Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
One of the important basic discussions with lift trucks is taking into consideration the stability triangle and the center of gravity. Among the hardest things for a lift truck operator to determine is the importance of maintaining their center of gravity within their stability triangle.
The Stability Triangle
A forklift has a 3-point suspension system. The stability triangle is formed when imaginary lines are drawn between these three points. The operator should make certain that the center of gravity, that is created, along with his load and the equipment itself, remains in the stability triangle in order to prevent the forklift from losing balance and tipping over.
Centers of Gravity
How is the center of gravity defined? When it comes to using a lift truck, we must be concerned not only with the load's center of gravity but as well with the combined center of gravity. This comprises the load which is being picked up and the lift truck itself.
The load center is defined as the center of gravity of the load. In a uniform load situation, like a bale for example, the load center can be more easily detected. A uniform load on a 48 inch long pallet, for instance, would have the load center at 24 inches. This load center is very common for many lift trucks with smaller capacity. Then again, if a load is not correctly centered, like with things that are not symmetrical, maybe an engine for instance, then great caution and care should be taken in order to gauge the center of gravity.
The lift truck has its own center of gravity, that shifts each and every time the lift truck carries a load. Once the load is raised, the center of gravity shifts forward. A lot of care should be taken to be able to maintain the center of gravity in the stability triangle of the forklift. This occurs by following the numbers and not lifting over the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. What's more, the load center has to be taken into consideration. Be aware that whenever lifting the load, the load center moves forward also.
If the stability triangle is respected and the center of gravity is maintained, the operator and all workers and pedestrians nearby can stay a lot safer. This will guarantee a balanced machine, balanced loads and safer for everybody.