Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
The center of gravity and the stability triangle is amongst the important basic operating factors. 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
In order 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 formed. The operator should make certain that the center of gravity, which is created, along with the machine and his load, remains in 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 in regards to lift truck operation, we should 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 center of gravity of the load. In a uniform load situation, like a bale for instance, the load center could be more easily detected. A uniform load on a 48 inch long pallet, for example, will have the load center at 24 inches. This load center is really common for lots of lift trucks with smaller capacity. Then again, if a load is not correctly centered, like with items that are not symmetrical, perhaps an engine for example, then a lot of caution and care should be taken in order to gauge the center of gravity.
The lift truck has a center of gravity of its own, which shifts every time the lift truck carries a load. When the load is raised, the center of gravity shifts 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 occurs by following the numbers and not lifting over the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. Also, the load center should be considered. Be very careful whenever raising the load, the load center shifts forward also.
If the center of gravity is maintained and the stability triangle is respected, the operator and all employees and pedestrians nearby can stay much safer. This will really guarantee a balanced equipment, balanced loads and safer for everyone.