Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift truck extensions are a great choice whenever you find you have to reach further than your typical forklift allows. As well, if you find that a load exceeds more than you could securely lift on your forklift, an extension could help you carry out your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Output
Lift truck extensions offer the added support and capacity considered necessary when lifting containers, long pallets or very heavy loads. Also, the extensions add more length to the blades which helps the individual operating it to reach greater distances. Utilizing forklift extensions saves a company the need to acquire separate machinery in order to do the task. This could save probably thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency alternatives with the machine you already have.
A lot of the fork extensions will just slip overtop of the forklift blades. Extensions can be acquired to be able to fit blades with widths from 4-6 inches. It is very vital that you gauge the extensions to be certain of a proper fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width that is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is vital to making sure the exact fit. Whenever purchasing your extension size, be certain it is equivalent to your blade's width. For instance, if you have blades which are 6 inches wide, you would use an extension that is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
OSHA standards for safety have a regulation length for blade extensions. Based on this particular guideline, blade extensions cannot be longer than fifty percent of the actual blade length. Following these rules would help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel lift truck extensions so as to avoid corrosion. The two most common measurements for forklift extensions in the trade are sixty inches and seventy two inches, even if, various lengths are obtainable.
Securing Mechanism
There are two separate securing systems existing. The first option connects the extensions onto the forklift with a single pull pin. The second and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more dependable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are offered in both tapered or non-tapered for most pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads which comprise coils, pipes or drums are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are even made of steel. They are designed to fit blades up to 2" thick and which are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place using a locking bar, they slide on and off with no trouble. Triangular extensions vary in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
It is always a good idea to use safety measures when dealing with any type of industrial equipment and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your forklift extensions prior to using it is also a great habit to get into. Once the extensions have been placed onto the forklift, the attaching mechanism should be inspected too. Personal injury or damage to the load could occur if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations would likewise help to be able to ensure the safety of the operator and people working close by.
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