The turning radius on a forklift is also known as the turning circle. This information is vital for a machine driver to have. It gives the driver the knowledge of how much space is required to turn the lift truck around. For example, a tighter turning radius enables the equipment to function successfully in congested areas and tight places, therefore improving the forklift's maneuverability. Drivers who are not aware of this measurement could cause damage to the machinery or to the property.
Before testing the turning radius, check the steering geometry alignment and correct it if it requires adjustment. Begin the test with having the trained operator inside the cab to control the equipment's functions. A second person on the ground uses a hose or a spray bottle to wet the outside and inside of the model's wheels. Next, drive the equipment in a complete circle with the wheels turned to the maximum angle. Repeat the process once and if necessary, continue to wet the wheels.
Measure the watermarks left by the tires utilizing a tape measure after your measurement test has been completed. The watermark test starts 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 opposite side of the circle. The inside turning diameter can be determined by stretching the tape measure across the circle left by the inner tires. Next, divide these numbers in 2 to be able to determine the turning radius. Be sure to note that the turning center is the midpoint of the diameter of the circle.
To be able to determine the wall-to-wall turning diameter, drop a plumb line from the extreme outside radial extension on the machinery. After this is completed, the next step is to locate the point on the pavement directly underneath. 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.