National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) Mobile Crane Practice Exam

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What does the term 'ground bearing pressure' refer to in crane operations?

  1. The total weight of the crane

  2. The force exerted by the crane on the ground

  3. The pressure applied by the load being lifted

  4. The area of contact between crane and ground

The correct answer is: The force exerted by the crane on the ground

The term 'ground bearing pressure' refers specifically to the force exerted by the crane on the ground. This concept is critical in crane operations because it determines how much weight the ground must support without compromising stability or causing damage to the surface below. Ground bearing pressure is calculated by taking the total weight imposed by the crane, including its own weight and any additional loads, and distributing that weight over the area of the crane's support points, such as the outriggers or the wheels. Knowing the ground bearing pressure is essential for safe operation, as exceeding the allowable bearing capacity of the ground can lead to sinking, tipping, or structural failure of the surface. Proper understanding and calculation of this pressure help ensure that the crane is positioned on suitable ground that can handle the loads it will impose during lifting operations.