The turning radius on a forklift is also known as the turning circle. This information is essential for a machinery driver to have. It gives the operator the knowledge of how much space is needed to turn the forklift around. For instance, a tighter turning radius allows the equipment to successfully work in crowded areas and tight places, thus enhancing the maneuverability of the forklift. Operators who do not know this measurement may cause damage to the machine or to the property.
Make the necessary steering geometry alignment corrections prior to checking the turning radius. The test must start with an operator trainer helping in the cab where they can help to control the machine's functions. Another individual on the ground uses a spray bottle or a hose to wet the outside and inside of the model's wheels. Then, drive the machinery in a complete circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the procedure once and continue if necessary to wet the wheels.
Measure the watermarks left by the tires utilizing a tape measure after your measurement test has been done. The watermark test begins from the tire mark's midpoint 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 circle's opposite side. The inside turning diameter could be established by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the interior tires. Then, 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.
In order to establish the wall-to-wall turning diameter, drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the machinery. After this is done, the next step is to locate the point on the pavement directly beneath. This point to the turning center indicates the vehicle clearance radius. As a rule, wall-to-wall turning diameter is two times the machinery clearance radius.