Fork Extension for Forklifts - Forklift extensions are a great choice whenever you find you have to reach further than your standard lift truck will allow. As well, if you find that a load exceeds over what you can securely lift on your lift truck, an extension could help you do your task safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Output
Extensions will provide extra support and capacity to the lift truck whenever lifting or moving pallets, containers, or really heavy cargo. Furthermore, the extensions would add more length to the existing blades enabling the individual operating it to be able to reach further than before. Making use of forklift extensions saves a business the requirement to obtain individual equipment in order to finish the task. This can save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency options with the machinery you already have.
Lots of extensions just slip on top of the standard forklift blades. Extensions can be obtained so as to fit blades that have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is essential to measure your extensions to be able to obtain a proper fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width which is half an inch wider than the size stated is paramount to making sure the exact fit. Whenever buying your extension size, make certain it is equal to your blade's width. For example, if you have blades which are 6 inches wide, you will use an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA which standardize the length of extension that you could utilize. Based on the regulation, extensions are not able to be longer than 50 percent of the original fork length. Abiding by these rules will help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal forklift extensions to be able to avoid rust. The two most popular sizes for forklift extensions in the business are 60" and 72", though, other lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are accessible in two choices. The first choice connects the extensions onto the forklift with one pull pin. This is the quick release method. The second and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more secure attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are accessible either non-tapered or tapered for most pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are used whenever transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads which have 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 easily. Triangular extensions differ in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is at all times a great idea to utilize safety precautions whenever dealing with whatever kind of industrial machinery and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your lift truck extensions before using it is also a good habit to get into. After the extensions have been positioned onto the forklift, the securing mechanism should be double checked too. Personal injury or destruction to the load could take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Following OSHA regulations would even help to be able to guarantee the safety of the one operating it as well as those working nearby.
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