Komatsu Gas Forklifts Sacramento

Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle

Amongst the key basic discussions about lift trucks is taking into consideration the stability triangle and the center of gravity. Amongst the hardest things for a lift truck operator 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, which is made, together with the machinery and his load, remains within the stability triangle in order to prevent the forklift from 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 have to be concerned not just with the center of gravity of the load being lifted but as well with the combined center of gravity. This includes the lift truck and the load it is picking up.



The load center is defined as the center of gravity of the load. In a uniform load situation, like a bale for example, the load center can 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 really common for lots of lift trucks with smaller capacity. Then again, if a load is not properly centered, such as with non-symmetrical things, maybe an engine for example, then great care and caution must be taken to be able to estimate the center of gravity.



Furthermore, 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 lifted, the center of gravity moves forward. A lot of care must be taken to be able to maintain the center of gravity in the forklift's stability triangle. This happens by following the numbers and not lifting more than the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. As well, the load center has to be taken into consideration. Be aware that whenever raising the load, the load center also shifts 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 balanced loads, a balanced machine and safer for everyone.

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