Forklift Fork Extension - Forklift extensions are a excellent choice when there is a need to reach further than your existing forks would allow. In certain situations whenever you have a load that exceeds more than could be securely picked up on your lift truck, an extension could help you complete your task safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Productivity
Extensions will offer extra capacity and support to the forklift when lifting or moving pallets, containers, or very heavy loads. Moreover, the extensions would add more length to the current blades enabling the operator to reach further than before. Utilizing forklift extensions really saves a company the need to buy separate equipment in order to finish the job. This could save possibly thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity alternatives utilizing the machinery you already have.
Lots of extensions just slip on the standard lift truck forks. Extensions can be acquired in order to fit blades that have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is essential to measure your extensions in order to obtain a correct fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width that is half an inch wider as opposed to the size stated is vital to ensuring the accurate fit. When buying 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 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA that standardize the length of extension that you could utilize. Based on the regulation, extensions are not able to be longer than 50% of the actual blade length. Following these rules will help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel forklift extensions in order to prevent rust. The two most common dimensions for forklift extensions in the trade are sixty inches and seventy two inches, though, various lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
There are two separate securing mechanisms existing. The first alternative connects the extensions onto the forklift with one pull pin. The next and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more stable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are available either tapered or non-tapered for the majority of container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used whenever transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads comprise pipes, coils or drums. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are typically made of steel and could be made to fit forks up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place using a locking bar, they slide on and off with no trouble. Triangular extensions differ in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
Safety measures must be utilized whenever utilizing whatever industrial device or machinery 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 lift truck, the securing mechanism should be double checked. Physical injury or destruction to the load could occur if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations will likewise help to be able to guarantee the safety of the individual operating it and individuals working in close proximity.
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