Fork Extension for Forklifts - Lift Truck extensions are a terrific choice whenever there is a need to reach further than your current forks would allow. In some circumstances when you have a load which exceeds more than can be securely picked up on your forklift, an extension can help you do your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Productivity
Forklift extensions provide the extra support and capacity considered necessary when picking up long pallets, containers or extremely heavy loads. In addition, the extensions add more length to the blades which enables the operator to be able to reach increased distances. Making use of forklift extensions saves a company the need to obtain individual machinery so as to complete the job. This can save probably thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency alternatives using the machinery you already have.
Many of the fork extensions will simply slip overtop of the lift truck forks. Extensions could be bought so as to fit forks with widths from 4-6 inches. It is extremely essential that you measure the extensions to be sure of a correct fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width which is half an inch wider than the size stated is paramount to making sure the right fit. Whenever buying your extension size, make sure it is equal to your blade's width. For example, if you have forks which are 6 inches wide, you would utilize an extension that is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA that standardize the length of extension that you could use. According to the guidelines, extensions can not be longer than 50 percent of the actual blade length. Abiding by those rules will 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 popular measurements for forklift extensions in the business 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 a single pull pin. The next and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more secure attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are obtainable either tapered or non-tapered for the majority of container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used when transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads which have drums, coils or pipes are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are also made of steel. They are made to fit blades up to 2" thick and which 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 differ in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is always a good idea to use safety precautions when handling any type of industrial machinery and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your lift truck extensions prior to use is also a great habit to get into. After the extensions have been placed onto the lift truck, the securing mechanism must be double checked as well. Personal injury or destruction to the load can take place if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations would even help to guarantee the safety of the person operating it and those working close by.
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