Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a terrific alternative whenever there is a need to reach further than your current blades would allow. In several situations when you have a load that exceeds more than can be safely picked up on your forklift, an extension can help you execute your job safely.
Increasing Forklift Output
Extensions would provide extra capacity and support to the lift truck when lifting or moving pallets, containers, or very heavy loads. What's more, the extensions will add more length to the current blades enabling the individual operating it to reach further than before. Utilizing forklift extensions saves a company the requirement to purchase individual machinery in order to finish the job. This can save probably thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency alternatives with the machinery you already have.
Many extensions just slip over the typical lift truck blades. Extensions could be obtained to be able to fit blades which have widths of 4", 5" and 6". It is important to measure your extensions to be able to obtain a correct fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width that is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is vital to ensuring the correct fit. When obtaining your extension size, make sure it is equivalent to your blade's width. For example, if you have blades which are 6 inches wide, you will use an extension which is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA which regulate the length of extension which you could utilize. Based on the guidelines, extensions can not be longer than fifty percent of the actual fork length. Abiding by those rules will help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal forklift extensions to prevent rust. The two most common measurements for lift truck extensions in the trade are sixty inches and seventy two inches, although, other lengths are existing.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are presented in two choices. The first option secures the extensions onto the lift truck with a single pull pin. This is the rapid release mechanism. The next and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more dependable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are existing either tapered or non-tapered for nearly all container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads that have coils, pipes or drums are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are even constructed of steel. They are designed to fit blades up to 2" thick and that are 4" to 5" in width. Fixed in place making use of a locking bar, they slip on and off without difficulty. Triangular extensions differ in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
It is at all times a good idea to use safety measures when dealing with whichever type of industrial machinery and forklift extensions are no different. Inspecting your lift truck extensions before using it is even a great habit to get into. When the extensions have been placed onto the lift truck, the attaching mechanism should be double checked too. Personal injury or destruction to the load could take place if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Following OSHA regulations will also help in order to guarantee the safety of the one operating it and individuals working nearby.
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