What governs the performance of load ratings in cranes?

Load ratings in cranes are primarily governed by stability because the safety and operational efficiency of the lifting process depend on how well the crane can maintain balance while lifting. When a load is raised, the center of gravity shifts, which can affect the crane's stability. Ensuring that the crane does not tip over or lose control is crucial, especially as the load weight and configuration change.

Factors such as the size of the load, the height of the lift, and the length of the boom contribute to the overall operation but they do not directly define the performance related to stability. The crane's load chart takes these variables into account to provide safe operating limits, but at the heart of those limits is the crane’s ability to remain stable under different load conditions. Thus, understanding stability is essential for safe crane operation and load handling.