The maximum load that can be safely lifted, determined by breaking strength divided by the safety factor.

• A. Rated load
• B. Ultimate load
• C. Destructive load
• D. Working load limit

Answer: (D)

The maximum load that can be safely lifted is described by the working load limit. This value is found by dividing the breaking strength of the gear by the safety factor, which creates a safety margin to account for dynamic forces, wear, and real-world conditions. The result is the load you should plan to lift, not the gear’s ultimate strength. For example, if breaking strength is 50,000 pounds and the safety factor is 5, the working load limit is 10,000 pounds. Destructive or ultimate load refers to the strength at which the gear would fail, which is not safe to use. The rated load can be a manufacturer-stated capacity, but the explicit calculation described here defines the working load limit used for safe lifting.