Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
Amongst the important basic discussions about lift trucks is taking into account the stability triangle and the center of gravity. One of the most complicated things for a lift truck operator to judge is the significance 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 drawing imaginary lines between these three points, the stability triangle is formed. The operator must ensure that the center of gravity, which is created, along with his load and the machinery itself, remains within the stability triangle in order 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 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 which is being picked up and 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 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 a lot of smaller capacity lift trucks. However, if a load is not centered correctly, such as with non-symmetrical items, maybe an engine for example, then a lot of caution and care have to be taken in order to estimate the center of gravity.
Additionally, the lift truck has it's own center of gravity. This shifts every time the lift truck carries a load. When the load is lifted, the center of gravity moves forward. Care must be taken to be able to maintain the center of gravity within the forklift's stability triangle. This occurs by following the numbers and not raisin more than the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. Also, the load center must be considered. Be very careful whenever raising the load, the load center shifts forward as well.
If the stability triangle is respected and the center of gravity is maintained, the operator and all workers and pedestrians nearby could stay a lot safer. This will guarantee a balanced machinery, balanced loads and safer for everyone.