Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
The center of gravity and the stability triangle is among the important basic operating considerations. Among the most complicated things for an operator of a lift truck to judge is the importance of maintaining their center of gravity within their stability triangle.
The Stability Triangle
To explain it clearly, a forklift has a 3-point suspension system. When imaginary lines are drawn between these three points, the stability triangle is formed. The operator should make sure that the center of gravity, that is made, combined with his load and the machine itself, remains in the stability triangle in order to prevent the forklift from losing balance and tipping over.
Centers of Gravity
How is the center of gravity defined? When in regards to lift truck operation, we must be concerned not just with the load's center of gravity but as well with the combined center of gravity. This comprises the load which 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 example, a uniform load on a 48 inch long pallet, would have the load center at 24 inches. This load center is really common for many lift trucks with smaller capacity. Then again, if a load is not properly centered, such as with non-symmetrical things, maybe an engine for instance, then a lot of caution and care need to be taken to be able to gauge the center of gravity.
Moreover, the lift truck has it's own center of gravity. This shifts each and every time the lift truck carries a load. Once the load is raised, the center of gravity moves forward. Care must be taken in order to maintain the center of gravity in the stability triangle of the forklift. This occurs by following the numbers and not raisin more than the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. What's more, the load center should be considered. Be very careful whenever raising the load, the load center also moves forward.
If the stability triangle is respected and the center of gravity is maintained, the operator and all employees and pedestrians nearby could stay a lot safer. This will ensure balanced loads, a balanced machinery and safer for everyone.