Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift Truck extensions are a terrific alternative when there is a need to reach further than your existing blades would allow. In several situations whenever you have a load which exceeds more than could be safely raised on your lift truck, an extension can help you execute your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Output
Extensions will offer extra support and capacity to the forklift whenever lifting or moving pallets, containers, or very heavy loads. Also, the extensions would add more length to the current blades enabling the person operating it to be able to reach further than before. Making use of lift truck extensions saves a business the need to obtain individual machinery to be able to finish the task. This can save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency options making use of the equipment you already have.
Numerous extensions just slip on top of the standard forklift blades. Extensions can be obtained so as to fit forks that have widths of 4", 5" and 6". It is vital to measure your extensions to be able to obtain a correct fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width which is half an inch wider than the size stated is paramount to ensuring the exact fit. Whenever obtaining your extension size, make sure it is equal to your blade's width. For example, if you have blades which are 6 inches wide, you would utilize an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA which regulate the length of extension which you could use. Based on the regulation, extensions cannot be longer than 50% of the actual blade length. Abiding by those rules would help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal forklift extensions in order to prevent corrosion. The two most popular measurements for lift truck extensions in the trade are 60" and 72", even if, various lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are available in two options. The first alternative secures the extensions onto the lift truck with one pull pin. This is the quick release mechanism. The next and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more dependable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are available in both tapered or non-tapered for nearly all pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are utilized 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 made to fit forks up to 2" thick and which are 4" to 5" in width. Secured in place utilizing a locking bar, they slip off and on with no trouble. Triangular extensions range in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is at all times a good idea to utilize safety precautions whenever handling whichever type of industrial equipment and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your lift truck extensions prior to use is likewise a good routine to get into. Once the extensions have been positioned onto the lift truck, the securing mechanism should be double checked too. Personal injury or damage to the load can take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Following OSHA regulations will even help to guarantee the safety of the person operating it and others working in close proximity.
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