Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a terrific alternative whenever there is a need to reach further than your existing forks will allow. In several cases when you have a load that exceeds more than could be securely picked up on your lift truck, an extension can help you carry out your task safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Output
Extensions would offer extra capacity and support to the lift truck when lifting or moving containers, pallets, or very heavy cargo. Also, the extensions would add more length to the current blades enabling the operator to be able to reach further than before. Utilizing lift truck extensions truly saves a company the need to obtain separate equipment in order to complete the task. This could save possibly thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency options using the machine you already have.
A lot of extensions just slip on the typical lift truck blades. Extensions could be obtained to fit blades that have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is essential to measure your extensions so as to obtain a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width which is half an inch wider as opposed to the size stated is paramount to ensuring the right fit. When acquiring your extension size, be sure it is equivalent to your fork's width. For instance, if you have forks that are six inches wide, you would utilize an extension that is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA that standardize the length of extension that you can utilize. Based on the guidelines, extensions cannot be longer than 50 percent of the actual blade length. Following those rules will help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal lift truck extensions in order to prevent rust. The two most popular dimensions for forklift extensions in the industry are 60" and 72", although, other lengths are existing.
Securing Mechanism
There are two separate securing systems existing. The first option secures the extensions onto the forklift with one pull pin. The second and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more stable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are accessible in both tapered or non-tapered for most container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized when moving cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads comprise coils drums or pipes. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are usually made of steel and can be made to fit forks up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Secured in place using a locking bar, they slide off and on without difficulty. Triangular extensions vary in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
It is always a great plan to use safety precautions when handling whichever kind of industrial machinery and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your lift truck extensions before using it is likewise a good routine to get into. When the extensions have been positioned onto the forklift, the securing mechanism should be double checked too. Physical injury or destruction to the load could occur if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations would also help so as to guarantee the safety of the one operating it and individuals working in close proximity.
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