Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
The stability triangle and the center of gravity is one of the important basic operating factors. One of the hardest things for a lift truck operator to judge is the significance of maintaining their center of gravity in their stability triangle.
The Stability Triangle
To explain it clearly, a forklift has a 3-point suspension system. When imaginary lines are drawn between these three points, the stability triangle is formed. The operator has to make sure that the center of gravity, which is made, together with the equipment and his load, remains within 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 need to 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, like a bale for instance, the load center can be more easily detected. Like for example, a uniform load on a 48 inch long pallet, will have the load center at 24 inches. This is a common load center 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 to be able to estimate the center of gravity.
The lift truck has its own center of gravity, that 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 in order to maintain the center of gravity in the forklift's stability triangle. This happens by following the numbers and not carrying over the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. As well, the load center must be taken into account. Be aware that whenever raising the load, the load center also shifts forward.
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 would ensure a balanced machine, balanced loads and safer for everybody.