Fork Extension for Forklift - Lift Truck extensions are a excellent alternative when there is a need to reach further than your existing forks will allow. In certain circumstances whenever you have a load which exceeds more than could be securely picked up on your lift truck, an extension could help you do your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Output
Extensions will provide extra capacity and support to the forklift when lifting or moving containers, pallets, or really heavy cargo. Also, the extensions will add more length to the existing blades enabling the one operating it to reach further than before. Utilizing lift truck extensions saves a company the requirement to purchase individual equipment in order to complete the task. This can save probably thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity options with the equipment you already have.
Many of the fork extensions would just slip overtop of the forklift forks. Extensions can be bought in order to fit blades with widths from four to six inches. It is really essential that you gauge the extensions to be certain of a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width which is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is paramount to making sure the correct fit. Whenever obtaining your extension size, be certain it is equivalent to your fork's width. For instance, if you have forks that are 6 inches wide, you will use an extension that is 6 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 fork length. Abiding by these rules would help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal lift truck extensions to avoid rust. The two most popular measurements for lift truck extensions in the trade are 60" and 72", even though, various lengths are existing.
Securing Mechanism
There are two individual securing systems existing. The first alternative connects the extensions onto the lift truck with a single pull pin. 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 offered either non-tapered or tapered for most container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads which comprise pipes, drums or coils are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are even constructed of steel. They are made to fit forks up to 2" thick and that are 4" to 5" in width. Fixed in place with a locking bar, they slip on and off easily. Triangular extensions differ in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is at all times a great idea to utilize safety precautions when handling any type of industrial equipment and forklift extensions are no different. Checking your forklift extensions prior to use is also a great habit to get into. Once the extensions have been placed onto the lift truck, the securing mechanism must be double checked too. Personal injury or destruction to the load can occur if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Following OSHA regulations will also help in order to ensure the safety of the one operating it and others working in close proximity.
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