Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift Truck extensions are a terrific option when there is a need to reach further than your existing forks will allow. In some cases whenever you have a load which exceeds more than can be securely picked up on your lift truck, an extension can help you execute your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Efficiency
Extensions would provide added capacity and support to the forklift when lifting or moving pallets, containers, or extremely heavy cargo. Furthermore, the extensions would add more length to the existing blades enabling the person operating it to be able to reach farther than before. Making use of forklift extensions really saves a company the requirement to acquire separate machinery in order to do the job. This could save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency alternatives using the equipment you already have.
A lot of the fork extensions will just slip overtop of the lift truck forks. Extensions can be purchased to be able to fit forks with widths from 4-6 inches. It is really vital that you gauge the extensions to be sure of a correct fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width that is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is paramount to making sure the right fit. Whenever purchasing your extension size, make certain it is equal to your fork's width. For example, if you have forks which are 6 inches wide, you would utilize an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA that standardize the length of extension which you can utilize. Based on the regulation, extensions cannot be longer than 50 percent of the actual fork length. Following these rules would help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel lift truck extensions to be able to avoid rust. The two most common measurements for forklift extensions in the trade are sixty inches and seventy two inches, even if, various lengths are available.
Securing Mechanism
There are two individual securing systems available. The first alternative secures the extensions onto the forklift with one pull pin. The second and safer option is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more secure attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are obtainable either non-tapered or tapered for nearly all container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used whenever transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads consist of 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. Secured in place making use of a locking bar, they slip on and off without difficulty. Triangular extensions range in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
Safety precautions should be used whenever using any industrial tool or equipment and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your lift truck extensions before utilizing them is a very great routine to get into. After placing an extension onto the forklift, the attaching mechanism must be double checked. Personal injury or destruction to the load could take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations will also help in order to ensure the safety of the person operating it and individuals working nearby.
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