Fork Extension for Forklift - Lift truck extensions are a good alternative whenever you find you need to reach further than your standard forklift will allow. As well, if you find that a load exceeds more than you could safely raise on your forklift, an extension can help you do your task safely.
Increasing Forklift Productivity
Forklift extensions offer the extra capacity and support needed when picking up containers, long pallets or extremely heavy loads. Additionally, the extensions add more length to the blades that helps the individual operating it to reach increased distances. Utilizing forklift extensions really saves a business the need to purchase individual machinery to be able to do the job. This could save probably thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency choices using the machine you already have.
Several of the fork extensions would just slip overtop of the lift truck forks. Extensions can be obtained so as to fit forks with widths from 4-6 inches. It is extremely vital that you gauge the extensions to be sure of a right 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 exact fit. When obtaining your extension size, make certain it is equivalent to your blade's width. For instance, if you have forks which are 6 inches wide, you will make use of an extension that is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA that regulate the length of extension that you can utilize. Based on the guidelines, extensions cannot be longer than 50 percent of the original blade length. Abiding by these rules would help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel lift truck extensions in order to prevent rust. The two most popular sizes for lift truck extensions in the industry are sixty inches and seventy two inches, even though, various lengths are obtainable.
Securing Mechanism
There are two separate securing mechanisms available. 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 dependable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are presented in both non-tapered or tapered for the majority of container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized when moving cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads which have coils, pipes or drums are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are likewise constructed of steel. They are made to fit forks up to 2" thick and that are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place making use of a locking bar, they slide off and on without difficulty. Triangular extensions range 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 lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your forklift extensions prior to using it is also a great habit to get into. When the extensions have been placed onto the forklift, the securing mechanism should be inspected too. Personal injury or damage to the load could occur if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations will also help to ensure the safety of the operator and individuals working nearby.
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