Forklift Fork Extension - Lift Truck extensions are a excellent option whenever there is a need to reach further than your current forks will allow. In some cases whenever you have a load that exceeds more than can be safely picked up on your lift truck, an extension could help you carry out your task safely.
Increasing Forklift Output
Lift truck extensions provide the extra support and capacity considered necessary whenever picking up long pallets, containers or really heavy loads. Also, the extensions add more length to the forks that enables the one operating it to be able to reach increased distances. Utilizing forklift extensions truly saves a business the requirement to buy separate machinery in order to do the task. This could save probably thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency options utilizing the equipment you already have.
A lot of the fork extensions would simply slip overtop of the forklift blades. Extensions can be bought so as to fit blades with widths from 4-6 inches. It is very essential that you measure the extensions to be sure of a proper fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width which is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is paramount to making sure the exact fit. When buying your extension size, be sure it is equivalent to your blade's width. For example, if you have forks which are six inches wide, you will use an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
OSHA standards for safety have a regulation length for fork extensions. Based on this particular regulation, blade extensions cannot be longer than 50% of the actual blade length. Following these rules will help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal lift truck extensions in order to avoid rust. The two most common sizes for forklift extensions in the trade are sixty inches and seventy two inches, although, different lengths are available.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are presented in two choices. The first choice connects the extensions onto the lift truck with one pull pin. This is the rapid release method. The next and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more secure 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 utilized when moving cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads comprise pipes, coils or drums. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are usually made of steel and could be built to fit forks up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Secured in place with a locking bar, they slip on and off effortlessly. Triangular extensions differ in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
It is always a great idea to use safety measures whenever handling whatever kind of industrial equipment and forklift extensions are no different. Checking your lift truck extensions prior to using it is also a good practice to get into. After the extensions have been positioned onto the lift truck, the attaching mechanism must be double checked too. Physical injury or damage to the load could occur if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations would even help in order to ensure the safety of the one operating it and individuals working nearby.
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