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Top 12 Crane and Hoist Terms to Know

Selecting the best crane or hoist equipment for your application is a challenging process. To find equipment that will facilitate safe and efficient operations, it is important to have a thorough understanding of crane terminology, different crane types, parts of a crane, and lifting terms. To help you, here is an overview of the top 12 terms you should know.

C.M.A.A

CMAA LogoC.M.A.A. refers to the Crane Manufacturers Association of America, an independent trade association that establishes and maintains quality and performance standards for electric overhead cranes. Established in 1927 as Electric Overhead Crane Institution, the C.M.A.A. is an internationally recognized authority for crane standards.

Crane Boom

One of the most noticeable crane components is the boom. While a crane boom encompasses a variety of designs and features, it is fundamentally defined as the framework that supports and moves the load.

Critical Load

Critical LoadCritical load refers to a load that requires additional control or support because it approaches the maximum weight capacity. If released or moved without adequate control, a critical load can severely compromise the safety of the system. Critical loads require the use of single failure proof cranes, which ensure adequate operational safety.

Explosion Proof Crane

Explosion proof cranes are specifically designed to contain explosions and prevent heat or sparks from entering the surrounding workspace. They are used for applications where flammable and explosive materials are present, and they are typically divided into Class I, II, and III.

Class I is the most stringent, and these cranes are intended for applications where ignition of highly combustible materials and gases is likely, while Class II cranes are for potentially combustible airborne dust. Class III is the least strict, and these cranes are for applications with potentially ignitable airborne fibers.

Flux Vector Drive

A flux vector drive is a variable frequency drive that is used to monitor and control the speed and direction of the crane’s motor shaft. It allows for a greater degree of control over crane speed and braking by using a closed-loop system and adjustable incremental encoder to monitor the motor shaft during operation.

Hoist

The term “hoist” defines equipment that is used specifically for lifting and lowering loads. Hoisting, by its definition, is the act of raising a load on the vertical plane, and the term is often used in reference to the lifting applications of cranes.

Lift

For cranes, lift refers to the highest point to which a crane’s hook, magnet, or buck can lift a particular weight. Critical load calculations are used to define the lift of a given crane or hoist assembly, depending on the size and configuration of the crane and the weight of the load.

Load Block

Load block is the assembly of crane accessories suspended by the hoisting lines, which includes the hook, swivel, bearings, sheaves, pins, and frame. It is used to lift and move the load, and it monitors the tensile pressure to ensure that the loads remain within lifting capacity.

Overhead Crane

Overhead CraneAn overhead crane is specifically designed to move heavy loads by operating from a fixed overhead structure. They can be operated using a mobile or stationary hoist and mobile bridge. Overhead cranes are available in a variety of designs and configurations.

Single Failure Proof

Single failure proof cranes are engineered to ensure that if one crane component fails, it will not cause the failure of another component within the system. This helps to secure the load, particularly in instances where load failure can have extremely negative effects.

Top Running Crane

Top running cranes are a type of overhead traveling crane that travels along rails supported by single or double girders with truck ends attached to runway support beams. They are capable of carrying loads without limiting capacity and are ideal for load-bearing applications in facilities with limited overhead space.

Wheelbase

The wheelbase of a crane or hoist refers to the distance from center to center of the outermost wheels, measured parallel to the support rail. This measurement can be used to determine carrying capacity.

Contact the Crane and Hoist Experts at American Crane

At American Crane, we have the knowledge and expertise necessary to help you find the perfect mobility solutions for your application. To learn how our crane and hoist equipment can improve your operations, contact us today or request a quote.

Top-Running vs. Under-Running Overhead Cranes

When it comes to overhead cranes, there are several options to choose from, including top-running and under-running. While top-running and under-running overhead cranes are both used to lift and move loads vertically and horizontally, each type offers their own unique advantages. Understanding the differences between these two types of cranes will help you determine which one is best for your needs.

