Example Load and Rigging Calculations

This example provides the basic steps for performing load and rigging calculations. Bobs
Rigging & Crane Handbook (latest edition) or equivalent handbook should be used as reference.
1. Determine the total weight of the load and rigging through:
a. Documents, shipping labels, name plate
b. Information from a qualified person (engineer, designer)
c. Weigh the load
d. Calculate the load
2. Determine the required working load limit (WLL) of the crane/hoist. The WLL of the
weakest component must be sufficient to handle the load and associated rigging.
a. Determine the WLL of all hoist components and
b. Verify that the WLL is sufficient
3. Determine the WLL for all rigging components.
Example Problem:
A container filled with seawater is to be hoisted. Determine the following based on the diagram
below:
a. The weight of the container of seawater
b. The load on each of the sling legs
c. The size and type of eye bolt to be used

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Calculating the weight of the container:

Length (L) x Width (W) x Height (H) x Density = Weight.
The average density of seawater was determined to be 64 pounds per cubic foot. If uncertain,
always verify density and other factors or calculations with a knowledgeable/competent person.
3 x 3 x 2 x 64 lbs/ft3 = 18 ft3 x 64 lbs/ft3 = 1,152 lbs.
Calculating the load on each of the sling legs:
The vertical load for each sling = number of legs divided by the weight of the container
1,152 lbs divided by 3 legs* = Vertical load for each sling = 384 lbs

* Use 3 legs for the load

calculation. One leg is
generally balancing the
load and cannot be used
in load calculations.

Calculating the tension in each sling leg:

1/sin 450 x vertical load = sling tension. 1.414 x 384 lbs = 543 lbs
The tension in each sling leg is 543 lbs. NOTE: calculate sling tension using 1/sin of angle or
use Load Sling Factor from the applicable table in Bobs Rigging & Crane Handbook.

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Determining the size and type of eye bolt.

Always use forged, shoulder-type eye bolt for angular lifts.
De-rate eye bolt according to table:
For 450, the factor is 0.3
Direction
of Pull

Adjusted Working
Load Limit
(WLL)

45 Degrees

30% of WLL

90 Degrees

25% of WLL

Page 179 Bobs Rigging & Crane Handbook

Direction of pull = 450; therefore, de-rate eye bolt to 30% of WLL.

From Table 1, select an eye bolt where 0.3 x WLL is greater than 543 lbs.
From Table 1
Forged Eye Bolt
Size (inches)
1/4

Working Load
Limit (lbs)
500

5/16

800

3/8

1,200

1/2

2,200

5/8

3,500

A inch forged shoulder type eye bolt is the

best choice.
0.3 x 2,200 = 660 lbs, which is >543 lbs.

Page 179 Bobs Rigging & Crane Handbook

Rules of thumb:
Never rig below 300, which doubles the sling tension
450 or higher is preferred
600 is good
900 is best

Contact: EH&S Office, x3347.

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