Purchasing suitable types of overhead cranes is a matter not to be taken lightly. Installing an overhead crane is usually a long-term investment that consumes considerable monetary resources as well as time. The money and time spent are recouped by improved plant management, increased plant capacity and improved worker safety. However, these and many more advantages can only be attained by choosing the best system for a plant specific needs. This is not possible, even in the slightest bit if you do not acquaint yourself with the various crane systems that are available, the advantages, capacity and limitations of each of the various available.
Herein is a guide on how to go about choosing an overhead crane that suits your every need.
Understand The Types Of Crane That Exists
There are generally two configurations offered for overhead crane:
#1. The under running crane ?In this configuration, the end truck runs on the top side of the runway beam. This configuration is best deployed in instances where the headroom is of major concern and or the crane needs to lift heavy loads.
#2. The top running crane ?This configuration is characterized by the end truck being placed on the lower beam on it flanges. The configuration is cost effective and easier to guide the host but sacrifices the headroom and load capacity.
#3. Jib cranes
#4. Gantry cranes
Understanding Your Needs
After acquainting yourself with the various systems, you should assess your need and circumstances. For instance, circumstances are different if you are installing cranes in an existing structure as opposed to installing the crane in a new structure. This is primarily due to the overhead room requirements of the various systems.
You should also assess the type of load that you may want to lift with the crane. Ideally, the crane should be able to handle load above your estimated needs. The results of this assessment will help you determine the load capacity of the crane to purchase. Also, it will help you determine the best system to acquire.
Beyond the service capacity of the cranes, you should look into the structural components of the prospective cranes. The structural components of cranes should be able to handle the load needs and also be of appropriate weight, especially if you intend to move the crane in the future. To this end, there is a choice of steel or aluminum crane. Steel cranes are able to handle more weight, but their downside is that they are very heavy. Aluminum cranes are lighter but have a limited service load.
Finally, you should analyze your automation needs. If you want to have a reduce labor force, you should consider going for the electric intensive overhead cranes. These cranes can be operated with as little as one or two people. However, they are more expensive. Mechanical versions are the better option if you intend to have little energy consumption by the crane.
Choosing an inappropriate crane can be costly in the long run. Moreover, the crane may pose safety risks, especially if the crane in question does not have the capacity to meet the demands of the tasks it should handle.
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