Example Load and Rigging Calculations

This example provides the basic steps for performing load and rigging calculations. Bobs Rigging & Crane Handbook (latest edition) or equivalent handbook should be used as reference. 1. Determine the total weight of the load and rigging through: a. Documents, shipping labels, name plate b. Information from a qualified person (engineer, designer) c. Weigh the load d. Calculate the load 2. Determine the required working load limit (WLL) of the crane/hoist. The WLL of the weakest component must be sufficient to handle the load and associated rigging. a. Determine the WLL of all hoist components and b. Verify that the WLL is sufficient 3. Determine the WLL for all rigging components. Example Problem: A container filled with seawater is to be hoisted. Determine the following based on the diagram below: a. The weight of the container of seawater b. c. The load on each of the 4 sling legs The size and type of eye bolt to be used

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Calculating the weight of the container: Length (L) x Width (W) x Height (H) x Density = Weight. The average density of seawater was determined to be 64 pounds per cubic foot. If uncertain, always verify density and other factors or calculations with a knowledgeable/competent person. 3 x 3 x 2 x 64 lbs/ft3 = 18 ft3 x 64 lbs/ft3 = 1,152 lbs. Calculating the load on each of the sling legs: The vertical load for each sling = number of legs divided by the weight of the container 1,152 lbs divided by 4 legs = Vertical load for each sling = 288 lbs

Calculating the tension in each sling leg: 1/sin 450 x vertical load = sling tension. 1.414 x 288 lbs = 407 lbs The tension in each sling leg is 407 lbs. NOTE: calculate sling tension using 1/sin of angle or use Load Sling Factor from the applicable table in Bobs Rigging & Crane Handbook.

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Determining the size and type of eye bolt. Always use forged, shoulder-type eye bolt for angular lifts. De-rate eye bolt according to table: For 450, the factor is 0.3
Direction of Pull 45 Degrees Adjusted Working Load Limit (WLL) 30% of WLL

90 Degrees

25% of WLL

Page 179 Bobs Rigging & Crane Handbook

Direction of pull = 450; therefore, de-rate eye bolt to 30% of WLL. From Table 1, select an eye bolt where 0.3 x WLL is greater than 407 lbs. From Table 1
Forged Eye Bolt Size (inches) 1/4 5/16 3/8 1/2 5/8 Working Load Limit (lbs) 500 800 1,200 2,200 3,500

A inch forged shoulder type eye bolt is the best choice. 0.3 x 2,200 = 660 lbs, which is >407 lbs.

Page 179 Bobs Rigging & Crane Handbook

Rules of thumb: Never rig below 300, which doubles the sling tension 450 or higher is preferred 600 is good 900 is best

Contact: EH&S Office, x3347.

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