Fork Extension for Forklifts - Forklift extensions are a great choice whenever you find you have to reach further than your typical lift truck will allow. In addition, if you find that a load exceeds over what you can securely pick up on your forklift, an extension could help you carry out your job safely.
Increasing Forklift Efficiency
Extensions would provide extra capacity and support to the forklift whenever lifting or moving containers, pallets, or very heavy loads. Moreover, the extensions would add more length to the existing blades enabling the one operating it to be able to reach farther than before. Making use of lift truck extensions saves a business the requirement to obtain separate equipment in order to complete the task. This could save probably thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency options with the machine you already have.
A lot of the fork extensions will simply slip overtop of the lift truck forks. Extensions can be obtained so as to fit blades with widths from four to six inches. It is very vital that you gauge 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 vital to ensuring the correct fit. When buying your extension size, make certain it is equivalent to your blade's width. For example, if you have forks which are 6 inches wide, you would 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. Based on the regulation, extensions can not be longer than 50% of the actual fork length. Abiding by those rules will help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel forklift extensions to avoid rust. The two most popular dimensions for lift truck extensions in the industry are 60" and 72", even if, various lengths are available.
Securing Mechanism
There are two separate securing systems existing. The first choice secures the extensions onto the forklift with a single pull pin. The second and safer option is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more dependable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are existing either tapered or non-tapered for nearly all container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used whenever transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads that comprise coils, pipes or drums are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are likewise constructed of steel. They are made to fit forks up to 2" thick and that are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place making use of a locking bar, they slip on and off effortlessly. Triangular extensions range in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
Safety precautions must be utilized when using whatever industrial tool or equipment and forklift extensions are no different. Inspecting your lift truck extensions before using them is a really great practice to get into. After placing an extension onto the lift truck, the securing mechanism should be double checked. Physical injury or destruction to the load could occur if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Following OSHA regulations will likewise help to ensure the safety of the one operating it and others working nearby.
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