Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
Amongst the key basic discussions with lift trucks is taking into account the center of gravity and the stability triangle. Among the hardest things for a lift truck operator to determine is the importance of maintaining their center of gravity in their stability triangle.
The Stability Triangle
In order to describe it clearly, a forklift has a 3-point suspension system. When imaginary lines are drawn between these three points, the stability triangle is formed. The operator has to ensure that the center of gravity, that is created, combined with his load and the machine itself, remains within the stability triangle to be able to guard against the forklift losing balance and tipping over.
Centers of Gravity
How is the center of gravity defined? When it comes to lift truck operation, we need to be concerned not only with the load's center of gravity but as well with the combined center of gravity. This includes the load which is being picked up as well as 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, such as 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 many smaller capacity lift trucks. Then again, if a load is not properly centered, such as with things that are not symmetrical, maybe an engine for example, then a lot of caution and care have to be taken in order to estimate the center of gravity.
In addition, the lift truck has a center of gravity of its own. This shifts each time the lift truck picks up a load. When the load is lifted, the center of gravity shifts forward. Care must 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 raisin over the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. What's more, the load center should be considered. Be aware that whenever raising the load, the load center also shifts forward.
The operator and everybody else who works in the nearby vicinity or close-by, can stay a lot safer if the stability triangle is respected and the center of gravity is maintained. This will guarantee balanced loads, a balanced equipment and safer for everybody.