National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) Mobile Crane Practice Exam

What can occur if telescoping boom sections are not extended equally?

1. Increased load capacity

2. Stability is enhanced

3. Longer sections may collapse

4. Improved lift speed

The correct answer is: Longer sections may collapse

When telescoping boom sections are not extended equally, one significant risk is that the longer sections can become unstable and potentially collapse. This occurs because each section of the boom is designed to work in conjunction with the others, ensuring balanced torque and weight distribution. If one section is extended further than the others, it can lead to an uneven distribution of forces along the boom. This imbalance places excessive stress on the longer sections, which can result in structural failure. The collapse of the extended sections not only poses a risk to the load being lifted but also severely impacts the crane's stability and safety during operation. In contrast, if the boom sections are extended evenly, they work together to maintain the integrity and stability of the entire boom structure, thereby enhancing safety and operational effectiveness. Options that suggest increased load capacity, enhanced stability, or improved lift speed do not directly address the critical issue of structural integrity that can arise from unequal extension of boom sections.