Forklift Fork Extension - Lift Truck extensions are a terrific choice when there is a need to reach further than your existing blades will allow. In some cases whenever you have a load that exceeds more than can be securely picked up on your forklift, an extension can help you do your job safely.
Increasing Forklift Output
Lift truck extensions provide the added capacity and support required whenever lifting long pallets, containers or really heavy loads. In addition, the extensions add more length to the forks which enables the individual operating it to be able to reach increased distances. Utilizing lift truck extensions truly saves a company the need to purchase individual machinery to be able to complete the job. This could save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity alternatives using the equipment you already have.
A lot of the fork extensions will just slip overtop of the forklift forks. Extensions can be purchased to be able to fit forks with widths from four to six inches. It is extremely essential that you gauge the extensions to be certain of a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width which is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is vital to making sure the right fit. Whenever purchasing your extension size, make certain it is equal to your fork's width. For instance, if you have blades that are six inches wide, you would utilize an extension which is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
OSHA standards for safety have a regulation length for blade extensions. Based on this particular regulation, blade extensions cannot be longer than 50 percent of the actual fork length. Following those rules will help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal lift truck extensions to prevent corrosion. The two most popular dimensions for forklift extensions in the business are 60" and 72", though, different lengths are obtainable.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are accessible in two options. The first alternative connects the extensions onto the forklift with one pull pin. This is the quick release method. The second and safer option is the safety loop which is welded on and offers 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 utilized when transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads consist of drums, pipes or coils. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are normally constructed of steel and could be built to fit forks up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Fixed in place with a locking bar, they slide on and off with no trouble. Triangular extensions differ in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is always a good idea to use safety measures when handling whichever kind of industrial equipment and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your forklift extensions prior to utilizing it is even a good practice to get into. Once the extensions have been placed onto the lift truck, the attaching mechanism must be double checked too. Physical injury or destruction to the load could take place if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations would even help so as to guarantee the safety of the person operating it and those working nearby.
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