The counterweight system of the aerial work vehicle is the cornerstone of its safety design, and the core function is to greatly increase the anti-overturning stability of the vehicle in the operating state.Unlike static equipment, when an aerial work vehicle is working, its working platform is constantly lifting, retracting and carrying personnel and tools, and the center of gravity of the load changes dynamically in three-dimensional space, which constitutes a complex overturning torque.Counterweight, usually centrally arranged at the rear end or both sides of the vehicle chassis, balances the forward or roll trend caused by the extended boom and platform load by generating a strong and stable reverse torque.Its design and calculation must fully consider the stability and safety factor of the vehicle under extreme operating conditions such as maximum operating height, maximum operating range, and rated load, so as to ensure that under various allowable operating positions, the stable torque of the vehicle is always greater than the overturning torque, leaving a legal safety margin.
 

The implementation forms of this system are diverse, and there are two common types: fixed counterweight and movable counterweight.The fixed counterweight structure is simple and reliable, and it is rigidly connected to the chassis frame by bolts or welding. It is the choice of most small and medium-sized aerial work vehicles.On the other hand, large or extra-large boom-type aerial work vehicles, due to their wide operating range and large load changes, sometimes use movable counterweights, such as counterweights that can slide or swing laterally.This design allows the counterweight to be retracted when the vehicle is driving to reduce the length of the vehicle, while during operation, the counterweight position is automatically or manually adjusted according to the extension angle and length of the boom to dynamically optimize the arm length of the stable torque and achieve higher stability efficiency.No matter what form it is, the installation firmness and structural integrity of the counterweight block itself cannot tolerate the slightest sloppy.
 

Starting from the level of safe use, operators and managers must be deeply aware of the principle that the counterweight system cannot be changed or destroyed.Any act of increasing, decreasing, removing or changing the position of the counterweight without the permission of the manufacturer is extremely dangerous and strictly prohibited. This will completely destroy the stability calculation basis of the vehicle and may lead to a catastrophic capsizing accident.In daily inspections and regular maintenance, the counterweight and its connection structure should be regarded as key inspection items to confirm that all fixing bolts are not loose, the welds are not cracked, and the counterweight itself is not severely corroded or damaged.When the equipment is transferred or transported, it is also necessary to pay attention to proper protection of the counterweight parts to avoid collisions.Only by paying great attention to the whole chain from design, manufacturing to use and maintenance can the counterweight system truly become the “Dinghai needle” that protects the life and safety of aerial operations.