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bluebottle34  
#1 Posted : 22 February 2012 11:53:55(UTC)
Rank: New forum user
bluebottle34

Hi all Can two (x 2 Tonne) fork lift trucks be used to lift a 3.5 Tonne load? The load is basically a box with an even distribution of weight, and is to be lifted from a flat back vehicle to the ground, then driven into a workshop. Is it as simple as 2x2=4 (i.e. greater than 3.5) so Yes, they can be used? I don't imagine it's that simple but can't find confirmation either way. Advice appreciated. Thanks Tony
Lawlee45239  
#2 Posted : 22 February 2012 12:07:35(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Lawlee45239

bluebottle34 wrote:
Hi all Can two (x 2 Tonne) fork lift trucks be used to lift a 3.5 Tonne load? The load is basically a box with an even distribution of weight, and is to be lifted from a flat back vehicle to the ground, then driven into a workshop. Is it as simple as 2x2=4 (i.e. greater than 3.5) so Yes, they can be used? I don't imagine it's that simple but can't find confirmation either way. Advice appreciated. Thanks Tony [/quote How is the load being lifted off the flat bed? Is there a possibility of the flat bed fitting into the workshop? I personally wouldnt use the 2 forlifts, only because all operators are different, and there could be issues stopping/starting/ lifting/ lowering.... What is the load?
Ross C  
#3 Posted : 22 February 2012 12:24:21(UTC)
Rank: New forum user
Ross C

It depends how far out on the FLT toes the load is (further out you go the lesser the lifting capacity), if this is acceptable you should use a banksman to ensure that each FLT is lifting/lowering at the same time, this is especially useful if the operators view is obstructed. A RA wouldn't go amiss.
Chris Cahill  
#4 Posted : 22 February 2012 12:24:28(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Chris Cahill

Tandem lifts such as this are commonplace tasks This would be subject to a written lift plan with an appointed person and lift supervisor These person(s) must be trained and competent The lift plan should demonstrate the SWL and dimensions. There are plenty of lift and shift organisation who could assist in this matter
bluebottle34  
#5 Posted : 22 February 2012 12:35:14(UTC)
Rank: New forum user
bluebottle34

Thanks to all contributors so far, each their own valid points! We have already considered the plan for the lift, competence of all involved etc. but was mainly seeking to clarify the lifting capability of a tandem lift involving 2 FLTs. Assuming the lift is a straight lift/lower with the load against the FLT mast is it as simple as 2T + 2T = 4 Tonne SWL?
Ross C  
#6 Posted : 22 February 2012 12:46:30(UTC)
Rank: New forum user
Ross C

Your FLT I'm guessing are 2t@500mm which means at 500mm from the heel of the toe they will safely lift 2t, for example if the load is 2 mtr wide the centre of the load would be 1mtr from the heel which would be roughly around 1.2t working load limit. Your fully trained operators would have been taught this on their training course and should be able to read and understand the load chart fitted to the FLT.
SP900308  
#7 Posted : 22 February 2012 12:48:40(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
SP900308

Bluebottle, Surely if you've considered competence etc - of those involved, ask those assessed competent the question? If they can't answer the question, are they competent to carry out the tandem lift?
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