You need a robust skid steer or track loader with an excellent rated operating capacity (ROC) to handle your toughest loads. A skid steer’s ROC determines the maximum weight it can safely lift and transport. Gregory Poole Equipment Company offers high-quality skid steers with the power and speed to support your heavy-duty operations.
Rated operating capacity, also known as lift capacity, refers to the maximum weight a piece of equipment can safely lift and transport. Skid steer ROC indicates how much weight a skid steer can handle while its attachment is at the farthest point from the operator.
ROC is different from the equipment’s full-turn static tipping load (FTSTL), which indicates how much weight a machine can lift with its arms fully extended before tipping over. A skid steer’s ROC is typically a percentage of the FTSTL.
Rated operating capacity is crucial because exceeding this number increases the chance of tipping, and FTSTL is the tipping point that would cause the rear tires to lift off the ground.
Skid steer operating capacity is a vital measurement because it offers the following advantages.
Machinery is more stable when its load weight is within its ROC. Attachments or load materials that exceed the rated operating capacity can potentially reduce your equipment’s balance and increase the risk of tipping over.
Keeping attachments and loads within a piece of equipment’s ROC helps prevent accidents such as tip-overs, struck-by accidents and falling objects. Operators have more precise control over machinery when they keep load weights within the ROC, helping them complete tasks with confidence and safety.
Maintaining the proper ROC also helps prevent equipment damage. Keeping the total load weight within capacity reduces the risk of strain, machine breakdown and component damage.
Rated operating capacity is also important for overall equipment longevity. Handling excessive weight can cause premature component wear, but keeping loads within a safe range can help your equipment last longer and reduce your repair and maintenance costs.
Each skid steer is different, so operating capacities vary. Skid steer models typically range in ROC between 1,400 pounds and over 6,000 pounds.
Manufacturers design and build skid steers for various applications, jobsite conditions and materials, so understanding a machine’s specifications before investing in it is important.
A skid steer’s ROC is typically 50% of its FTSTL, but you shouldn’t need to calculate this because your equipment’s user manual provides the ROC for you.
However, you need to calculate your total load weight because this varies based on your project requirements. Add the following weights together:
Several skid steers offer high lift capacities. If you need a powerful skid steer or track loader for heavy-duty applications, consider the following Cat® models:
Assessing your applications, attachments and materials is essential when choosing a skid steer. Choose a model with an ROC that exceeds your heaviest loads so you are prepared for every project.
Consider renting a skid steer with a higher ROC if you take on projects that require you to handle heavier loads than usual.
The following factors impact the operating capacity of a skid steer track loader.
Larger skid steers and track loaders can handle more weight because of their size and design. They also tend to have more powerful engines that deliver the force needed to lift heavy loads.
Tracked and wheeled skid steers tend to offer different lifting capacities because of weight distribution. Tracks increase ground contact, providing greater weight distribution and enhanced stability for a higher ROC. Wheeled skid steers tend to have lower lifting capacities because of their higher center of gravity.
A skid steer offers either a vertical or a radial lift configuration, and this impacts its lifting capacity. A vertical lift skid steer raises loads straight upward, helping operators perform higher movements and access taller points. Radial lift skid steers move materials at a lower level, keeping loads closer to the ground during operation.
Vertical lifts typically have higher rating capacities than radial lifts because their straight up-and-down motions keep loads close to the equipment for greater stability.
Your attachment typically makes up a significant portion of your total load weight, making it a crucial ROC factor. Each attachment is different, so it’s critical to consider weight when you change machines, attachments or the type of material you handle.
Sloped or uneven terrain increases the risk of tipping because it shifts the machine’s center of gravity. A skid steer’s ROC applies to the machine’s operation on flat ground. Lifting and transporting loads on hills or slopes can significantly lower a skid steer’s lift capacity.
Use the following tips to operate within ROC limits and maintain safety:
At Gregory Poole Equipment Company, we carry a wide selection of skid steers and compact track loaders with various lift capacities to meet your needs.
With over 70 years of experience, we understand what it takes to support the most robust applications. Our experts can help you choose equipment with the ideal ROC based on your application, material, terrain and budget. We also offer rental equipment to help you meet unique or temporary project requirements.
Contact us to learn more about our available equipment.