Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
Among the key basic discussions about lift trucks is taking into account the stability triangle and the center of gravity. Amongst the most complicated things for an operator of a lift truck to judge 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 must make certain that the center of gravity, that is made, along with the machinery and his load, remains within 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 must be concerned not just 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 as well as 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 example, 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 lift trucks with smaller capacity. Then again, if a load is not centered correctly, such as with things that are not symmetrical, perhaps an engine for example, then a lot of caution and care must be taken to be able to gauge the center of gravity.
Additionally, the lift truck has it's own center of gravity. This shifts each time the lift truck carries a load. Once the load is raised, the center of gravity shifts forward. A lot of care must be taken to be able to maintain the center of gravity within the forklift's stability triangle. This happens by following the numbers and not carrying over the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. What's more, the load center must be considered. Be aware that whenever lifting the load, the load center shifts forward also.
If the stability triangle is respected and the center of gravity is maintained, the operator and all employees and pedestrians nearby could stay a lot safer. This would really ensure balanced loads, a balanced machinery and safer for everyone.