Estimate design-life working cycles and a transparent load-spectrum factor to prepare inputs for the AS 5246.1 crane-classification process.
“The crane will run for 20 years with a mix of light and heavy lifts. What cycle count and load spectrum should I take into the duty-classification review?”
N = years × days/year × shifts/day × hours/shift × cycles/hourq_i = share_i / ΣshareK_p = Σ q_i (load ratio_i)³N_eq = N × K_pInterpretation aid only — not a normative classification.
The final AS 5246.1 classification is deliberately not reproduced or assigned by this calculator.
Build a transparent design-life cycle count from the intended operating pattern.
Split the expected cycles into representative load bands. The tool normalises the shares for calculation if they do not total 100%.
Non-normative interpretation aid only.
Use these inputs with the applicable AS 5246.1 classification process and the relevant crane/product Standard. This tool deliberately does not assign the final normative class.
Different crane structures and mechanisms can experience different numbers of cycles, load spectra and displacements. Travel, hoist, slewing and other mechanisms may need separate classification inputs.
AS 1418.1 directs crane classification to AS 5246.1. This calculator only prepares working-cycle and load-spectrum inputs. It does not reproduce the classification tables, account for average displacement effects or assign a final usage/load-spectrum group.
Copy a permalink that reloads these inputs, or download a PDF record with inputs, visible results, assumptions, a sensitivity note, date and disclaimer.
Crane duty is driven by how often the crane works and how heavily it is loaded, not just by rated capacity. Making the cycle and load-spectrum assumptions explicit is the first step toward a defensible classification basis.
The calculator does not assign a final normative crane or mechanism class. AS 1418.1 directs classification to AS 5246.1, and final classification can also depend on average displacements, mechanism-specific duty and the applicable crane product Standard.
Confirm the actual equipment, loading, materials, condition, jurisdiction, contractual requirements, standard edition and current project documentation before using the result for design, repair, testing or lifting decisions.
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