Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
One of the key basic discussions with lift trucks is taking into consideration the center of gravity and the stability triangle. Amongst the hardest things for a lift truck operator to determine 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 created when imaginary lines are drawn between these three points. The operator must make certain that the center of gravity, which is created, combined with the machinery and his load, remains in 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 it comes to utilizing a lift truck, we need to be concerned not just with the load's center of gravity but as well with the combined center of gravity. This comprises the load that 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 instance, the load center can be more easily detected. Like for instance, a uniform load on a 48 inch long pallet, will have the load center at 24 inches. This load center is very common for many lift trucks with smaller capacity. Then again, if a load is not correctly centered, like with things which are not symmetrical, maybe an engine for instance, then a lot of caution and care must be taken to be able 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 lifted, the center of gravity moves forward. A lot of care has to be taken in order to maintain the center of gravity in 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. Also, the load center needs to be considered. Be aware that whenever raising the load, the load center also moves forward.
The operator and everyone else who works in the nearby vicinity or close-by, can stay much safer if the stability triangle is respected and the center of gravity is maintained. This will guarantee a balanced equipment, balanced loads and safer for everyone.