Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a excellent option when there is a need to reach further than your existing forks would allow. In some circumstances whenever you have a load that exceeds more than can be securely picked up on your lift truck, an extension can help you execute your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Output
Extensions would offer added support and capacity to the lift truck when moving or lifting pallets, containers, or extremely heavy loads. What's more, the extensions will add more length to the current blades enabling the individual operating it to be able to reach further than before. Making use of forklift extensions saves a business the need to acquire separate equipment so as to finish the job. This can save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity options making use of the machine you already have.
Lots of extensions just slip on top of the typical lift truck forks. Extensions could be acquired to fit blades that have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is important to measure your extensions so as to obtain a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width which is half an inch wider than the size stated is paramount to making sure the correct fit. When purchasing your extension size, make certain it is equivalent to your fork's width. For instance, if you have blades which are six inches wide, you would make use of an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA that regulate the length of extension which you can utilize. Based on the guidelines, extensions are not able to be longer than fifty percent of the actual fork length. Following these rules will help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel forklift extensions to prevent corrosion. The two most popular sizes for lift truck extensions in the industry are sixty inches and seventy two inches, even though, other lengths are existing.
Securing Mechanism
There are two separate securing systems existing. The first option secures the extensions onto the lift truck with a single pull pin. The next and safer option 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 moving cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads that consist of pipes, drums or coils are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are also made of steel. They are made to fit forks up to 2" thick and that are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place with a locking bar, they slide off and on effortlessly. Triangular extensions range in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
It is always a great idea to use safety precautions whenever dealing with whatever type of industrial machinery and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your forklift extensions before using it is also a great habit to get into. Once the extensions have been placed onto the lift truck, the securing mechanism must be double checked as well. Personal injury or damage to the load can occur if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations will likewise help to be able to guarantee the safety of the one operating it as well as people working close by.
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