Work out push pull force limit instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.
Push and pull force is the load's weight multiplied by rolling resistance, which depends on wheel type and floor surface: about 0.02 for large pneumatic wheels on smooth concrete and 0.15 or worse for small castors on carpet or uneven ground. Starting force is roughly twice the sustained force, and it is the starting force that must stay within acceptable limits.
Sustained force
F = mass x 9.807 x rolling resistance coefficient
Initial force
F initial = sustained force x initial to sustained ratio, typically 2
Preliminary estimate only. Push and pull assessment should use measured forces and a recognised guideline such as the psychophysical tables for the working population.
F = mass x 9.807 x rolling resistance coefficient. Push and pull force is the load's weight multiplied by rolling resistance, which depends on wheel type and floor surface: about 0.02 for large pneumatic wheels on smooth concrete and 0.15 or worse for small castors on carpet or uneven ground.
Bigger, harder wheels and a smoother floor. Wheel diameter and floor condition change rolling resistance by a factor of five or more, far outweighing any change in handle design.
This calculator takes 4 inputs: Mass of the load and trolley, Rolling resistance coefficient, Initial to sustained force ratio, Acceptable force for the population. The pre-filled defaults are a realistic worked example — replace them with your own site or project figures.