Forklift Fork Extension - Lift Truck extensions are a excellent choice when there is a need to reach further than your existing forks will allow. In some situations whenever you have a load that exceeds more than could be securely picked up on your forklift, an extension can help you do your job safely.
Increasing Forklift Output
Extensions would offer extra support and capacity to the forklift whenever moving or lifting containers, pallets, or very heavy loads. Furthermore, the extensions will add more length to the current forks enabling the individual operating it to reach further than before. Making use of lift truck extensions saves a business the requirement to acquire separate machinery so as to finish the job. This could save probably thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity alternatives making use of the machine you already have.
Lots of extensions just slip on the standard lift truck blades. Extensions can be acquired to be able to fit blades which have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is vital to measure your extensions to be able to obtain a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width which is half an inch wider as opposed to the size stated is vital to making sure the correct fit. Whenever buying your extension size, make sure it is equal to your fork's width. For example, if you have forks that are six inches wide, you will use an extension which is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA that regulate the length of extension which you can use. Based on the regulation, extensions cannot be longer than 50 percent of the actual fork length. Abiding by these rules will help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel forklift extensions to be able to avoid corrosion. The two most common measurements for forklift extensions in the business are 60" and 72", even if, different lengths are existing.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are presented in two options. The first choice connects the extensions onto the forklift with one pull pin. This is the quick release mechanism. The second and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more secure attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are obtainable either non-tapered or tapered for most container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized when moving cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads which comprise pipes, drums or coils are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are likewise constructed of steel. They are designed to fit blades up to 2" thick and that are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place with a locking bar, they slip off and on effortlessly. Triangular extensions vary in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
It is at all times a good plan to use safety precautions whenever handling whichever kind of industrial equipment and forklift extensions are no different. Inspecting your lift truck extensions prior to utilizing it is also a good routine to get into. Once the extensions have been positioned onto the forklift, the securing mechanism must be double checked as well. Personal injury or destruction to the load can occur if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Following OSHA regulations would also help to be able to guarantee the safety of the operator as well as individuals working close by.
Click to Download the pdf