Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift Truck extensions are a excellent option whenever there is a need to reach further than your current forks will allow. In certain cases whenever you have a load which exceeds more than can be safely raised on your lift truck, an extension could help you execute your task safely.
Increasing Forklift Efficiency
Lift truck extensions provide the added capacity and support needed when raising containers, long pallets or really heavy loads. What's more, the extensions add more length to the forks that helps the person operating it to be able to reach increased distances. Utilizing forklift extensions truly saves a company the requirement to obtain individual machinery in order to do the job. This can save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity options making use of the machine you already have.
Lots of extensions just slip on top of the typical lift truck forks. Extensions could be obtained in order to fit blades that have widths of 4", 5" and 6". It is essential to measure your extensions to be able to obtain a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width that is half an inch wider as opposed to the size stated is vital to ensuring the accurate fit. Whenever buying your extension size, make sure it is equal to your fork's width. For instance, if you have blades which are 6 inches wide, you will use an extension that is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA that standardize the length of extension that you can utilize. Based on the regulation, extensions are not able to 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 steel forklift extensions to be able to avoid rust. The two most common measurements for forklift extensions in the industry are sixty inches and seventy two inches, although, various lengths are obtainable.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are offered in two choices. The first choice connects the extensions onto the lift truck with a single pull pin. This is the quick release mechanism. The next and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more dependable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are existing either tapered or non-tapered for most pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are utilized when moving cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads which comprise pipes, drums or coils are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are also made of steel. They are designed to fit blades up to 2" thick and that are 4" to 5" in width. Secured in place using a locking bar, they slide off and on without difficulty. Triangular extensions range in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is at all times a great plan to use safety measures when dealing with any kind of industrial equipment and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your forklift extensions prior to utilizing it is likewise a great practice to get into. After the extensions have been placed onto the lift truck, the attaching mechanism should be double checked too. Personal injury or destruction to the load can take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations would even help to be able to guarantee the safety of the individual operating it as well as others working nearby.
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