How does the ground pressure of a crane change with the load amount?

When considering the ground pressure exerted by a crane, it is essential to understand that ground pressure is determined by the weight of the crane and the load it is carrying, distributed over the area of the outrigger pads or tracks. As the load being lifted increases, the total weight supported by the crane also increases, resulting in greater ground pressure.

This principle stems from basic physics, where weight creates pressure on a surface. The pressure is calculated as the weight divided by the area over which that weight is distributed. Therefore, when the load increases, assuming the surface area remains constant, the pressure on the ground will also increase. This is crucial for ensuring that the ground can support the crane without risk of sinking or tipping.

Understanding this relationship is vital for crane operation safety and ground stability assessments, as exceeding the ground pressure limits can lead to dangerous situations.