Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift Truck extensions are a excellent option whenever there is a need to reach further than your existing forks would allow. In certain situations when you have a load which exceeds more than could be securely lifted on your lift truck, an extension could help you do your task safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Productivity
Extensions would offer extra capacity and support to the lift truck when moving or lifting containers, pallets, or really heavy cargo. In addition, the extensions will add more length to the existing forks enabling the person operating it to be able to reach farther than before. Utilizing lift truck extensions saves a business the need to purchase separate equipment in order to complete the task. This could save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity alternatives using the machine you already have.
A lot of the fork extensions will simply slip overtop of the lift truck blades. Extensions could be purchased to be able to fit blades with widths from four to six inches. It is really essential that you gauge the extensions to be sure of a proper 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 right fit. When buying your extension size, be certain it is equal to your fork's width. For instance, if you have forks that are 6 inches wide, you would use an extension that is 6 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 fifty percent of the actual blade length. Abiding by those rules will help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal lift truck extensions in order to avoid corrosion. The two most common dimensions for forklift extensions in the trade are sixty inches and seventy two inches, although, other lengths are obtainable.
Securing Mechanism
There are two separate securing systems available. The first alternative connects the extensions onto the forklift with a single pull pin. The next and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more stable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are offered either non-tapered or tapered for nearly all container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized when transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads comprise coils drums or pipes. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are usually constructed of steel and could be made to fit forks up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Fixed in place with a locking bar, they slide off and on without difficulty. Triangular extensions differ in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
Safety measures should be used whenever utilizing whichever industrial device or machine and forklift extensions are no different. Checking your forklift extensions before utilizing them is a very good practice to get into. Right after placing an extension onto the forklift, the securing device should be inspected. Physical injury or damage to the load can take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Following OSHA regulations will likewise help to guarantee the safety of the person operating it and people working nearby.
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