Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift Truck extensions are a excellent option whenever there is a need to reach further than your current forks will allow. In several situations whenever you have a load which exceeds more than can be securely picked up on your forklift, an extension can help you complete your task safely.
Increasing Forklift Efficiency
Extensions will offer extra support and capacity to the forklift whenever moving or lifting containers, pallets, or really heavy cargo. In addition, the extensions will add more length to the current forks enabling the person operating it to be able to reach farther than before. Utilizing forklift extensions really saves a company the requirement to obtain individual machinery to be able to do the task. This can save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency options utilizing the machine you already have.
A lot of the fork extensions would just slip overtop of the forklift forks. Extensions could be purchased to be able to fit blades with widths from 4-6 inches. It is extremely vital that you gauge the extensions to be certain of a proper fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width that is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is paramount to ensuring the correct fit. Whenever buying your extension size, be sure it is equal to your fork's width. For example, if you have forks that are six inches wide, you will utilize an extension which 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 would help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal lift truck extensions in order to avoid corrosion. The two most popular dimensions for forklift extensions in the industry are 60" and 72", even if, various lengths are existing.
Securing Mechanism
There are two separate securing mechanisms available. The first option connects the extensions onto the forklift with one pull pin. The second and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more dependable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are obtainable either tapered or non-tapered for most pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are used whenever transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads that comprise drums, coils or pipes are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are likewise made of steel. They are built to fit forks up to 2" thick and that are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place using a locking bar, they slide off and on without difficulty. Triangular extensions range in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
Safety measures should be used when utilizing any industrial tool or machinery and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your lift truck extensions before utilizing them is a really good practice to get into. Right after placing an extension onto the lift truck, the attaching mechanism should be inspected. Physical injury or damage to the load can occur if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations will even help to be able to ensure the safety of the one operating it as well as individuals working close by.
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