Why does the load capacity drop during a turn in a Hydra crane?

Hydra cranes are articulated in the center. During a turn, the center of gravity shifts outside the stability triangle, significantly reducing capacity. A 20-ton crane may only handle 10 tons at full articulation.

What is the Free-on-Wheels rating for Pick and Carry cranes?

Free-on-Wheels refers to the Pick and Carry rating, which is the maximum load a crane can transport while moving. This is lower than static capacity due to dynamic forces.

Hydra Crane Load Chart Calculator | SWL & Tipping Risk Estimator

How to Calculate Hydra Crane SWL? Pick & Carry Load Chart Safety Estimator

Analyze Tipping Risks and Stability Factors for Articulated Mobile Cranes

Crane Class (Rated Capacity)

Working Radius (Meters)

Actual Load to Lift (Tons)

Articulated Angle (Steering)

🚧 Engineering Safety Assessment

Calculated SWL at current Radius:	Tons
Capacity Utilization:	%
Lift Status:

⚠️ Safety Note: Pick and Carry cranes are highly sensitive to ground leveling and steering angles. Never exceed 85% utilization for safe operations.

In the above Hydra Pick & Carry Crane tipping safety analyser tool, select the options and get the report.

Hydra Crane Stability Factors

Articulation Angle	Capacity Reduction	Safety Status
0° (Straight)	100% Capacity	Full Stability
15° Turn	~80% Capacity	Reduced Stability
Full Articulation (40°+)	~50% Capacity	High Tipping Risk

Hydra Crane Safety & Operations FAQ

Q: Why does the load capacity drop during a turn?

Ans: Hydra cranes are articulated in the center. When the crane turns, the center of gravity shifts outside the stability triangle. For example, a 20-ton hydra might only safely lift 10 tons when at full articulation (fully turned) compared to a straight-line lift.

Q: What is the “Free-on-Wheels” rating?

Ans: This refers to the maximum load a Hydra can safely carry while traveling. It is critical to check your specific load chart for Static vs. Pick and Carry ratings; moving a load adds dynamic forces that significantly increase the risk of tipping.