When planning a construction project, there are countless things to consider, such as the timeline, your budget, and the equipment you’ll need to complete it. A crane is an important piece of equipment in many industries. It can move loads in multiple directions and allow for greater control and precision in the movement of materials, reducing the risk of damage and accidents. However, whether you are buying a crane or hiring one from a crane rental company (although renting a crane can be more cost-effective than buying one), it’s crucial to understand the lifting capacity of different cranes before using them. A crane that perfectly meets your project’s lifting requirements can help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries on the job site and avoid dropping the load or damaging the machine.
Various factors, such as the position of the hoist and the lift radius, among others, must be taken into consideration to determine the lifting capacity of a crane. Want to know how to calculate the lifting capacity of cranes? Well, keep reading the blog until the end.
Top 5 Tips to Determine the Lifting Capacity of a Crane
Before starting any construction project, calculating the load capacity of the crane is important. Here are some useful tips for you.
- Check the Load Chart
The load chart allows for estimating the load capacity of cranes without extensive calculations. It shows the cranes’ dimensions, and their maximum weight capacity, as well as contains information about the steering dimensions, transport weight, and outriggers. If you are working in a narrow space, this information is important as the lifting capacity depends on the use of the outriggers. Moreover, as the chart is specific to each crane model, it also provides details such as load radius, angle, and boom length.
- Consider the Crane’s Configuration
The configuration of the crane can also affect its lifting capacity. A crane is controlled from a rotating and movable platform known as an outrigger base, which can be several meters high. The boom arm stretches outward and upward at a set angle, and there is an apparatus at the end of this boom arm that lifts the materials to be lifted and moved. Moreover, cranes with shorter booms have a lower lifting capacity, while those with longer booms have a higher lifting capacity.
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- Measure the Weight of the Load
Different cranes have different working radii, load capacities, and capabilities. And should you want to avoid overloading the crane, make sure to be accurate when determining the weight of the load. To determine the load’s weight, you can use a scale or calculate it based on density and dimensions.
- Take Into Account the Weather Conditions
As you might already know, when you hire a crane from a crane rental company, you need to take proper precautions to ensure that the crane is operating in a safe environment. You will need to monitor weather conditions and also take steps to protect the crane from extreme weather. But did you know that environmental factors, such as rain, wind, and temperature, can also significantly affect the lifting capacity of a crane? Well, that’s right! However, by considering the weather conditions, you will be able to adjust the lifting capacity of the crane accordingly.
- Consult a Professional
If you are using cranes for the first time and are unsure about the lifting capacity of your cranes, it is best to consult with an expert. They will not only help you determine if it is safe to lift a particular load but also provide guidance on the crane’s maximum weight capacity.
Wrapping Up
In order to ensure a safe work environment and allow for faster and more efficient movement of materials, determining the right load capacity of a crane is essential. If you are in search of a renowned crane rental company that can help you choose the right crane, reach out to ABC Crane Hire. We not only provide a wide range of cranes to choose from but also address any concerns or issues about cranes. To get in touch with us, visit ABC Crane Hire or call (08) 9524 5502.