Important Information on Overhead Cranes

Choosing The Right Crane Selecting the right type of crane requires some careful consideration. Think about the working envelope to be covered by the crane and will it lift everthing you want now and in the future. To help you decide what type of crane you need visit our specialist website www.lightcranes.co.uk. Why not write down what you expect your new crane to do. Points to consider: Maximum lifting capacity (Working load limit) Weight of the average load (Safe working load) that the crane will need to lift How many loads you expect that will need to be lifted (Duty) per hour, per shift, shifts per day, days per week. What speed of lift will be needed an additional slower speed would be useful for guiding the load precisely. What are the typical travel distances and how fast must the crane move those distances. Will you need creep (inching) speed in addition to the normal traversing and down shop speeds Use this information to obtain a clear indication of your requirements and an understanding of crane classifications The key point is that crane lifting capacity is completely independent from its service classification. Types of cranes The types of cranes include Jib cranes, demountable davit cranes, work station cranes, under running and top running, single and double girder cranes, and gantry cranes (Goliath) and mobile gantries It is advisable first to become familiar with the various types of cranes to determine what type(s) will fit the application. Types of hoists The hoist type and brand will likely be an important consideration, understanding the basic choices among manual, electric chain hoists, electric wire rope hoists or air powered hoists is recommended. Structural components Cranes are made from welded steel plates and steel sections. The more steel that’s used, the heavier and more expensive the crane will be. By careful consideration of the service classification, you can control some of the structural design elements that affect the crane weight and cost. Heavier duty cranes will more regular maintenance. Your crane will require a minimum inspection period of 12 months under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER). Don’t overlook the benefits of a maintenance contract. Adding a fall arrest system and service walkways to the crane that will give maintenance personnel a safer work environment to perform more thorough inspections and reduce maintenance downtime. Mechanical components Crane service classification can affect everything from the crane hook to the bridge buffers and all components in between. Take time to discuss key components with the crane supplier to be sure they are suitable for your application and budget. Electrical components A bad motor makes a crane useless. Be comfortable with the type and rating of motors to be sure they are properly applied to your crane. Generally, a totally enclosed frame is desired. The larger the motor frame, the more heat it can dissipate. A bad brake makes a crane dangerous. Be sure that the crane supplier is properly sizing the motor brakes for the service class and application. Motor controls The latest variable frequency drive technology allows excellent crane positioning and speed control. However, some crane operating environments are not friendly to solid state electronic control systems. Understand the differences between available control systems and take into account possible life-cycle costs to maintain them. Electricity Supply Most electrically powered cranes run on 400V 3phase 50Hz. Howrever, there a few hoists on the market running on 240V and 110V 1phase 50HZ. There are numerous mains feed systems on the market from basic taut wire festoons to state-of-the-art fully enclosed multi-pole conductor systems. Operator controls Crane operations can be operated from a ra

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