Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
Amongst the key basic discussions with lift trucks is taking into consideration the stability triangle and the center of gravity. Among the hardest 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 created, combined with the machine and his load, remains in the stability triangle in order to prevent the forklift from losing balance and tipping over.
Centers of Gravity
How do you define the center of gravity? When it comes to lift truck operation, 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 and the lift truck itself.
The center of gravity of the load is defined as the load center. The load center can be more easily detected in a uniform load situation, such as a bale. Like for instance, a uniform load on a 48 inch long pallet, will have the load center at 24 inches. This load center is really common for lots of smaller capacity lift trucks. However, if a load is not centered properly, such as with things that are not symmetrical, perhaps an engine for example, then great caution and care should be taken in order to estimate the center of gravity.
Additionally, the lift truck has a center of gravity of its own. This shifts every time the lift truck carries a load. Once the load is lifted, the center of gravity shifts forward. Care has to be taken in order to maintain the center of gravity in the stability triangle of the forklift. 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 too.
The operator and everyone else who works in the nearby vicinity or close-by, could stay a lot safer if the stability triangle is respected and the center of gravity is maintained. This will truly guarantee a balanced equipment, balanced loads and safer for everybody.