Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
The center of gravity and the stability triangle is among the key basic operating considerations. Amongst the most difficult things for an operator of a lift truck to judge is the importance 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 formed when imaginary lines are drawn between these three points. The operator must make certain that the center of gravity, that is created, combined with the machine and his load, remains within the stability triangle in order to guard against the forklift losing balance and tipping over.
Centers of Gravity
How do you define the center of gravity? When in regards to using 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 and the lift truck itself.
The load's center of gravity is defined as the load center. The load center can be more easily detected in a uniform load situation, like for example a bale. A uniform load on a 48 inch long pallet, for example, would have the load center at 24 inches. This is a common load center for numerous lift trucks with smaller capacity. However, if a load is not properly centered, like with items that are not symmetrical, perhaps an engine for instance, then a lot of care and caution have to be taken in order to gauge the center of gravity.
In addition, the lift truck has it's own center of gravity. This shifts each and every time the lift truck picks up a load. When the load is lifted, the center of gravity shifts forward. A lot of care needs to be taken in order to maintain the center of gravity within the forklift's stability triangle. This happens by following the numbers and not carrying over the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. Also, the load center should be taken into account. Be aware that whenever raising the load, the load center moves forward too.
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 truly guarantee balanced loads, a balanced machine and safer for everyone.