Fork Extension for Forklifts - Forklift extensions are a great option when you find you need to reach further than your standard lift truck will allow. Moreover, if you find that a load exceeds more than you can safely lift on your lift truck, an extension could help you do your task safely.
Increasing Forklift Efficiency
Forklift extensions provide the added capacity and support considered necessary whenever picking up long pallets, containers or very heavy loads. Additionally, the extensions add more length to the blades which enables the operator to be able to reach increased distances. Utilizing lift truck extensions really saves a business the requirement to buy separate equipment to be able to do the task. This can save probably thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency alternatives making use of the machinery you already have.
Lots of extensions just slip over the standard lift truck blades. Extensions could be obtained to be able to fit blades which have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is vital to measure your extensions to be able to obtain a proper fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width which is half an inch wider than the size stated is paramount to making sure the exact fit. Whenever buying your extension size, make sure it is equivalent to your fork's width. For instance, if you have blades which are 6 inches wide, you would utilize an extension which is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA which standardize the length of extension that you can utilize. Based on the regulation, extensions can not be longer than 50 percent of the actual blade length. Abiding by those rules would help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal lift truck extensions to prevent corrosion. The two most popular sizes for forklift extensions in the industry are sixty inches and seventy two inches, even if, different lengths are available.
Securing Mechanism
There are two separate securing systems available. The first alternative connects the extensions onto the lift truck with a single pull pin. The next and safer option is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more secure attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are available either tapered or non-tapered for nearly all pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are used whenever transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads that have pipes, drums or coils are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are likewise constructed of steel. They are designed to fit blades 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 with no trouble. Triangular extensions differ in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is at all times a good idea to use safety precautions whenever dealing with whichever type of industrial machinery and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your lift truck extensions prior to using it is likewise a good routine to get into. Once the extensions have been placed onto the lift truck, the securing mechanism should be double checked too. Personal injury or destruction to the load could take place if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations would also help to guarantee the safety of the individual operating it and people working nearby.
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