Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a good alternative whenever you find you have to reach further than your typical lift truck allows. Additionally, if you find that a load exceeds more than you could securely pick up on your lift truck, an extension can help you do your job safely.
Increasing Forklift Output
Extensions would offer added support and capacity to the lift truck whenever moving or lifting pallets, containers, or extremely heavy loads. Furthermore, the extensions would add more length to the existing forks enabling the person operating it to reach farther than before. Making use of lift truck extensions really saves a business the requirement to acquire individual machinery to be able to finish the task. This could save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency alternatives with the machinery you already have.
Numerous extensions just slip over the standard forklift blades. Extensions could be bought in order to fit blades that have widths of 4", 5" and 6". It is essential to measure your extensions so as to obtain a proper fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width that is half an inch wider than the size stated is vital to ensuring the right fit. When obtaining your extension size, be certain it is equivalent to your fork's width. For instance, if you have forks which are 6 inches wide, you will utilize an extension that is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA which standardize the length of extension that you can use. According to the guidelines, extensions cannot be longer than 50% of the actual fork length. Abiding by these rules will help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal forklift extensions to be able to prevent rust. The two most common dimensions for lift truck extensions in the trade are 60" and 72", even if, various lengths are obtainable.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are accessible in two options. The first alternative secures the extensions onto the lift truck with a single pull pin. This is the quick release mechanism. The second and safer option is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more secure attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are offered in both non-tapered or tapered for most container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used whenever transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads comprise coils drums or pipes. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are typically made of steel and could be made to fit forks up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Secured in place using a locking bar, they slide off and on effortlessly. Triangular extensions range in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
It is always a good idea to utilize safety measures whenever dealing with whatever kind of industrial equipment and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your lift truck extensions prior to use is likewise a great habit to get into. When the extensions have been placed onto the lift truck, the attaching mechanism must be double checked also. Physical injury or destruction to the load could occur if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Following OSHA regulations will also help in order to guarantee the safety of the individual operating it and those working close by.
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