Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
Amongst the key basic discussions with 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 determine 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 created 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 machinery itself, remains in the stability triangle to be able to prevent the forklift from losing balance and tipping over.
Centers of Gravity
How is the center of gravity defined? When in regards to using a lift truck, 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 as well as the lift truck itself.
The load center is defined as the center of gravity of the load. In a uniform load situation, such as a bale for example, 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 numerous lift trucks with smaller capacity. However, if a load is not correctly centered, such as with non-symmetrical things, perhaps an engine for instance, then a lot of caution and care should be taken to be able to estimate the center of gravity.
The lift truck has its own center of gravity, which 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 must 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 carrying over the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. As well, the load center should be taken into consideration. Be aware that whenever lifting the load, the load center also shifts forward.
If the center of gravity is maintained and the stability triangle is respected, the operator and all workers and pedestrians close by could stay a lot safer. This would really ensure balanced loads, a balanced machine and safer for everybody.