Step-by-Step Lift Load Calculation with Practical Example

 

Lift Load Calculation: A Practical Example

Let’s break down a scenario for a lift with a capacity of 1500 kg and evaluate the imposed load on its machine base slab.

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Step 1: Define the Lift System Weights

Component	Weight (kg)
Capacity of Lift	1500
Weight of Cabin	1200
Weight of Counterweight	2000
Weight of Motor	500
Weight of Controller Machine Room Accessories	400

Total Load of Lift = 5600 kg
Converted to pounds: 12,345 lb

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Step 2: Include Impact Load
To account for dynamic forces (e.g., sudden starts or stops), an impact load factor of 100% is added.

• Impact Load = Total Load x 2
• Total Load with Impact = 12,345 lb x 2
• = 24,690 lb

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Step 3: Calculate the Area of the Machine Base

The machine base area is the space where the total load is distributed.

• Slab Dimensions:
  • Long Direction = 10.0 ft
  • Short Direction = 12.0 ft
• Area of Slab = 10.0 x 12.0 = 120 sq. ft

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Step 4: Determine the Load Imposed on the Slab

To calculate the imposed load:

• Load on Slab = Total Load ÷ Area of Slab
  • = 24,690 lb ÷ 120 sq. ft
  • = 205.75 psf (pounds per square foot)