Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift Truck extensions are a terrific alternative whenever there is a need to reach further than your existing forks will allow. In some cases whenever you have a load that exceeds more than could be safely raised on your forklift, an extension can help you execute your job safely.
Increasing Forklift Productivity
Extensions would provide extra support and capacity to the forklift when lifting or moving pallets, containers, or extremely heavy loads. What's more, the extensions would add more length to the current blades enabling the one operating it to be able to reach further than before. Making use of forklift extensions truly saves a company the need to acquire separate machinery in order to finish the job. This can save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency alternatives making use of the equipment you already have.
Lots of extensions just slip on top of the typical forklift forks. Extensions could be purchased to be able to fit forks which have widths of 4", 5" and 6". It is vital to measure your extensions so as to obtain a proper fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width which is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is vital to making sure the correct fit. Whenever acquiring your extension size, be sure it is equivalent to your blade's width. For example, if you have forks that are six inches wide, you would utilize an extension that is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
OSHA standards for safety have a regulation length for blade extensions. Based on this particular guideline, fork extensions cannot be longer than fifty percent 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 lift truck extensions to prevent rust. The two most popular dimensions for forklift extensions in the industry are sixty inches and seventy two inches, even if, other lengths are available.
Securing Mechanism
There are two individual securing systems existing. The first option secures the extensions onto the lift truck with one pull pin. The second and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more secure attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are available either tapered or non-tapered for most container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used whenever transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads comprise drums, pipes or coils. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are usually made of steel and can be built to fit blades up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Secured in place with a locking bar, they slide off and on with no trouble. Triangular extensions differ in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
Safety measures should be used when using any industrial device or machinery and forklift extensions are no different. Checking your forklift extensions before using them is a really good practice to get into. After placing an extension onto the forklift, the securing mechanism must be inspected. Physical injury or destruction to the load could occur if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Following OSHA regulations would even help to guarantee the safety of the operator as well as individuals working nearby.
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