Self Weight Balance Crane Fork CFB type

• Self Weight Balance Crane Fork requires no manual intervention to level the load.
• Equipped with adjustable tines, adjustable mast height and a self weight balancing system.
• A prerequisite for the functionality is an even load distribution and a useful load of at least 25% of the load bearing capacity.
• Crane forks with self weight balancing, tend to point their tines upwards when being transported, this prevents the load from unintentionally slipping off the tines. The self-weight balancing mechanism returns the lifting point to the unloaded position when the load is set down.
• Safety Factor: 4:1.
• Standard: EN 13155, AS 4991, B 30.20

• Crane forks with manual weight balancer, adjustable height. These crane forks are equipped with adjustable tines and height adjustability. The balancing system engages when the shackle is manually hooked into the appropriate notch.
• Crane forks with automatic weight balancer, adjustable height. These crane forks are equipped with adjustable tines, height adjustability and an automatic balancing system.

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Crane Fork

PRINCIPLES FOR THE SELECTION OF CRANE FORKS
Applications
Crane forks are suitable for lifting palletised loads in many situations where a forklift truck cannot operate or would prove to be inadequate, e.g. where substantial heights of lift are required. They may be used for a specific application, i.e. where identical loads are lifted each time, or perhaps more typically may be used as general purpose lifting accessories to lift a variety of loads which may vary in size, shape and weight.
It is strongly recommended that the exact nature of the application is adequately discussed between the user and the supplier.

Consideration should be given to the following:
(1) Lifting capacity required.
(2) Adjustment required to facilitate varying loads, e.g. suspension eye and fork arms.
(3) Available headroom.
(4) The self-weight of the crane fork.
(5) Degree of portability required.
(6) Method of control and control features required, e.g. grab handles.
(7) Proximity of persons during operations.
(8) Other safety features required, e.g. secondary positive holding device.
(9) The documentation required by legislation. If this is not on record, refer the crane fork to a Competent Person for thorough examination.

SAFE USE OF CRANE FORKS
In addition to any specific instructions relating to safe use issued by the manufacturer, the following points
should be observed:
(1) Do not use to lift people.
(2) Do not lift loads over people who are in the danger zone unless the crane fork has the features needed to address this situation. These features usually include a secondary positive holding device. If the crane fork does not have such features, it will be necessary to exclude persons from the danger zone.
(3) Ensure that the fork arms of the crane fork are correctly adjusted for width.
(4) Use the grab handles to control the crane fork and ensure that it is presented to the load so that the fork arms pass right through the pallet at the appropriate positions.
(5) The condition of the load is of paramount importance. The load itself must be capable of being lifted safely and of withstanding the forces imposed upon it. Loads comprised of loosely stacked materials should not be lifted. Such loads require additional security such as strapping or netting to keep them in place.
(6) For crane forks fitted with manual adjustment, position the lifting eye so that the load will hang correctly when lifted.
(7) Make a trial lift to ensure that the load hangs correctly. When lifted, the fork arms should be tilted backwards by an angle equal to or slightly greater than 5º to prevent the load from sliding off the fork arms.
(8) Adjust as necessary before proceeding. For crane forks with a fixed suspension, this will require repositioning of the crane fork within the load.
(9) Be aware that a crane fork with an automatic mechanism to adjust the position of the lifting eye may not work at very low loads. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for any minimum load information.
(10) Be aware of the danger of unbalanced loads causing the crane fork to tilt sideways. The C of G of the load should be located centrally between the fork arms.
(11) Do not use for operations other than those specified.
(12) Do not attempt to hoist the load until you are satisfied that the crane fork is capable of doing so. Methods of ensuring this will vary from one manufacturer to another and it is essential that the manufacturers’ instructions relevant to the particular type of crane fork are consulted. Do not subject the crane forks to shock loads particularly once the load has been raised.
(13) Be aware of the pendulum effect of a load attached to a crane hook.
(14) Remember to include the self weight of the crane fork when calculating the total load on the lifting machine.
(15) When the load comprises a stack or bundle, e.g. blocks or sheets, care must be taken to ensure that the stack or bundle is held together during the lifting operation. This may necessitate the use of strap banding or netting. Alternatively the crane fork may have a built in securing mechanism or clamp.

A self-weight balance crane fork is a type of lifting device that uses a counterweight system to help balance heavy loads during transport. This type of crane fork typically has a long, slender arm or fork that is mounted on a central pivot point, with a counterweight at the opposite end of the arm to help balance the load.

When using a self-weight balance crane fork, the operator positions the fork on either side of the load, and then lifts the load by pulling or pushing on the handle or lever. As the load is lifted, the counterweight at the opposite end of the arm moves in the opposite direction, helping to balance the load and prevent it from tipping over.

Self-weight balance crane forks are typically used in industrial and construction settings, where heavy loads need to be lifted and moved short distances. They are often used for loading and unloading trucks, moving materials around a worksite, or positioning heavy equipment.

It is important to use caution when using a self-weight balance crane fork, as the device can be unstable if the load is not properly balanced. The operator should also be trained on the proper use of the device, and should always follow proper safety protocols, such as wearing appropriate protective gear and ensuring that the load is properly secured before lifting. Additionally, the device should be inspected regularly to ensure that it is in good working condition and free from defects.