Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
One of the key basic discussions with lift trucks is taking into consideration the stability triangle and the center of gravity. Among the hardest things for an operator of a lift truck to determine is the significance 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 created when imaginary lines are drawn between these three points. The operator should ensure that the center of gravity, that is made, combined with his load and the machine 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 in regards to lift truck operation, we need to be concerned not just with the center of gravity of the load being lifted but as well with the combined center of gravity. This comprises the load that is being picked up and the lift truck itself.
The load's center of gravity is defined as the load center. The load center can be more easily detected in a uniform load situation, like for example a bale. Like for instance, a uniform load on a 48 inch long pallet, would have the load center at 24 inches. This load center is really common for many smaller capacity lift trucks. However, if a load is not centered properly, like with non-symmetrical things, maybe an engine for instance, then a lot of care and caution should be taken in order to gauge the center of gravity.
Moreover, the lift truck has a center of gravity of its own. This shifts each and every time the lift truck carries a load. Once 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 within the stability triangle of the forklift. This happens by following the numbers and not carrying over the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. As well, the load center should be considered. Be aware that whenever raising the load, the load center shifts forward as well.
If the stability triangle is respected and the center of gravity is maintained, the operator and all employees and pedestrians close by can stay a lot safer. This would guarantee balanced loads, a balanced machine and safer for everyone.