Fork Extension for Forklifts - Lift Truck extensions are a terrific option whenever there is a need to reach further than your existing forks would allow. In certain cases whenever you have a load that exceeds more than can be securely picked up on your forklift, an extension can help you complete your job safely.
Increasing Forklift Efficiency
Extensions would offer added support and capacity to the lift truck whenever moving or lifting containers, pallets, or really heavy loads. Moreover, the extensions would add more length to the existing blades enabling the individual operating it to reach farther than before. Utilizing lift truck extensions truly saves a business the need to obtain individual machinery to be able to do the job. This can save probably thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency alternatives making use of the machine you already have.
A lot of extensions just slip over the typical forklift blades. Extensions could be acquired so as to fit blades that have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is important to measure your extensions to be able to obtain a proper fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width which is half an inch wider than the size stated is vital to ensuring the correct fit. When obtaining your extension size, make certain it is equal to your fork's width. For instance, if you have blades which are 6 inches wide, you would make use of an extension which is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA which standardize the length of extension that you could use. Based on the guidelines, extensions cannot be longer than 50% of the actual blade length. Abiding by those rules will help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal lift truck extensions so as to prevent rust. The two most common dimensions for lift truck extensions in the industry are 60" and 72", though, other lengths are obtainable.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are obtainable in two choices. The first option secures the extensions onto the lift truck with one pull pin. This is the quick release mechanism. The second and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more stable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are obtainable either tapered or non-tapered for nearly all pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are used when 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 designed to fit blades up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Fixed in place using a locking bar, they slide on and off easily. Triangular extensions range in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
Safety measures must be utilized when using whichever industrial device or machinery and forklift extensions are no different. Inspecting your forklift extensions before utilizing them is a very great habit to get into. Right after placing an extension onto the lift truck, the attaching mechanism must be inspected. Physical injury or destruction to the load can occur if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Following OSHA regulations will likewise help to guarantee the safety of the one operating it and those working nearby.
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