Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
The center of gravity and the stability triangle is amongst the key basic operating considerations. Among the most complicated things for a lift truck operator to judge is the significance of maintaining their center of gravity within their stability triangle.
The Stability Triangle
In order to describe 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 should ensure that the center of gravity, which is created, combined with his load and the machinery itself, remains in the stability triangle in order to guard against the forklift losing balance and tipping over.
Centers of Gravity
How do you define the center of gravity? When in regards to lift truck operation, we must be concerned not just with the center of gravity of the load being lifted but as well with the combined center of gravity. This comprises the load that is being picked up and the lift truck itself.
The load center is defined as the load's center of gravity. In a uniform load situation, such as a bale for example, the load center can be more easily detected. 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 lots of lift trucks with smaller capacity. Then again, if a load is not properly centered, such as with non-symmetrical items, maybe an engine for example, then a lot of care and caution need to be taken to be able to gauge the center of gravity.
Additionally, the lift truck has it's own center of gravity. This shifts every time the lift truck picks up a load. Once the load is lifted, the center of gravity shifts forward. A lot of care needs to be taken to be able to maintain the center of gravity in the stability triangle of the forklift. This occurs by following the numbers and not raisin over the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. Also, the load center must be considered. Be aware that whenever raising the load, the load center also moves forward.
If the center of gravity is maintained and the stability triangle is respected, the operator and all workers and pedestrians nearby can stay a lot safer. This will ensure a balanced equipment, balanced loads and safer for everyone.