Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
One of the important basic discussions with 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 determine is the importance of maintaining their center of gravity in their stability triangle.
The Stability Triangle
In order to explain it clearly, a forklift has a 3-point suspension system. When drawing imaginary lines between these three points, the stability triangle is formed. The operator should ensure that the center of gravity, which is made, together with the machine and his load, remains in the stability triangle to be able to guard against the forklift losing balance and tipping over.
Centers of Gravity
How do you define the center of gravity? When in regards to using a lift truck, we have to 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 load's center of gravity. In a uniform load situation, such as a bale for instance, the load center could be more easily detected. Like for instance, a uniform load on a 48 inch long pallet, will have the load center at 24 inches. This is a common load center for many lift trucks with smaller capacity. However, if a load is not centered correctly, like with items which are not symmetrical, perhaps an engine for example, then great caution and care must be taken in order to estimate the center of gravity.
Additionally, the lift truck has a center of gravity of its own. This shifts each time the lift truck picks up a load. Once the load is raised, the center of gravity shifts forward. A lot of care has to be taken in order 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. Also, the load center should be taken into account. Be really careful whenever lifting the load, the load center moves forward also.
If the center of gravity is maintained and the stability triangle is respected, the operator and all workers and pedestrians nearby can stay a lot safer. This would guarantee a balanced machine, balanced loads and safer for everyone.