forklift pockets

[hobbs101]

I'm modifying an existing framework to be lifted by a forklift. The framework weighs 2000kg and is 4m x 4m footprint by 2m height, so it's quite a wide load. Centre of mass is central and is 0.7m height.

We'll be using a large forklift (versalift) with ample capacity and fork length to lift this frame.

My question is, do I need to design in fork lifting pockets? Due to the design, the forks can only be spaced about 1.1m apart (outside edge of fork to outside edge of fork). I imagine it's good practice.

If I do need pockets, can they be 'partial' pockets, i.e. not a rectangular section but a channel section retaining the outer faces of the forks?



Hobbs101
Mechanical Design Engineer

 

[RolMec]

Pockets are useful to direct the forks, to make sure the forks are where they belong and stay there. If looking at your operations, is it absolutely certain where the driver arrives, and also where the load is? Any obsacles on the path, any chances to snagging?
If you have an insight into your applications industry, and seen other frames, did they have these pockets? If yes, and without reason to divert, I'd follow standard.
Regards
R.

Feedback is most welcome, thank you in advance!

 

[robyengIT]

You can have a look to this site :

http://www.probst-handling.co.uk

In any case forks must stay in place and they can't have any possibility of shifting. Furthermore, if the load has the possibility of disengagement from the forks, You must fix (by chain or whatelse you want) the load so that even in case of braking or jerking it doesn't release