Komatsu Gas Forklifts San Diego

Forklift Operation - Maintaining the Stability Triangle

The stability triangle and the center of gravity is among the key basic operating factors. One of the most difficult things for a lift truck operator to determine is the significance of maintaining their center of gravity within their stability triangle.



The Stability Triangle

To describe 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 should make sure that the center of gravity, that is made, combined with the machine and his load, remains within the stability triangle to be able to prevent the forklift from 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 includes the load which is being picked up and the lift truck itself.



The load center is defined as the center of gravity of the load. In a uniform load situation, such as a bale for instance, the load center can be more easily detected. A uniform load on a 48 inch long pallet, for instance, would have the load center at 24 inches. This is a common load center for numerous lift trucks with smaller capacity. Then again, if a load is not correctly centered, such as with things that are not symmetrical, maybe an engine for instance, then a lot of caution and care must be taken to be able to gauge the center of gravity.



The lift truck has its own center of gravity, which shifts each and every time the lift truck carries a load. When the load is lifted, the center of gravity shifts forward. A lot of care must 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 more than the maximum allowable, given the center of the load. As well, the load center must be considered. Be really careful whenever lifting the load, the load center also shifts forward.



The operator and everyone else who works in the nearby vicinity or close-by, can stay a lot safer if the stability triangle is respected and the center of gravity is maintained. This will guarantee balanced loads, a balanced equipment and safer for everyone.

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