Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a good alternative whenever you find you have to reach further than your standard lift truck allows. Additionally, if you find that a load exceeds over what you can safely lift on your lift truck, an extension can help you complete your job safely.
Increasing Forklift Productivity
Forklift extensions provide the added support and capacity needed when picking up long pallets, containers or really heavy loads. In addition, the extensions add more length to the forks that enables the person operating it to reach increased distances. Utilizing forklift extensions saves a company the requirement to buy separate equipment in order to finish the job. This could save probably thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity options utilizing the machinery you already have.
Several of the fork extensions would simply slip overtop of the forklift blades. Extensions can be bought to be able to fit forks with widths from four to six inches. It is very essential that you measure the extensions to be sure of a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width which is half an inch wider than the size stated is paramount to ensuring the accurate fit. Whenever purchasing your extension size, make sure it is equal to your fork's width. For example, if you have blades that are 6 inches wide, you would utilize an extension that is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
OSHA standards for safety have a guideline length for fork extensions. Based on this particular guideline, fork extensions cannot be longer than fifty percent of the original blade length. Abiding by those rules would help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel lift truck extensions in order to prevent corrosion. The two most popular measurements for forklift extensions in the trade are 60" and 72", although, various lengths are obtainable.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are presented in two options. The first alternative connects the extensions onto the lift truck with a single pull pin. This is the quick release mechanism. The next and safer option is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more secure attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are existing either non-tapered or tapered for the majority of container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized when transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads have pipes, coils or drums. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are typically made of steel and can be made to fit blades up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place making use of a locking bar, they slide off and on effortlessly. Triangular extensions differ in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
It is always a great plan to use safety precautions whenever handling any kind of industrial machinery and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your lift truck extensions before using it is also a good routine to get into. After the extensions have been placed onto the forklift, the attaching mechanism should be inspected as well. Physical injury or destruction to the load could take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Following OSHA regulations will also help to guarantee the safety of the person operating it as well as individuals working nearby.
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