Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
One of the important basic discussions about lift trucks is taking into consideration the center of gravity and the stability triangle. Amongst the most difficult things for a lift truck operator to determine is the significance 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 should ensure that the center of gravity, that is made, together 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 have to be concerned not only with the center of gravity of the load being lifted 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's center of gravity is defined as the load center. The load center could be more easily detected in a uniform load situation, like for instance a bale. A uniform load on a 48 inch long pallet, for instance, 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 properly centered, like with non-symmetrical items, maybe an engine for instance, then a lot of caution and care must be taken to be able to gauge the center of gravity.
Moreover, the lift truck has a center of gravity of its own. This shifts every time the lift truck picks up a load. Once the load is raised, the center of gravity shifts forward. A lot of care should be taken in order to maintain the center of gravity within the forklift's stability triangle. 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 aware that whenever lifting the load, the load center also shifts 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 guarantee a balanced equipment, balanced loads and safer for everybody.