When the load centre is increased on a forklift truck, it is crucial to recalculate the lifting capacity to ensure safe and efficient operation. The lifting capacity is affected by the load centre distance, and adjusting this distance requires a straightforward calculation. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you determine the new lifting capacity:
Sketch Dimensions
- L: Distance from the middle of the front wheel to the front face of the forks with the mast vertical (in cm).
- X: Truck’s original load centre, usually 50 cm.
- Q: Normal rated capacity of the forklift truck in kilograms.
Initial Calculation
- Add L and X together to get the total distance from the fulcrum of the truck (centreline of the front wheels), denoted as “90 cm” in the sketch.
- Multiply the load capacity (Q) by the total distance obtained in step 1 (e.g., 2000 kg x 90 cm = 180,000 kg·cm).
Example
- Original load centre (X) = 50 cm
- Total distance (L + X) = 90 cm
- Load capacity (Q) = 2000 kg
- Calculation: 2000 kg x 90 cm = 180,000 kg·cm
Adjusting for Increased Load Centre
- If the load centre is increased (e.g., by 6 cm to 56 cm), add this increase to L to reach the drive wheel centreline (56 cm + 40 cm = 96 cm).
- Divide the initial calculation result (180,000 kg·cm) by the new dimension obtained in step 1 (e.g., 180,000 kg·cm ÷ 96 cm = 1875 kg).
Result
- The new lifting capacity with the increased load centre is 1875 kg.
Important Notes
- The effects of the weight of attachments are not considered in these calculations but may need to be accounted for.
- If the load centre is reduced, it does not necessarily mean an increase in the forklift’s capacity. Always check and consult with the forklift manufacturer, and remember to update the capacity rating plate if necessary. Safety and adherence to manufacturer guidelines are paramount when making alterations to the forklift’s lifting capacity.