Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift Truck extensions are a excellent choice whenever there is a need to reach further than your existing forks would allow. In certain cases whenever you have a load which exceeds more than can be safely lifted on your lift truck, an extension can help you execute your job safely.
Increasing Forklift Output
Extensions will offer extra capacity and support to the forklift when lifting or moving pallets, containers, or really heavy loads. Moreover, the extensions would add more length to the existing forks enabling the individual operating it to be able to reach further than before. Making use of forklift extensions really saves a company the need to acquire individual equipment so as to do the job. This can save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity alternatives utilizing the equipment you already have.
A lot of extensions just slip on top of the standard forklift forks. Extensions could be bought to be able to fit forks that have widths of 4", 5" and 6". It is important to measure your extensions to be able to obtain a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width that is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is paramount to ensuring the accurate fit. Whenever purchasing your extension size, be sure it is equivalent to your blade's width. For instance, if you have forks which are six inches wide, you will 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 which you can use. According to the regulation, extensions are not able to be longer than fifty percent of the original fork length. Abiding by these rules would help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel lift truck extensions in order to avoid corrosion. The two most common sizes for lift truck extensions in the industry are 60" and 72", even though, other lengths are obtainable.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are offered in two options. The first alternative secures the extensions onto the forklift with one pull pin. This is the quick release mechanism. The next and safer option is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more secure attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are accessible either tapered or non-tapered for the majority of container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used when transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads that have pipes, drums or coils are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are also made of steel. They are designed to fit forks up to 2" thick and that 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 fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
It is always a good plan to utilize safety precautions whenever dealing with whichever type of industrial machinery and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your forklift extensions prior to utilizing it is likewise a good routine to get into. Once the extensions have been positioned onto the lift truck, the securing mechanism must be double checked also. Physical injury or damage to the load could take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Following OSHA regulations will likewise help to be able to guarantee the safety of the one operating it as well as people working in close proximity.
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