How does the stability of a crane change with the load radius?

The stability of a crane is significantly affected by the load radius, which is the horizontal distance from the center of the crane's rotation to the load being lifted. As the load radius increases, the leverage that the load exerts on the crane also increases. This increased leverage results in a higher risk of tipping over since the center of gravity shifts, moving further away from the base of support.

When a crane operates with a larger load radius, the effective weight distribution changes, leading to a greater chance of instability as the load's weight shifts away from the crane's center. Therefore, it becomes crucial for operators to consider the load radius during lifting operations to ensure safety and stability. Proper knowledge regarding the relationship between load radius and stability helps prevent accidents and ensures that the crane is operated within its safe limits.