Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
The center of gravity and the stability triangle is amongst the important basic operating considerations. Amongst the most difficult things for a lift truck operator to determine 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 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 do you define the center of gravity? 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 comprises the load that is being picked up as well as the lift truck itself.
The center of gravity of the load is defined as the load center. The load center can be more easily detected in a uniform load situation, like for instance a bale. Like for example, a uniform load on a 48 inch long pallet, would have the load center at 24 inches. This is a common load center for numerous lift trucks with smaller capacity. However, if a load is not properly centered, such as with things that are not symmetrical, maybe an engine for example, then a lot of care and caution need to be taken to be able to gauge the center of gravity.
In addition, 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 moves forward. Care has to be taken in order to maintain the center of gravity within the stability triangle of the forklift. This occurs by following the numbers and not carrying more than the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. Also, the load center needs to be taken into consideration. Be very careful whenever raising the load, the load center moves forward also.
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 will truly ensure balanced loads, a balanced machinery and safer for everybody.