When empty, a 200-litre steel drum weighs about 20 kilograms. However, when filled, that weight can exceed 200 kilograms – too heavy for workers to move with a hand truck or other manual tools.
Fortunately, a forklift drum attachment can easily lift a full container and move it quickly to where it belongs. Furthermore, various forklift drum attachments can be used for multiple tasks.
Lifting made easy
A standard drum handler is clamped to the top of the drum. The clamp is attached to a sheath that fits over the forklift’s prongs and supports the drum’s base while providing enough height to lift the heavy drum. Forklift drum handlers are typically available in single-drum or double-drum configurations.
The second type of forklift drum handler uses a side clamp to grasp the drum in the same way you would hold a beer can. Like the standard drum handler, this forklift attachment has a sheath that fits over the forklift tines. When you move the forklift forward, the clamp is pushed against the drum, and the handles close around and grip the drum. It then locks under the rolling hoop when you raise it. To release a clamp forklift drum handler, simply lower the drum to the ground and reverse the forklift. Drum clamp forklift attachments are also available in single and double drum configurations.
Versatility
A forklift drum handler can do much more than just lift drums. Some models are designed to rotate the drum vertically, partially or completely. This can be used to tip a drum and empty its contents. The operator can usually rotate the drum 360 degrees along the vertical axis on most models.
Instead of using onboard equipment, another type of forklift drum handler with a rotator appliance has a hand chain that the operator can manually rotate when the drum is lifted higher than the operator’s chest height.
Plastic drum lifting
Plastic barrels necessitate the use of specialised forklift drum handlers. This includes optional cradles fitted to the existing forklift drum handler to avoid damaging the less durable plastic barrel. Furthermore, many cradles have an optional chain-and-belly strap to secure the drum or barrel.
Forklift drum attachments can make the difficult task of moving heavy drums more manageable and efficient while lowering the risk of worker injury or accident.
Contact Micron MHE for details
Contact Micron MHE today if you’re still not sure about the proper attachment for your application. Our material handling specialists can help you choose the most suitable solution. Alternatively, please visit our website for more information about our offers.