Tower Crane Foundation Design Calculation Example Link Here

Crane load (vertical) = 850 kN
Self-weight = 750 kN
Total V = 1,600 kN


To fix this, we must increase the width to reduce eccentricity and increase weight. Let's try a 22 ft x 22 ft x 6 ft foundation.

Result: $2.56 \text ft < 3.67 \text ft$. Stable. The entire base is in compression. tower crane foundation design calculation example link

Calculate Maximum Bearing Pressure ($q_max$): Since $e < B/6$, we use the standard formula for combined axial and bending stress: $$q_max = \fracPA + \fracMZ$$ Where $A$ is area ($22 \times 22 = 484 \text ft^2$) and $Z$ is section modulus ($B^2 \times L / 6$... wait, $Z = L \times B^2 / 6$). $Z = 22 \times 22^2 / 6 = 1,774.6 \text ft^3$.

$$q_max = \frac585.6484 + \frac1,5001,774.6$$ $$q_max = 1.21 + 0.85 = \mathbf2.06 \text ksf$$ Crane load (vertical) = 850 kN Self-weight =

Comparison: $$2.06 \text ksf < 3.0 \text ksf (SBC)$$ Pass. The soil can safely support this foundation.

The above tower crane foundation design calculation example is simplified. In real projects, you must also check: To fix this, we must increase the width


Some cities (e.g., Dubai Municipality, London Building Control) publish approved tower crane foundation calculation sheets as part of temporary works guidance.


The crane manufacturer typically provides "Loads on Foundation." These are the forces transmitted through the base of the mast.

  • Horizontal Load ($H$):
  • Moment ($M$):