Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
The stability triangle and the center of gravity is among the key basic operating considerations. One of 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
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 sure that the center of gravity, that is created, combined with his load and the equipment itself, remains within the stability triangle in order to guard against the forklift losing balance and tipping over.
Centers of Gravity
How do you define the center of gravity? When in regards to lift truck operation, we must be concerned not only with the center of gravity of the load being lifted 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 load's center of gravity. In a uniform load situation, such as a bale for instance, the load center could be more easily detected. Like for instance, a uniform load on a 48 inch long pallet, would have the load center at 24 inches. This load center is very common for numerous lift trucks with smaller capacity. However, if a load is not correctly centered, such as with non-symmetrical things, perhaps an engine for instance, then great care and caution must be taken in order to gauge the center of gravity.
Furthermore, the lift truck has a center of gravity of its own. This shifts each time the lift truck carries a load. When the load is lifted, 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 raisin more than the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. As well, the load center has to be taken into consideration. Be aware that whenever raising the load, the load center also shifts forward.
If the center of gravity is maintained and the stability triangle is respected, the operator and all workers and pedestrians nearby could stay much safer. This would ensure a balanced machinery, balanced loads and safer for everyone.