1. What is Ground Bearing Pressure?

Ground Bearing Pressure (GBP) is a critical measurement in crane operations that determines the pressure exerted by the crane on the ground surface. It's essential for ensuring the stability of Kobelco cranes and preventing ground failure during lifting operations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Ground Bearing Pressure formula:

Where:

• \( GBP \) — Ground Bearing Pressure (kPa)
• \( Total\ Weight \) — Total weight of the crane including counterweights and load (kg)
• \( Contact\ Area \) — Total area of crane contact with the ground (m²)

Explanation: The formula calculates the pressure distribution by dividing the total weight by the area over which it's distributed.

3. Importance of GBP Calculation

Details: Accurate GBP calculation is crucial for crane safety, preventing ground settlement or failure, ensuring operational stability, and complying with safety regulations on various ground types.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter total weight in kilograms, contact area in square meters. Both values must be positive numbers. The result is given in kilopascals (kPa).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a safe GBP value for crane operations?
A: Safe GBP values vary by ground type. Generally, 50-150 kPa is acceptable for firm ground, while softer ground may require lower values or additional support.

Q2: How do I measure contact area for outriggers?
A: Measure the area of each outrigger pad and multiply by the number of outriggers. For crawler cranes, measure the track contact area.

Q3: Does the load weight affect GBP calculation?
A: Yes, the total weight includes both the crane's weight and the lifted load weight, plus any additional counterweights.

Q4: When should I use crane mats?
A: Use crane mats when the calculated GBP exceeds the ground's safe bearing capacity to distribute the load over a larger area.

Q5: Are there different calculation methods for different crane types?
A: While the basic formula is the same, different crane configurations (outrigger, crawler, etc.) require different approaches to measuring contact area.