Fork Extension for Forklifts - Forklift extensions are a excellent alternative whenever there is a need to reach further than your existing blades will allow. In certain circumstances when you have a load which exceeds more than can be safely picked up on your forklift, an extension could help you execute your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Efficiency
Extensions will offer extra capacity and support to the forklift whenever lifting or moving containers, pallets, or very heavy cargo. Moreover, the extensions would add more length to the current forks enabling the one operating it to reach further than before. Making use of lift truck extensions saves a business the requirement to purchase separate machinery so as to do the job. This can save probably thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency alternatives making use of the equipment you already have.
Several of the fork extensions will just slip overtop of the forklift forks. Extensions could be obtained so as to fit blades with widths from four to six inches. It is very vital that you measure the extensions to be sure of 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 making sure the correct fit. When acquiring your extension size, be sure it is equal to your fork's width. For example, if you have forks that are six inches wide, you would make use of an extension that is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA which regulate the length of extension which you can utilize. According to the guidelines, extensions can not be longer than fifty percent of the actual fork length. Abiding by those rules will help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel forklift extensions so as to prevent rust. The two most common dimensions for lift truck extensions in the industry are 60" and 72", even if, other lengths are obtainable.
Securing Mechanism
There are two separate securing mechanisms available. The first alternative secures the extensions onto the forklift with a single pull pin. 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 obtainable either non-tapered or tapered for the majority of pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are utilized when transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads comprise pipes, coils or drums. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are usually constructed of steel and could be designed to fit forks up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Fixed in place with a locking bar, they slide off and on easily. Triangular extensions vary in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
Safety precautions must be utilized whenever utilizing whichever industrial device or machine and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your forklift extensions before utilizing them is a really good routine to get into. Right after placing an extension onto the lift truck, the attaching device must be inspected. Personal injury or destruction to the load can take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Following OSHA regulations will likewise help to guarantee the safety of the one operating it and those working close by.
Click to Download the pdf