Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
Amongst the important basic discussions with lift trucks is taking into consideration the stability triangle and the center of gravity. Among the most complicated things for a lift truck operator to judge 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, combined with the machine and his load, remains within the stability triangle to be able 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 just 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 as well as the lift truck itself.
The load center is defined as the load's center of gravity. In a uniform load situation, like 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 load center is very common for numerous smaller capacity lift trucks. Then again, if a load is not centered correctly, such as with items which are not symmetrical, maybe an engine for example, then great care and caution should 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 time the lift truck carries a load. When 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 forklift's stability triangle. This happens by following the numbers and not raisin over the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. Also, the load center has to be considered. Be very careful whenever lifting the load, the load center moves forward as well.
The operator and everyone else who works in the nearby vicinity or close-by, could stay much safer if the stability triangle is respected and the center of gravity is maintained. This would ensure a balanced equipment, balanced loads and safer for everybody.