Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
The center of gravity and the stability triangle is among the key basic operating considerations. Among the most complicated things for an operator of a lift truck to judge is the significance of maintaining their center of gravity in their stability triangle.
The Stability Triangle
A forklift has a 3-point suspension system. The stability triangle is formed when imaginary lines are drawn between these three points. The operator has to ensure that the center of gravity, which is made, together with his load and the machinery 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 using a lift truck, we should 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 as well as 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 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 is a common load center for numerous lift trucks with smaller capacity. Then again, if a load is not centered properly, such as with things that are not symmetrical, perhaps an engine for example, then a lot of caution and care must be taken in order to gauge the center of gravity.
The lift truck has a center of gravity of its own, that shifts each and every time the lift truck carries a load. When the load is raised, the center of gravity shifts forward. Care needs to be taken to be able to maintain the center of gravity within the forklift's stability triangle. This happens 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 lifting the load, the load center shifts forward as well.
The operator and everyone else who works close-by or in the nearby vicinity, could stay a lot safer if the center of gravity is maintained and the stability triangle is respected. This would ensure a balanced equipment, balanced loads and safer for everyone.