Forklift Fork Extension - Forklift extensions are a terrific choice whenever there is a need to reach further than your current blades will allow. In certain cases when you have a load that exceeds more than can be securely picked up on your forklift, an extension can help you execute your task safely.
Increasing Forklift Efficiency
Extensions will provide added support and capacity to the forklift whenever moving or lifting pallets, containers, or extremely heavy cargo. Moreover, the extensions would add more length to the current blades enabling the person operating it to be able to reach farther than before. Utilizing lift truck extensions saves a company the requirement to acquire separate machinery in order to finish the job. This could save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency options utilizing the equipment you already have.
Many of the fork extensions would simply slip overtop of the forklift forks. Extensions can be bought to be able to fit forks with widths from four to six inches. It is extremely vital that you measure the extensions to be certain of a proper fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width which is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is paramount to making sure the accurate fit. Whenever acquiring your extension size, make sure it is equivalent to your fork's width. For instance, if you have blades that are 6 inches wide, you will make use of an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA that standardize the length of extension which you can use. According to the guidelines, extensions are not able to be longer than 50 percent of the original blade length. Following these rules would help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel forklift extensions so as to prevent rust. The two most common dimensions for forklift extensions in the business are sixty inches and seventy two inches, even if, various lengths are available.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are offered in two options. The first alternative connects the extensions onto the lift truck with one pull pin. This is the rapid release mechanism. The next and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more stable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are offered in both non-tapered or tapered for nearly all pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads which consist of pipes, drums or coils are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are even made of steel. They are built to fit forks up to 2" thick and that are 4" to 5" in width. Fixed in place making use of a locking bar, they slip off and on effortlessly. Triangular extensions differ in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is always a great idea to use safety precautions whenever handling whatever type of industrial equipment and forklift extensions are no different. Checking your forklift extensions before utilizing it is even a good routine to get into. When the extensions have been placed onto the lift truck, the attaching mechanism must be inspected also. Physical injury or destruction to the load can occur if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations will even help to be able to ensure the safety of the operator and individuals working nearby.
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