Forklift Fork Extension - Lift Truck extensions are a terrific choice whenever there is a need to reach further than your existing forks would allow. In certain situations when you have a load which exceeds more than can be securely raised on your forklift, an extension could help you do your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Output
Lift truck extensions offer the extra support and capacity considered necessary when lifting containers, long pallets or extremely heavy loads. In addition, the extensions add more length to the forks which enables the operator to reach greater distances. Making use of lift truck extensions saves a business the need to purchase individual machinery so as to finish the task. This could save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency choices with the machinery you already have.
Lots of extensions just slip over the standard forklift blades. Extensions could be bought to fit forks that have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is vital to measure your extensions so as to obtain a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width that is half an inch wider than the size stated is vital to ensuring the right fit. When acquiring your extension size, be sure it is equal to your fork's width. For instance, if you have blades which are 6 inches wide, you will make use of an extension that is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA which standardize the length of extension that you can utilize. According to the guidelines, extensions can not be longer than fifty percent of the original fork length. Abiding by those rules will help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal forklift extensions so as to avoid rust. The two most common sizes for lift truck extensions in the industry are sixty inches and seventy two inches, even though, other lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
There are two individual securing mechanisms existing. The first alternative connects 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 dependable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are available either tapered or non-tapered for most container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads that comprise coils, pipes or drums are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are likewise made of steel. They are designed to fit blades up to 2" thick and that are 4" to 5" in width. Fixed in place making use of a locking bar, they slide on and off with no trouble. Triangular extensions vary in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
It is always a great idea to utilize safety measures whenever dealing with whatever type of industrial machinery and forklift extensions are no different. Inspecting your forklift extensions prior to using it is likewise a good habit to get into. When the extensions have been positioned onto the forklift, the securing mechanism must be inspected as well. Personal injury or damage to the load could take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Following OSHA regulations would even help in order to guarantee the safety of the operator as well as others working in close proximity.
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