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 hoistsis 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.
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 radio remote control system, from a pushbutton pendant station, or be semi or fully automated?
Special process cranes
Some cranes are so specialised that there are a limited number of qualified crane suppliers e.g. Explosion Proof Cranes
Below-the-hook attachments
Remember that the crane rarely “touches” your load. It only moves it. Overall productivity can be greatly impacted by how the load is physically connected to the crane. Make sure the crane supplier recommends possible lifting attachments suited to your application.
There is a vast range of useful load interface solutions. In addition to using chain, wire and polyester slings there is a multitude of useful attachments including vacuum lifters, lifting magnets, scissor grabs and clamps, spreader beams and bespoke lifters and manipulators
Our specialist One–Stop design department can offer you valuable assistance in the selection process of not only the right crane for your needs but the below-the-hook attachments as well giving you a valuable insight early on in the buying process.
