Forklift Fork Extension - Forklift extensions are a good option when you find you have to reach further than your typical lift truck allows. Additionally, if you find that a load exceeds over what you could safely raise on your forklift, an extension could help you complete your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Efficiency
Extensions would offer extra capacity and support to the forklift whenever lifting or moving pallets, containers, or really heavy loads. Furthermore, the extensions will add more length to the existing blades enabling the person operating it to be able to reach farther than before. Utilizing forklift extensions really saves a business the need to purchase individual machinery so as to finish the job. This could save probably thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency choices with the machinery you already have.
A lot of the fork extensions would just slip overtop of the forklift forks. Extensions could be acquired so as to fit forks with widths from 4-6 inches. It is very essential that you measure the extensions to be certain of a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width which is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is paramount to ensuring the exact fit. Whenever acquiring your extension size, be certain it is equal to your blade's width. For instance, if you have blades that are six inches wide, you will use an extension which is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
OSHA standards for safety have a guideline length for blade extensions. According to this particular guideline, blade extensions cannot be longer than fifty percent of the original fork length. Following these rules will help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel lift truck extensions to be able to prevent rust. The two most common measurements for forklift extensions in the industry are 60" and 72", even if, different lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are offered in two options. The first alternative connects the extensions onto the forklift with one pull pin. This is the rapid release method. The next and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more secure attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are presented either non-tapered or tapered for the majority of pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are used when moving cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads comprise drums, pipes or coils. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are usually constructed of steel and could be designed to fit blades up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Fixed in place utilizing a locking bar, they slip on and off easily. Triangular extensions differ in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
Safety measures must be used when using whatever industrial device or machine and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your lift truck extensions prior to using them is a very good habit to get into. After placing an extension onto the lift truck, the securing mechanism must be inspected. Personal injury or destruction to the load can 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 individual operating it as well as individuals working close by.
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