Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a excellent alternative whenever 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 can be safely raised on your forklift, an extension can help you carry out your job safely.
Increasing Forklift Output
Forklift extensions offer the added capacity and support required when lifting long pallets, containers or extremely heavy loads. Moreover, the extensions add more length to the blades that enables the individual operating it to be able to reach increased distances. Utilizing forklift extensions truly saves a business the requirement to purchase individual machinery to be able to complete the task. This could save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity choices utilizing the machinery you already have.
Many extensions just slip over the standard forklift blades. Extensions can be bought in order to fit blades that have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is essential to measure your extensions in order to obtain a proper 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 obtaining your extension size, be certain it is equivalent to your fork's width. For instance, if you have blades that are 6 inches wide, you will make use of an extension which is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA which regulate the length of extension which you could utilize. Based on the regulation, extensions cannot be longer than fifty percent of the original blade length. Following these rules will help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel lift truck extensions in order to avoid rust. The two most popular measurements for forklift extensions in the industry are sixty inches and seventy two inches, though, various lengths are existing.
Securing Mechanism
There are two separate securing mechanisms existing. The first option connects the extensions onto the forklift with a single pull pin. The second and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more dependable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are available either tapered or non-tapered for most container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized when transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads which have drums, coils or pipes are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are also made of steel. They are made to fit forks up to 2" thick and which are 4" to 5" in width. Secured in place with a locking bar, they slip off and on with no trouble. Triangular extensions differ in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
Safety precautions should be used when utilizing whichever industrial tool or equipment and forklift extensions are no different. Inspecting your lift truck extensions prior to using them is a very great practice to get into. After placing an extension onto the forklift, the securing device must be double checked. Personal injury or damage to the load can occur if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations will even help in order to guarantee the safety of the one operating it and those working nearby.
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