Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle
The center of gravity and the stability triangle is one of the key basic operating considerations. One of the most difficult things for an operator of a lift truck to determine 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 created when imaginary lines are drawn between these three points. The operator must ensure that the center of gravity, which is created, together with his load and the machinery itself, 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 using 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 includes the load that is being picked up and the lift truck itself.
The load center is defined as the load's center of gravity. In a uniform load situation, such as a bale for instance, the load center could be more easily detected. Like for example, a uniform load on a 48 inch long pallet, would have the load center at 24 inches. This load center is very common for lots of smaller capacity lift trucks. Then again, if a load is not centered correctly, like with non-symmetrical things, maybe an engine for instance, then a lot of caution and care must be taken in order to estimate the center of gravity.
In addition, the lift truck has it's own center of gravity. This shifts every time the lift truck carries a load. When the load is lifted, the center of gravity shifts forward. Care should 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 more than the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. What's more, the load center must be considered. 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 workers and pedestrians nearby can stay much safer. This would ensure a balanced machine, balanced loads and safer for everyone.