Forklift clamps are used to grip objects instead of lifting them with traditional forks. There are different types of clamps, including barrel clamps and vertical arm clamps, each with a specific design and function. Some clamps can also rotate for added versatility. Regular fork tines can also be used as a gripper, but this method may not be the safest.
Forklift clamps are devices used to grip objects rather than lift them from below, as traditional forks do on a forklift. Barrel clamps, for example, are curved blades that open and close like a jaw; they are often used to grip and move barrels, which would otherwise be unstable when lifted with forks. There are other types of forklift clamps as well, each with a specific design and function applicable to certain types of moving goods. Some clamps also take the form of traditional forks, except the fork prongs move in and out to clamp items.
One of the more common styles of forklift clamps features two vertical arms; they are wide and flat, and are made of a durable material such as steel. They are substantially large slabs parallel to each other; they can move inward towards each other to clamp a large, bulky object, and the plates are held in place by a hydraulic system. Once the plates are in place, the object can be lifted by the forklift and moved safely. One of the problems with forklift grabs like these is the likelihood of crushing; the operator will need to ensure that the clamps have secured the load, but will also need to ensure that they are not gripping the object too tightly.
Other types of forklift grabs feature curved arms that are useful for gripping round objects such as barrels or pipes. These clamps are commonly used in industrial settings, as they can easily grip metal containers, pipes or other materials. The claw-like clamp opens and closes like a series of jaws, and the clamps are usually able to rotate to make them even more versatile.
Sometimes the tines of a regular fork on a forklift can be used as a gripper. The specially designed fork blades are able to move in and out using a hydraulic system; this is most often used to pick up pallets of various sizes, although as the fork tines get close to each other, an object can be clamped. This isn’t necessarily the safest method, although it can be effective, especially if the forklift blades can also rotate, adding extra stability to the object being lifted. Some warehouses and factories do not allow this method to be used for safety reasons.
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