Ground Bearing Calculator
Crane Pad Solutions UK
Ground Bearing Calculator
Check whether a specific outrigger pad keeps ground pressure within safe limits for your site conditions. Ground bearing values aligned with IPAF guidance.
Step 1 of 3
Select CPS 🇬🇧 Outrigger Pad
Choose a pad from our range, or enter custom dimensions to check any pad.
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mm
Tonnes (pad load rating)
Enter the pad's maximum load rating in tonnes if known. Leave blank to check ground bearing only.
Step 2 of 3
Maximum Load Per Outrigger
Use the maximum outrigger load from your crane's load chart at the intended radius. If unsure, divide gross vehicle weight by the number of outriggers.
Tonnes
Step 3 of 3
Ground Type
Select the ground type at your outrigger positions. Use the weakest type if conditions vary across the site.
Concrete, Tarmac or Rock
Hard standing, roads, car parks — 400 kN/m²
Dense Gravel or Hardcore
Well compacted hardcore or gravel — 400 kN/m²
Compact Sand or Stiff Clay
Compacted sand, stiff dry clay — 300 kN/m²
Loose Gravel or Firm Clay
Loose gravel, firm clay soil — 150 kN/m²
Medium Sand
Medium density natural sand — 100 kN/m²
Soft Clay, Silt or Topsoil
Soft clay, silt, grass, topsoil — 75 kN/m²
Loose Sand or Made Ground
Loose sand, fill, suspect bearing — 50 kN/m²
Not Sure
Conservative 50 kN/m² default used
No single pad in our current range meets this load and ground combination. For heavier loads or softer ground, consider our modular crane mat systems which provide larger bearing areas. Call us on 07752 806706 with your crane model and site details, or email us and we will advise on the right solution for your lift.
Disclaimer: This calculator provides indicative guidance only based on IPAF ground bearing values. It does not replace a lift plan, crane manufacturer instructions or assessment by a qualified Appointed Person. Ground conditions can vary significantly across a site and should be verified before lifting operations begin. For project specific advice, call 07752 806706.