Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
The stability triangle and the center of gravity is among the key basic operating considerations. Amongst the hardest things for a lift truck operator to judge is the significance of maintaining their center of gravity in their stability triangle.
The Stability Triangle
To explain it simply, a forklift has a 3-point suspension system. When imaginary lines are drawn between these three points, the stability triangle is formed. The operator must make sure that the center of gravity, that is created, together with the equipment and his load, remains in the stability triangle to be able to prevent the forklift from losing balance and tipping over.
Centers of Gravity
How do you define the center of gravity? When in regards to using a lift truck, we have to be concerned not only with the load's center of gravity but as well with the combined center of gravity. This comprises the load that is being picked up as well as the lift truck itself.
The load center is defined as the center of gravity of the load. In a uniform load situation, such as a bale for example, the load center could be more easily detected. Like for example, a uniform load on a 48 inch long pallet, will have the load center at 24 inches. This load center is really common for lots of smaller capacity lift trucks. However, if a load is not properly centered, such as with items that are not symmetrical, perhaps an engine for example, then great care and caution should be taken to be able 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 moves forward. Care has to be taken to be able to maintain the center of gravity within the stability triangle of the forklift. This occurs by following the numbers and not raisin over the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. As well, the load center needs to be taken into consideration. Be really careful whenever lifting the load, the load center moves forward as well.
If the stability triangle is respected and the center of gravity is maintained, the operator and all workers and pedestrians nearby could stay much safer. This would really ensure balanced loads, a balanced machinery and safer for everyone.