Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift truck extensions are a great choice whenever you find you need to reach further than your typical forklift will allow. Additionally, if you find that a load exceeds over what you could safely lift on your forklift, an extension can help you do your task safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Output
Forklift extensions offer the extra capacity and support needed when lifting long pallets, containers or very heavy loads. Moreover, the extensions add more length to the forks that enables the person operating it to reach increased distances. Utilizing forklift extensions truly saves a company the need to purchase separate equipment to be able to do the task. This can save probably thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency alternatives with the machinery you already have.
Many of the fork extensions would simply slip overtop of the forklift forks. Extensions could be acquired in order to fit forks with widths from 4-6 inches. It is extremely important that you gauge 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 making sure the accurate fit. Whenever obtaining your extension size, make certain it is equal to your fork's width. For instance, if you have forks that are six inches wide, you will utilize an extension that is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA which standardize the length of extension that you could use. According to the regulation, extensions are not able to be longer than 50 percent of the original blade length. Abiding by these rules would help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal forklift extensions to be able to avoid corrosion. The two most common sizes for lift truck extensions in the trade are 60" and 72", even though, other lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are existing in two choices. The first alternative secures the extensions onto the forklift with a single pull pin. This is the quick release mechanism. The second and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more dependable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are obtainable in both non-tapered or tapered for nearly all container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized when transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads have drums, pipes or coils. 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. Fixed in place making use of a locking bar, they slip on and off easily. Triangular extensions range in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
Safety measures should be used when using any industrial device or machine and forklift extensions are no different. Inspecting your forklift extensions before utilizing them is a very great practice to get into. Right after placing an extension onto the forklift, the securing mechanism should be inspected. Physical injury or destruction to the load can take place if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Following OSHA regulations would even help so as to ensure the safety of the individual operating it as well as individuals working close by.
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