Forklift Fork Extension - Forklift extensions are a great option when you find you need to reach further than your standard forklift allows. Furthermore, 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 Efficiency
Extensions would provide extra capacity and support to the forklift whenever moving or lifting pallets, containers, or very heavy cargo. In addition, the extensions will add more length to the existing forks enabling the individual operating it to reach farther than before. Making use of lift truck extensions really saves a business the requirement to purchase individual machinery to be able to finish the task. This could save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity options utilizing the equipment you already have.
Numerous extensions just slip over the typical lift truck blades. Extensions could be obtained so as to fit forks which have widths of 4", 5" and 6". It is important to measure your extensions in order to obtain a proper fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width which is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is paramount to ensuring the right fit. When purchasing your extension size, make certain it is equivalent to your fork's width. For example, if you have blades which are 6 inches wide, you would utilize an extension which is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
OSHA standards for safety have a guideline length for fork extensions. According to this particular regulation, fork extensions cannot be longer than 50% of the actual blade length. Abiding by these rules would help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal lift truck extensions to prevent corrosion. The two most common sizes for lift truck extensions in the industry are 60" and 72", even though, other lengths are obtainable.
Securing Mechanism
There are two separate securing mechanisms available. The first alternative connects the extensions onto the lift truck with a single pull pin. The second and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more stable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are obtainable in both tapered or non-tapered for the majority of pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are used whenever transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads consist of coils drums or pipes. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are typically made of steel and can be made to fit forks up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Secured in place using a locking bar, they slip off and on effortlessly. Triangular extensions range in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
Safety measures should be utilized whenever utilizing whatever industrial tool or machine and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your lift truck extensions prior to utilizing them is a very good routine to get into. After placing an extension onto the lift truck, the attaching device should be inspected. Physical injury or destruction to the load could take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Following OSHA regulations would also help in order to ensure the safety of the operator as well as those working nearby.
Click to Download the pdf