Loading Ramp Grades 1

[caleb]

I have been asked to design a fork-lift ramp for building access. Apparently access to the building was overlooked when it was constructed last spring and this results in a very steep grade (3" per foot) on the ramp. My question is:

What is the maximum allowable grade for fork-lift loading ramps? Does anyone have literature that I may reference in my design package?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Caleb

 

[unclesyd]

We used 1:8 for fork trucks on all the latest construction thoug in the past we had used somewhat steeper, probably 1:6. The change was made due to on injury from a rollover by fork truck. The ramp angle is goverened by the tilt test required on the fork trucks.
There is also an ANSI specification where it concerns fork trucks and the OSHA inspector was pretty tight on this requirement.
Also check your local codes as they have specific requirements. We had to prove that the ramps would never be used by a handicapped person.

 

[griffengm]

Caleb,
Check standard but also sketch out the relationship between forklift wheel base, ground clearance, and the transition between ramp and higher floor. There is a chance of high-centering a truck even if the grade meets specs. Guess how I know.

Griffy

 

[DesignerMike]

One thing to add: pay attention to the ramp surface. (you'll most likely use asphalt or concrete) but I have a customer with a steel grated ramp. The ramp is very gradual, my guess is 1:8 but every time it rains or snows, the forktrucks can't make it up the grade....they need a full head of speed to get to the top and then need to take the corner into the building. Needless to say the railing has some battle wounds. The ramp is not a normal path for moving product, just the route to get to the other levels of the plant..... but dangerous just the same.

 

[ruble3]

The manufacturer of the lift trucks should have gradeability charts- they may be different for loaded/unloaded conditions- the major manufacturers all have good websites ( Toyota, Caterpillar, Hyundai,)- everyone I've looked at had the charts