Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
Among the key basic discussions with lift trucks is taking into consideration the stability triangle and the center of gravity. 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
A forklift has a 3-point suspension system. The stability triangle is created when imaginary lines are drawn between these three points. The operator needs to ensure that the center of gravity, which is created, along with the machinery and his load, remains within the stability triangle to be able to prevent the forklift from losing balance and tipping over.
Centers of Gravity
How is the center of gravity defined? When in regards to utilizing a lift truck, we should 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. 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 numerous smaller capacity lift trucks. However, if a load is not centered properly, like with non-symmetrical items, maybe an engine for instance, then a lot of caution and care must be taken in order to estimate 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. Once the load is raised, the center of gravity moves forward. Care has to be taken to be able to maintain the center of gravity within the forklift's stability triangle. This occurs by following the numbers and not lifting more than the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. As well, the load center must be considered. Be very careful whenever raising the load, the load center shifts forward as well.
If the stability triangle is respected and the center of gravity is maintained, the operator and all workers and pedestrians close by could stay a lot safer. This will truly guarantee a balanced machinery, balanced loads and safer for everyone.