Fork Extension for Forklifts - Forklift extensions are a terrific alternative whenever there is a need to reach further than your existing forks would allow. In some circumstances when you have a load that exceeds more than can be safely lifted on your forklift, an extension could help you complete your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Productivity
Extensions will provide added support and capacity to the forklift whenever lifting or moving pallets, containers, or very heavy cargo. Moreover, the extensions will add more length to the current forks enabling the individual operating it to reach farther than before. Utilizing forklift extensions saves a business the requirement to obtain individual equipment to be able to finish the task. This can save possibly thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency options using the machinery you already have.
Lots of extensions just slip over the typical forklift blades. Extensions can be bought in order to fit blades which have widths of 4", 5" and 6". It is essential to measure your extensions in order to obtain a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width which is half an inch wider than the size stated is paramount to making sure the accurate fit. Whenever obtaining your extension size, make certain it is equivalent to your fork's width. For instance, if you have forks which are six inches wide, you would make use of an extension that is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
OSHA standards for safety have a regulation length for fork extensions. Based on this particular guideline, fork extensions cannot be longer than 50% of the original fork length. Abiding by those rules would help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal lift truck extensions in order to avoid rust. The two most common dimensions for forklift extensions in the business are 60" and 72", although, different lengths are existing.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are presented in two choices. The first choice secures the extensions onto the lift truck with one pull pin. This is the rapid release method. The second and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more secure attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are available either tapered or non-tapered for the majority of container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used when transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads which have pipes, drums or coils are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are even made of steel. They are built to fit forks up to 2" thick and which are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place with a locking bar, they slide on and off with no trouble. Triangular extensions differ in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
It is always a great idea to use safety measures whenever dealing with any kind of industrial equipment and forklift extensions are no different. Inspecting your forklift extensions before utilizing it is likewise a great practice to get into. After the extensions have been positioned onto the forklift, the attaching mechanism must be inspected too. Personal injury or damage to the load can take place if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations will likewise help so as to guarantee the safety of the operator as well as those working close by.
Click to Download the pdf