Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a terrific choice when there is a need to reach further than your current blades would allow. In some situations when you have a load that exceeds more than can be securely picked up on your lift truck, an extension can help you complete your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Productivity
Extensions would provide extra support and capacity to the lift truck when moving or lifting containers, pallets, or really heavy cargo. In addition, the extensions would add more length to the current blades enabling the one operating it to reach farther than before. Utilizing lift truck extensions truly saves a business the need to obtain individual equipment to be able to do the job. This can save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity alternatives utilizing the machinery you already have.
Many extensions just slip over the typical forklift forks. Extensions can be obtained to be able to fit blades that have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is essential to measure your extensions in order to obtain a proper 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 accurate fit. When acquiring your extension size, make certain it is equal to your blade's width. For example, if you have forks that are six inches wide, you would make use of an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA which standardize the length of extension that you could utilize. According to the regulation, extensions cannot be longer than 50% 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 forklift extensions in order to prevent rust. The two most popular measurements for forklift extensions in the industry are sixty inches and seventy two inches, even if, other lengths are obtainable.
Securing Mechanism
There are two individual securing systems existing. The first alternative secures the extensions onto the lift truck with one pull pin. The second and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more secure attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are presented in both tapered or non-tapered for the majority of pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are used whenever transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads consist of pipes, coils or drums. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are usually constructed of steel and can 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 without difficulty. Triangular extensions vary in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
Safety precautions should be used when utilizing any industrial device or equipment and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your lift truck extensions before using them is a very good habit to get into. After placing an extension onto the forklift, the securing device should be double checked. Physical injury or damage to the load can occur if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations will also help to guarantee the safety of the individual operating it and individuals working close by.
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