Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
Amongst the key basic discussions about lift trucks is taking into consideration the stability triangle and the center of gravity. Amongst 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
To explain it simply, a forklift has a 3-point suspension system. When imaginary lines are drawn between these three points, the stability triangle is created. 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 in regards to utilizing a lift truck, we have to be concerned not only with the load's center of gravity but as well with the combined center of gravity. This comprises the lift truck as well as the load it is picking up.
The center of gravity of the load is defined as the load center. The load center can 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, would have the load center at 24 inches. This load center is very common for a lot of lift trucks with smaller capacity. Then again, if a load is not correctly centered, such as with things which are not symmetrical, maybe an engine for example, then a lot of care and caution should be taken to be able to gauge the center of gravity.
The lift truck has a center of gravity of its own, which shifts each time the lift truck carries a load. Once the load is lifted, the center of gravity shifts forward. Care has to be taken in order to maintain the center of gravity in the forklift's stability triangle. This happens by following the numbers and not lifting more than the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. Also, the load center should be considered. Be aware that whenever raising the load, the load center moves forward also.
If the stability triangle is respected and the center of gravity is maintained, the operator and all workers and pedestrians close by could stay much safer. This will truly ensure a balanced equipment, balanced loads and safer for everybody.