Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift Truck extensions are a excellent alternative whenever there is a need to reach further than your current blades will allow. In some circumstances whenever you have a load which exceeds more than can be securely lifted on your forklift, an extension could help you execute your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Efficiency
Lift truck extensions provide the extra support and capacity considered necessary when lifting long pallets, containers or really heavy loads. Furthermore, the extensions add more length to the blades that helps the one operating it to be able to reach increased distances. Utilizing lift truck extensions really saves a company the requirement to purchase separate equipment to be able to finish the job. This can save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity choices using the machinery you already have.
Many of the fork extensions would simply slip overtop of the lift truck blades. Extensions can be acquired to fit blades with widths from four to six inches. It is very vital that you measure the extensions to be certain of a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width that is half an inch wider than the size stated is paramount to making sure the accurate fit. When buying your extension size, be certain it is equal to your blade's width. For instance, if you have forks that are six inches wide, you would make use of an extension which is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
OSHA standards for safety have a regulation length for fork extensions. According to this particular regulation, blade extensions cannot 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 metal forklift extensions in order to prevent corrosion. The two most popular dimensions for lift truck extensions in the trade are 60" and 72", though, various lengths are existing.
Securing Mechanism
There are two individual securing systems existing. The first choice secures the extensions onto the lift truck with a single pull pin. The next and safer option is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more stable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are available 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 coils drums or pipes. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are usually made of steel and can be built to fit forks up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Secured in place utilizing a locking bar, they slip on and off effortlessly. Triangular extensions vary in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
It is always a good idea to use safety precautions whenever handling whatever type of industrial machinery and forklift extensions are no different. Inspecting your forklift extensions prior to use is also a good practice to get into. When the extensions have been placed onto the lift truck, the attaching mechanism should be inspected also. Personal injury or destruction to the load can occur if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations would likewise help in order to ensure the safety of the person operating it and those working in close proximity.
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