Load Chart
A manufacturer-provided chart showing the maximum safe lifting capacities at various boom lengths and radii.
In Detail
A load chart is a critical safety document provided by the crane manufacturer that specifies the maximum load the crane can safely lift at various combinations of boom length, boom angle, and operating radius. Load charts account for factors like counterweight configuration, outrigger/crawler position, and whether the crane is on rubber or outriggers. Operating beyond load chart limits is the leading cause of crane tip-overs and collapses. Load charts must be available to operators at all times and are a key inspection item — any missing, damaged, or illegible load chart is a serious deficiency.
Related Terms
Rated Capacity
The maximum load a crane can safely lift at a given configuration, as specified by the manufacturer's load chart.
Operating Radius
The horizontal distance from the crane's center of rotation to the center of the load being lifted.
Tip-Over
A catastrophic event where a crane loses stability and overturns, often caused by overloading, ground failure, or improper setup.