Fork Extension for Forklift - Lift Truck extensions are a excellent option whenever there is a need to reach further than your current blades will allow. In several cases when you have a load which exceeds more than could be safely raised on your forklift, an extension can help you complete your task safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Output
Lift truck extensions offer the extra support and capacity required when picking up containers, long pallets or really heavy loads. Furthermore, the extensions add more length to the blades which enables the one operating it to reach greater distances. Utilizing lift truck extensions truly saves a business the need to purchase separate machinery in order to complete the job. This can save probably thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity alternatives utilizing the machine you already have.
A lot of the fork extensions will simply slip overtop of the forklift forks. Extensions can be bought so as to fit forks with widths from 4-6 inches. It is really important that you measure the extensions to be sure of a proper fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width that is half an inch wider than the size stated is paramount to making sure the accurate fit. When obtaining your extension size, be certain it is equivalent to your blade's width. For instance, if you have blades which are six inches wide, you would utilize an extension which is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA that standardize the length of extension that you could use. According to the regulation, extensions cannot be longer than 50 percent of the original blade length. Following those rules would help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel lift truck extensions to avoid rust. The two most common dimensions for forklift extensions in the business are 60" and 72", though, different lengths are obtainable.
Securing Mechanism
There are two separate securing mechanisms available. The first alternative connects the extensions onto the lift truck with one pull pin. The second and safer option is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more stable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are offered either non-tapered or tapered for nearly all pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are utilized when transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads that comprise pipes, drums or coils are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are even made of steel. They are designed to fit blades up to 2" thick and which are 4" to 5" in width. Secured in place making use of a locking bar, they slip on and off without difficulty. Triangular extensions vary in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
It is always a good plan to use safety measures when dealing with any kind of industrial machinery and forklift extensions are no different. Inspecting your lift truck extensions prior to use is even a great practice to get into. After the extensions have been positioned onto the lift truck, the attaching mechanism must be inspected as well. Personal injury or destruction to the load can occur if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations will also help to ensure the safety of the operator as well as individuals working in close proximity.
Click to Download the pdf