output
Forklift extensions offer the added support and capacity needed when picking up containers, long pallets or extremely heavy loads. Moreover, the extensions add more length to the forks which enables the person operating it to be able to reach increased distances. Making use of forklift extensions really saves a business the need to purchase separate machinery in order to complete the job. This can save probably thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency options utilizing the equipment you already have.
Many of the fork extensions would simply slip overtop of the lift truck blades. Extensions can be obtained so as to fit blades with widths from 4-6 inches. It is very important that you gauge the extensions to be sure of a correct fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width that is half an inch wider than the size stated is paramount to making sure the correct fit. Whenever obtaining your extension size, make certain it is equal to your fork's width. For example, if you have forks that 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 fork extensions. According to this particular regulation, fork extensions cannot be longer than 50 percent of the original fork length. Abiding by those rules will help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal forklift extensions so as to prevent corrosion. The two most common sizes for lift truck extensions in the industry are 60" and 72", even if, various lengths are obtainable.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are existing in two choices. The first choice secures the extensions onto the forklift with a single pull pin. This is the rapid release method. The next and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more dependable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are presented in both tapered or non-tapered for the majority of container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used when moving cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads have coils drums or pipes. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are typically constructed of steel and can be designed to fit forks up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place making use of a locking bar, they slip on and off easily. Triangular extensions vary in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is at all times a great idea to use safety measures when dealing with whichever kind of industrial equipment and forklift extensions are no different. Inspecting your forklift extensions prior to utilizing it is likewise a great routine to get into. After the extensions have been positioned onto the lift truck, the securing mechanism must be double checked also. Physical injury or damage to the load could occur if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Following OSHA regulations will even help in order to guarantee the safety of the individual operating it and those working nearby.
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