Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
Among the important basic discussions about lift trucks is taking into consideration the stability triangle and the center of gravity. Among the most difficult 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 created, combined with the machine and his load, 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 should be concerned not just 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 and the lift truck itself.
The load center is defined as the center of gravity of the load. In a uniform load situation, like a bale for example, the load center could be more easily detected. A uniform load on a 48 inch long pallet, for instance, would have the load center at 24 inches. This is a common load center for lots of smaller capacity lift trucks. Then again, if a load is not correctly centered, like with non-symmetrical things, perhaps an engine for instance, then a lot of care and caution should be taken in order to estimate 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. When the load is lifted, the center of gravity shifts forward. A lot of care has to be taken in order to maintain the center of gravity in the stability triangle of the forklift. This occurs by following the numbers and not lifting more than the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. What's more, the load center must be taken into consideration. Be aware that whenever raising the load, the load center also moves forward.
The operator and everyone else who works in the nearby vicinity or close-by, could stay much safer if the center of gravity is maintained and the stability triangle is respected. This will ensure a balanced machinery, balanced loads and safer for everyone.