Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift Truck extensions are a terrific choice whenever there is a need to reach further than your existing blades will allow. In some situations when you have a load that exceeds more than can be safely raised on your forklift, an extension could help you complete your task safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Efficiency
Extensions would offer added capacity and support to the forklift when moving or lifting containers, pallets, or really heavy cargo. Also, the extensions would add more length to the existing forks enabling the individual operating it to be able to reach farther than before. Making use of lift truck extensions truly saves a company the requirement to obtain individual equipment so as to finish the job. This can save possibly thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency alternatives making use of the equipment you already have.
A lot of the fork extensions would 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 really important that you gauge the extensions to be certain of a correct fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width that is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is paramount to ensuring the correct fit. When buying your extension size, make sure it is equal to your blade's width. For instance, if you have blades that are 6 inches wide, you will utilize an extension that is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
OSHA standards for safety have a guideline length for blade extensions. According to this particular guideline, blade extensions cannot be longer than 50% of the original blade length. Following those rules will help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal lift truck extensions in order to avoid rust. The two most common measurements for forklift extensions in the business are sixty inches and seventy two inches, although, various lengths are available.
Securing Mechanism
There are two separate securing systems available. The first option connects the extensions onto the lift truck with one pull pin. The next and safer choice 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 most pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are used whenever moving cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads comprise drums, pipes or coils. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are normally constructed of steel and could be made to fit blades up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Secured in place with a locking bar, they slip on and off without difficulty. Triangular extensions differ in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is always a great idea to utilize safety measures when handling any type of industrial machinery and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your forklift extensions prior to use is likewise a great habit to get into. When the extensions have been placed onto the lift truck, the securing mechanism must be double checked as well. Personal injury or destruction to the load can occur if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations would even help so as to ensure the safety of the individual operating it as well as individuals working nearby.
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