What's the min power needed for a DC motor to move 5K lbs?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on determining the minimal power required for a DC motor to move a load of 5,000 lbs in an electric vehicle designed for warehouse use. The vehicle must achieve speeds of up to 10 MPH and navigate an incline of 8-10%. Participants suggest that a motor power of 6 to 8 kW may be insufficient for this task, with recommendations leaning towards using standard vehicles like golf carts or forklifts instead. The conversation highlights the potential liability issues associated with building a custom vehicle for heavy loads.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of DC motor specifications and power requirements
  • Knowledge of vehicle dynamics and load calculations
  • Familiarity with incline grades and their impact on vehicle performance
  • Awareness of safety regulations and liability considerations in vehicle design
NEXT STEPS
  • Research DC motor power calculations for heavy loads
  • Explore vehicle design principles for electric carts
  • Investigate standard electric vehicles suitable for heavy lifting
  • Review safety regulations and liability insurance for custom vehicle projects
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, vehicle designers, warehouse managers, and anyone involved in the development of electric vehicles for heavy-duty applications.

George Stann
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I am making a some sort of an electric vehicle (cart) that will be used to move things around the two story warehouse.
I am trying to figure out what would be the minimal power of an a DC motor, considering that the max speeds will be up to 10 MPH, while being able to push forward to the second floor, using a regular vehicle driveway with a grade of about 8-10%.
Would 6 or 8 KW be enough?
 
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George Stann said:
I am making a some sort of an electric vehicle (cart) that will be used to move things around the two story warehouse.
I am trying to figure out what would be the minimal power of an a DC motor, considering that the max speeds will be up to 10 MPH, while being able to push forward to the second floor, using a regular vehicle driveway with a grade of about 8-10%.
Would 6 or 8 KW be enough?
Welcome to the PF.

Why not just use a standard golf cart? I guess that 5000 pounds is a pretty big trailer load for a golf cart, though. What other standard vehicles have you looked into? Making your own opens up some pretty serious liability issues that your company's insurance company may not be too happy about...
 
That sounds like a forklift and a pretty substantial one at that. I agree with Berkeman - I don't think this is something that would be a good idea to try to make yourself.
 
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