What is the load center of the forklift?

The load center of a forklift is the point at which the weight of a load is evenly distributed. It is crucial for the stability of the forklift when lifting and moving loads. The distance of the load center from the fork root influences the load capacity; the further the center of gravity is, the lower the safe load capacity of the forklift.

Was versteht man unter dem Lastschwerpunktabstand?

Der Lastschwerpunktabstand ist der Abstand zwischen der Gabelrückseite (Gabelwurzel) und dem Schwerpunkt der aufgenommenen Last . Er ist entscheidend für die Stabilität und die zulässige Tragfähigkeit eines Gabelstaplers. Grundsätzlich gilt: Je größer der Lastschwerpunktabstand , desto weiter liegt das Gewicht vom Stapler entfernt – und desto geringer fällt die maximale Tragkraft aus. Das Risiko, dass der Stapler nach vorne kippt, steigt mit zunehmender Hebellänge. Deshalb ist es wichtig, Lasten möglichst kompakt und nah an der Gabelrückseite aufzunehmen.

Where is the center of gravity of a forklift?

The load center of a forklift is typically located at the center of the load, measured from the rear of the forks. In most cases, it is approximately 500 mm from the rear of the forks, assuming the load is evenly distributed. However, the exact load center can vary depending on the size and shape of the load and affects the stability and load capacity of the forklift.

How do I read a load chart?

A load chart shows the maximum load capacity of a machine in various working positions and equipment conditions. Here's a simple guide: X-axis: The reach or Working height – This shows how far or high the machine can work with loads. Y-axis: The Load capacity – This is the maximum weight the machine can safely lift. Curves and lines: They show how the load capacity changes depending on how far the machine is extended or at what height it is working. The further extended, the lower the load capacity becomes. Security area: Everything under the curves is the safe area Make sure that the load always remains within this limit. Warnings: Pay attention to marked safety zones and Limits which indicate that the machine may tip over or be damaged if overloaded.

Was bedeutet Lastschwerpunktabstand?

Der Lastschwerpunktabstand beschreibt den Abstand zwischen der Mitte der Last und dem Drehpunkt einer Maschine oder eines Fahrzeugs (z. B. bei einem Stapler oder einer Arbeitsbühne). Er gibt an, wie weit die Last vom Drehpunkt entfernt ist und beeinflusst somit die Stabilität und das Kipprisiko der Maschine. Warum ist der Lastschwerpunktabstand wichtig? Je weiter der Lastschwerpunkt von der Maschine entfernt ist, desto größer ist das Risiko , dass die Maschine kippt oder überlastet wird. Kürzere Lastschwerpunktabstände sorgen für eine größere Stabilität und weniger Kipprisiko .

Reading and understanding load diagrams correctly

Zusammenfassung

Load diagrams show how much weight can be lifted safely under which conditions– depending on boom length, angle and load center of gravity.If you read and apply them correctly, you will protect yourself from incorrect loading and accidents.

Whether it is a crane, forklift or work platform: the load diagram is compulsory reading before every use.Modern machines often show the values live on the display – for maximum control and safety when lifting.

Load charts are an indispensable tool in the field of lifting and moving loads. They guide you safely through the complex requirements and ensure safe and efficient execution of lifting operations.

In this guide, we'll explain the basics, introduce the different types, and show you how to read and use them correctly.

What is a load diagram?

A load diagram is a visual representation that illustrates the load capacity and operating limits of a lifting device, such as a crane, forklift, or work platform.

This diagram provides important information about how much weight can be safely lifted depending on various parameters.

Typically, a load diagram contains information about

Boom length
The distance over which the crane, forklift or work platform can work.
boom angle
The angle at which the boom is inclined to the ground.
Load weight
Weight of the load to be lifted.

These parameters vary depending on the machine and model.

A load chart is typically included in the machine data sheet and the hoist's operating manual. It is an important reference for machine operators, helping them understand and maintain the machine's load limits.

Proper application and understanding of a load chart is crucial for safe lifting operations. You must ensure that current conditions, such as boom length and angle, match the parameters specified in the chart to lift the weight safely and avoid potential hazards. Therefore, it is recommended that you always carefully study and follow the load chart to perform safe and efficient lifting operations.

Where can I find the load diagram?

A load chart is often included in the machine data sheet and operating instructions for a lifting device. It may also be located on the machine's control panel.

