Crane Load Charts ((free)) -

Reading the chart is only the first step. Real-world conditions can reduce the capacities listed on the paper.

“The chart is a math problem,” Ray said, finally lifting the load an inch off the ground to test the level. “The lift is a physics problem. We’re not lifting paper. We’re lifting steel. And steel doesn’t care about your safety factor.”

“Manny,” Ray said, “you forget the rigging?” crane load charts

Then he checked the fine print at the bottom.

The angle of the boom relative to the horizontal ground. Higher angles generally allow for heavier lifts. Reading the chart is only the first step

High winds increase the sail area of the load and put lateral stress on the boom. Most manufacturers provide a maximum wind speed limit beyond which the load chart is no longer valid. How to Read a Crane Load Chart: A Step-by-Step Guide

“Hey, Ray,” Manny’s voice crackled over the radio. “The prefab unit is 42,000 pounds. Charts say at 80 feet radius with 120 feet of boom, we’re good for 48,000. We got six grand to spare. Easy lift.” “The lift is a physics problem

To read a load chart correctly, you must understand the core variables that dictate lifting capacity:

To understand a load chart, you must understand the physics of leverage. A crane acts as a first-class lever.

Subtract the weight of the block, ball, and rigging from the value found in the chart to find your Net Capacity. The Danger of Exceeding the Chart