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The Forklift Load Capacity Calculator
The Forklift Load Capacity Calculator
With the Free Online Forklift Load Capacity Calculator, you can easily determine the maximum load capacity of your forklift under various conditions. Perfect for everyday work or for learning if you're currently getting your forklift license.
Instructions
Select Calculation Type: Choose the desired calculation type from the dropdown menu.
Standard Capacity: Calculates load capacity based on rated capacity and load center. (Sufficient for most applications.)
Capacity with Attachments: Considers the impact of attachments on load capacity. (Important for fork extensions and other add-ons.)
Full Capacity Calculation: Advanced calculation considering all relevant factors. (For even more precision.)
Input Values: Depending on the selected calculation type, different input fields will appear.
You can enter the weight in the logically superior metric system (kg) – or, if absolutely necessary, in lb.
The same goes for distances: either in the brilliantly thought-out metric system (mm) or in inches, if you prefer juggling with odd numbers.
Calculate: Click on "Calculate" to determine the maximum load capacity.
Result: The result will be displayed in the designated area.
Which Calculation Method is Right for Me?
In most cases, Scenario 1 or Scenario 2 are sufficient to determine the load capacity. However, Scenario 3 offers the highest precision and should be used when an exact load capacity calculation is required. That said, always exercise caution, as factors like tilt angle, lift height, and speed can also impact the load capacity. A little common sense should always be taken into account too. 😉
Please note that, apart from the standard formula, the calculation methods may differ from those in your textbooks. There are countless ways to determine a forklift's maximum load – the ones shown in this tool are just a few of them.
Practical Examples
Scenario 1: Simple Calculation (Standard Load Center)
A forklift with a rated capacity of 2000 kg is set to transport a load. The manufacturer specifies that the forklift's standard load center is 500 mm. However, the load to be moved has an actual load center of 600 mm.
Since the load center is further forward, the risk of tipping increases. To account for this, the forklift's load capacity needs to be adjusted.
Calculation: 2000 * (500 / 600) = 1666.67
The maximum load capacity of the forklift is now 1666.67 kg. This means that with a load center of 600 mm, the forklift can only utilize about 83% of its original rated capacity.
This method is simple and quick and is usually sufficient when the forklift doesn't use attachments and the load is properly positioned.
Scenario 2: Capacity with Attachments (Altered Load Center)
Now, a forklift with a rated capacity of 2500 kg is used. The standard load center is still at 500 mm. However, an attachment is added: a fork extension.
The fork extension weighs 200 kg and moves the load center further forward. The distance from the wheel to the fork is now 400 mm, while the standard load center remains at 500 mm.
Calculation: (2500 * 500) / (400 + 500) - (200 * 400) / (400 + 500) = 1300
The attachment has a significant impact on the forklift’s load capacity.
This method is often sufficient for practical use when attachments like fork extensions or add-ons such as fork width extensions or crane forks are used.
Scenario 3: Full Capacity Calculation (Complex Load Shift)
In this scenario, a forklift with a rated capacity of 3000 kg is used. The forklift’s standard load center is 500 mm. The boss wants a more precise calculation this time to ensure safety — after all, it's about workplace safety.
An attachment is used that shifts the load center further forward. The exact distances and weights are as follows: The distance from the wheel to the fork is 300 mm, the distance from the fork to the attachment is 200 mm, and the distance from the fork to the load is 400 mm. Additionally, the distance from the load to the load center is 150 mm. The weight of the attachment is 200 kg.
Calculation: (3000 * 500) / (300 + 200 + 400 + 150) - (200 * (200 + 400)) / (300 + 200 + 400 + 150) = 1314.29 kg
This precise calculation shows that the attachment and distances significantly reduce the forklift’s load capacity. The boss can now ensure that workplace safety is maintained.
This method is the most complex, but also the most accurate, as it factors in multiple elements in the calculation.
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