Different types of load diagrams

There are different types of load charts, which can vary depending on the type of lifting equipment and application. Common types include graphical and tabular load charts. Graphical load charts present information visually, allowing for quick assessment, while tabular load charts provide detailed data in tabular format.

How to read a load chart correctly

Properly reading a capacity chart begins with identifying the relevant parameters, such as boom length, boom angle, and load weight. Within the chart, you'll find lines or table entries indicating the maximum load capacity for each configuration. Care should be taken not to exceed the specified maximum values. It's also important to note footnotes and warnings, which may contain additional instructions or restrictions.

How to read a forklift load diagram correctly

A forklift load chart indicates how much weight the forklift can safely lift under specific conditions, taking into account factors such as lift height and load center. To properly interpret a load chart, you must first determine the maximum load capacity indicated on the horizontal axis of the chart and then observe how that capacity changes with changes in the lift height and load center distance indicated on the vertical axis.
It is important that the limits indicated in the diagram are not exceeded to ensure the stability of the forklift and avoid dangerous situations.

Forklift load diagram

Reading the crane load diagram correctly

A crane load chart shows the loads a crane can safely lift at different radii and under various conditions. First, determine the crane's maximum lifting capacity, which is usually indicated at the bottom of the chart.

Then, observe how this capacity changes as the boom length (shown horizontally) and boom angle (shown vertically) vary. It's important to note the specific height and reach specifications and ensure that the weights being lifted are within the safety limits of the diagram.

Live load diagram on display

Modern cranes and hoists are often equipped with a "Live Load Display," a revolutionary improvement for the safety and efficiency of lifting operations. This feature allows the operator to view current load data and parameters in real time on a screen or display.

The Live Load Chart not only displays the crane's current load capacity as a function of boom position and angle, but also takes into account dynamic factors such as wind speed and direction. This information is crucial to ensuring safety during the lifting process.

The ability to monitor load data in real time allows operators to respond immediately and adjust lifting operations as conditions change. This not only increases safety but also enables more efficient use of lifting equipment and reduces unnecessary downtime.

All in all, the live load chart on the display represents a significant advancement in the world of lifting by providing the operator with accurate, real-time information that takes the safety and productivity of lifting operations to a new level.

Calculate load center distance

The load center distance is the distance from the front wheel (or pivot point) of the forklift to the center of gravity of the load being lifted. To calculate this distance, you need to follow these steps:

Identify the center of gravity of the load:
The center of gravity is the point where the weight of the load is evenly distributed. For symmetrical loads, the center of gravity is in the middle. For irregularly shaped loads, a more precise assessment may be necessary.
Measure the distance:
Once the load's center of gravity is identified, measure the distance from the forklift's front wheel (or front pivot) to the load's center of gravity. This is the load center distance.
Consider the load-bearing device:
If a load-handling device (e.g., fork extensions) is used, its weight and its impact on the center of gravity must also be considered. The center of gravity of the load-handling device shifts forward, increasing the effective load center distance.
Compare it with the forklift specifications:
Each forklift has a maximum permissible load center distance, which is specified in the operator's manual or on the forklift's nameplate. Ensure that the calculated load center distance is within these specifications to ensure the safety and stability of the forklift.

How load diagrams prevent accidents during lifting work

Suppose a telehandler is being used on a construction site. The operator needs to lift a heavy load but fails to check the load chart. Without considering the relevant information about boom length, boom angle, and load weight, the operator lifts a load that exceeds the machine's maximum capacity.

A dangerous situation arises. The telehandler loses its balance and tips to the side, putting the operator and possibly other workers in acute danger. It would have been better to adhere to the load diagram.

This practical example demonstrates the importance of load charts. They are more than just diagrams; they are life-saving tools. Reading and applying a load chart correctly helps prevent lifting accidents and ensure workplace safety.

About the author

Martin Biberger

Managing Director

Martin is the founder and managing director of BIBERGER Arbeitsbühnen & Forklifts.

He is responsible for thetechnical areaTogether with his team, he is responsible for thetechnical purchasingthe machines thatFurther development of the machine inventoryand the smooth operation of over 1,500 BIBERGER rental devices.

From many years of experience he knows theStrengths and weaknesses of all device classes, the possibleAreas of applicationand thetechnical possibilities– always with a view to theDevelopment of the entire industryand future innovations.