Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
The center of gravity and the stability triangle is among the key basic operating considerations. Amongst the hardest things for a lift truck operator to judge is the importance 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 sure that the center of gravity, that is made, together with his load and the equipment 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 it comes to lift truck operation, we should be concerned not only 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 center of gravity of the load is defined as the load center. The load center could be more easily detected in a uniform load situation, such as a bale. A uniform load on a 48 inch long pallet, for instance, would have the load center at 24 inches. This load center is really common for many smaller capacity lift trucks. However, if a load is not centered properly, such as with things which are not symmetrical, perhaps an engine for example, then a lot of caution and care have to be taken to be able to gauge the center of gravity.
Moreover, the lift truck has a center of gravity of its own. This shifts each time the lift truck carries a load. Once the load is raised, the center of gravity shifts forward. A lot of care needs to be taken to be able to maintain the center of gravity in the forklift's stability triangle. This occurs by following the numbers and not carrying over the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. As well, the load center must be considered. Be aware that whenever lifting the load, the load center moves forward also.
If the stability triangle is respected and the center of gravity is maintained, the operator and all workers and pedestrians close by can stay much safer. This would really ensure balanced loads, a balanced machine and safer for everybody.