Understanding the Load Capacity

1. Understanding the Load Capacity Maintaining the load capacity of a forklift is important because otherwise, it can result in tipping over of the load, damaging it and/or injuring anyone around. A trained forklift operator should know the load capacity and for anyone who is aspiring to one day become a successful forklift operator, here is a guide on the what, why and how of the load capacity. What is Load Capacity? The maximum load carried by a forklift at a specified load centre is called the load capacity of a forklift. In case the load is not centred correctly at a precise position on the forklift, it will reduce its capacity. A data plate is usually fitted in front of the forklifts, it has all kinds of information like the lift height, load centre distance, brand and model and it also has information about the load capacity at different angles and when any attachment is fitted on the truck. Before using the truck, this information must be read by the operator. Load Capacity of Different Forklifts Engine-powered forklifts are equipped with normal counterweights that help them balance the weight of the load and batteries of electric forklifts usually act as counterweights for them. In case the battery is not enough then a separate counterweight is attached at the back of the forklift.

2. In case any attachment is fixed on the forklift then the load capacity will change because of the added weight of the attachment. So the load capacity of that attachment, and/or any other modifications will be considered to determine a net capacity. The net capacity added to the original load capacity of the forklift will give the overall load capacity of the forklift. The centre of gravity of the forklift must also be considered while calculating the load capacity because it will help in keeping the forklift stable. The centre of gravity can be calculated by using a 24-inch load centre for 4-foot forks and a 30-inch load centre for a 5-foot fork. Remember the larger the load centre, the small the load capacity. Tips for Managing the Load Capacity Try to buy a truck with more load capacity than needed, and prioritize safe load capacity over oversized loads. Make sure to weigh the loads properly before loading them onto the truck. Follow the data plate always and encourage the operator to abide by its information rather than use their instincts about the load capacity. The operator must ensure the even distribution of the load across the forks and also drive carefully while taking the load to its destination, especially at turns. Operators need to learn all this in forklift training courses and a noble forklift training centre like RS Forklift Training Centres in Birmingham and West Midlands will make sure you are well-versed with every aspect of load capacity of different trucks with and without attachments and make you capable of handling every load with ease and utmost care. For more information on forklift trucks visit RS Forklift Training Centres in Birmingham and West Midlands or find us on Google by typing “forklift training near me.”