Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift truck extensions are a great option whenever you find you have to reach further than your typical forklift will allow. In addition, if you find that a load exceeds more than you could safely lift on your lift truck, an extension could help you do your task safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Efficiency
Forklift extensions offer the extra support and capacity required whenever picking up long pallets, containers or extremely heavy loads. Also, the extensions add more length to the blades that helps the one operating it to be able to reach greater distances. Making use of forklift extensions really saves a company the need to purchase individual machinery to be able to do the job. This can save probably thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency choices utilizing the machine you already have.
Lots of extensions just slip on top of the typical forklift blades. Extensions can be bought to be able to fit blades that have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is essential to measure your extensions so as to obtain a correct fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width which is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is vital to ensuring the correct fit. Whenever obtaining your extension size, be sure it is equal to your blade's width. For instance, if you have blades that are six inches wide, you will use an extension that is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
OSHA standards for safety have a regulation length for blade extensions. Based on this particular regulation, blade extensions cannot be longer than fifty percent of the actual fork length. Following these rules will help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal forklift extensions so as to prevent corrosion. The two most common sizes for lift truck extensions in the trade are sixty inches and seventy two inches, though, different lengths are available.
Securing Mechanism
There are two individual securing systems existing. The first option connects the extensions onto the forklift with one pull pin. The second and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more stable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are offered either tapered or non-tapered for most container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized when moving cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads consist of drums, pipes or coils. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are typically made of steel and can be built to fit forks up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place utilizing a locking bar, they slip on and off without difficulty. Triangular extensions vary in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
Safety measures must be utilized when utilizing whichever industrial device or equipment and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your lift truck extensions before using them is a really good practice to get into. After placing an extension onto the forklift, the securing mechanism should be inspected. Physical injury or destruction to the load can take place if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations will even help to guarantee the safety of the person operating it and others working close by.
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