Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
Amongst the key basic discussions about lift trucks is taking into account the center of gravity and the stability triangle. One of the most difficult things for a lift truck operator to judge is the importance of maintaining their center of gravity in their stability triangle.
The Stability Triangle
To describe 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 make certain that the center of gravity, which is created, along with his load and the machine itself, 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 in regards to lift truck operation, we need 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 lift truck and the load it is picking up.
The load's center of gravity is defined as the load center. The load center can 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 load center is very common for numerous lift trucks with smaller capacity. However, if a load is not centered properly, like with things that are not symmetrical, perhaps an engine for example, then great care and caution should be taken in order to gauge the center of gravity.
The lift truck has a center of gravity of its own, which shifts each and every time the lift truck carries a load. When the load is lifted, the center of gravity moves forward. A lot of care must be taken to be able to maintain the center of gravity in the stability triangle of the forklift. This happens by following the numbers and not raisin over the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. As well, the load center should be taken into consideration. Be aware that whenever raising the load, the load center shifts forward too.
The operator and everyone else who works close-by or in the nearby vicinity, could stay much safer if the stability triangle is respected and the center of gravity is maintained. This would really ensure balanced loads, a balanced machinery and safer for everybody.