Fork Extension for Forklift - Forklift extensions are a excellent choice when there is a need to reach further than your existing forks would allow. In several circumstances whenever you have a load that exceeds more than can be securely raised on your lift truck, an extension can help you carry out your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Efficiency
Extensions would provide added capacity and support to the forklift when moving or lifting pallets, containers, or very heavy cargo. Also, the extensions will add more length to the existing blades enabling the operator to be able to reach farther than before. Utilizing forklift extensions really saves a company the need to obtain separate machinery so as to do the job. This can save possibly thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency options making use of the equipment you already have.
Many extensions just slip on the standard lift truck forks. Extensions could be obtained so as to fit forks which have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is essential 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 compared to the the size stated is paramount to ensuring the accurate fit. When buying your extension size, make sure it is equivalent to your blade's width. For example, if you have blades that are six inches wide, you will make use of an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA which standardize the length of extension that you can use. Based on the guidelines, extensions are not able to be longer than 50 percent of the actual blade length. Following these rules would help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel forklift extensions to be able to avoid rust. The two most common sizes for lift truck extensions in the business are 60" and 72", though, different lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are available in two choices. The first alternative secures the extensions onto the forklift with a single pull pin. This is the quick release method. The second and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more dependable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are existing either tapered or non-tapered for the majority of container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used when transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads have drums, pipes or coils. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are usually 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 slip on and off without difficulty. Triangular extensions differ in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
Safety precautions should be utilized whenever utilizing whichever industrial device or machine and forklift extensions are no different. Checking your lift truck extensions prior to utilizing them is a very great practice to get into. After placing an extension onto the forklift, the attaching device should 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 would even help in order to guarantee the safety of the person operating it as well as people working close by.
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