The turning radius on a forklift is also known as the turning circle. This information is vital for a machinery operator to have. It gives the driver the information of how much space is required to turn the forklift around. For example, a tighter turning radius enables the machine to function successfully in restricted places and congested areas, thus improving the forklift's maneuverability. Drivers who do not know this measurement can cause damage to the property or to the equipment.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections prior to checking the turning radius. The test must begin with an operator trainer helping inside the cab where they can assist to control the equipment's functions. A second individual on the ground utilizes a hose or a spray bottle to wet the inside and outside of the unit's wheels. Then, drive the machinery in a whole circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the process once and continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
Measure the watermarks left by the tires utilizing a tape measure once your measurement test has been completed. The watermark test begins from the midpoint of the tire mark to a similar point across the circle's diameter. For the outside turning diameter, measure the watermark left by the exterior tires from the circle's one side to the opposite side of the circle. You could establish the inside turning radius by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner tires. After that, divide these numbers in 2 in order to determine the turning radius. Be certain to note that the turning center is the midpoint of the circle's diameter.
Drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the machinery in order to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter. Once this is accomplished, next find the point on the pavement directly beneath. This point to the turning center indicates the clearance radius of the machinery. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is twice the clearance radius of the machinery.