Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
Amongst the key basic discussions about lift trucks is taking into consideration the stability triangle and the center of gravity. 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
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 certain that the center of gravity, that is made, combined with the machinery 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 is the center of gravity defined? When it comes to lift truck operation, we must be concerned not only with the load's center of gravity but as well with the combined center of gravity. This includes the lift truck as well as the load it is picking up.
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, will have the load center at 24 inches. This is a common load center for lots of lift trucks with smaller capacity. However, if a load is not centered correctly, such as with non-symmetrical things, maybe an engine for example, then great caution and care should be taken to be able to estimate the center of gravity.
Moreover, the lift truck has a center of gravity of its own. This shifts every time the lift truck carries a load. When the load is raised, the center of gravity shifts forward. 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 raisin more than 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 also moves forward.
If the center of gravity is maintained and the stability triangle is respected, the operator and all employees and pedestrians nearby could stay a lot safer. This will truly guarantee balanced loads, a balanced equipment and safer for everyone.