Top-Running Overhead Cranes

Top Running Overhead CranesTop-running overhead cranes run on a fixed rail mounted on top of each runway beam, which allows the end trucks to carry the girder and hoist along the top. These cranes can be set up as a single girder or double girder depending on the application needs. A single girder has a trolley and hoist mounted on the bottom, whereas a double girder uses a top running trolley and hoist, allowing for additional lift height and a higher hook height.

Some key advantages of top-running overhead cranes include:

  • No limiting capacity. This allows for the ability to handle both small and large loads.
  • Added lift height. Being mounted on top of each runway beam allows for increased lift height, which is beneficial to buildings with limited headroom.
  • Built for higher capacities. Top-running overhead cranes are built larger than under-running cranes to grant them the ability to handle higher capacities.
  • Easy installation. Since the crane is supported by the runway beams, it eliminates the suspended load factor to make installation simple.
  • Less maintenance. Over time, top-running overhead cranes do not require as much maintenance other than the routine checking of the tracking for proper alignment and any issues.

Under-Running Overhead Cranes

Under Running Overhead CranesDesigned with flexibility and functionality in mind, under-running overhead cranes have a user-friendly design that provides ultimate versatility for meeting all your production needs. These cranes are also known as underhung cranes because the bottom flange of the runway beam offers support for the wheels to move the bridge across the facility.

The trolley and hoist of an under-running overhead crane move across the bottom flange of the bridge beam, lowering the crane’s hook and lift height. Under-running overhead cranes are usually set up as single girder because a double girder design is often more expensive and not suitable for the application.

Some advantages of under-running overhead cranes include:

  • Operates well in wide bays. Underhung cranes can be operated in multiple runways, reducing the depth of the girder.
  • Lighter overall design requirements. Under-running overhead cranes are much lighter, which removes the need for additional supporting columns that take up precious floor space. Instead, the crane utilizes the existing overhead building structure for support.
  • Lower costs. The lightweight design and use of the existing ceiling trusses or roof structure result in lower equipment costs.
  • Ability for multiple crane installations. It is possible to install under-running cranes next to each other and operate them at the same time for increased production efficiency.

Overhead Cranes at American Crane

It is important to understand the advantages of top-running and under-running overhead cranes to help you select the best option for your production needs. At American Crane, we are a leading manufacturer of cranes, hoists, and other material handling equipment. As a member of the Crane Manufacturers Association of America (CMAA), our team of experts can provide you with an overhead crane solution suited to your project’s specifications. For more information on our capabilities, contact us or request a quote today.

Top 5 Safety Considerations for Crane Operations

Click to ExpandTop 5 Safety Considerations for Crane Operations

There are many facets to crane operation safety, and you can’t afford to ignore any of them. To avoid employee injuries, OSHA fines and lawsuits, and the cost of repairing equipment and property, it is crucial to make the following safety considerations: have a certified and competent crane operator, perform regular inspections of the crane and job sight, abide by load capacities and weight requirements, use equipment properly, and communicate effectively.

Safety Tips

To take a well-rounded approach to crane operation safety, it is important to consider these five safety tips:

    • Have a certified and competent crane operator. Having a fully trained crane operator is the most important safety consideration. Without a qualified operator, it won’t matter how well you address other safety considerations.
    • Perform regular inspections of the crane and job site. It is important to inspect the crane, rigging, and personal safety gear for wear, damage, and functionality. You should also inspect the job site by making sure that the crane is
    • Safety Tips
 on a stable surface and that there are no obstacles in the swing radius or below the crane. Work environments change frequently, so performing these inspections regularly is crucial.
  • Abide by load capacities and weight requirements. All hardware, ropes, and slings have particular weight restrictions, and it is crucial not to exceed them. Overloading your
    equipment could cause the crane to tip or the load to drop, crushing anything beneath it. Overloading equipment can also lead to costly equipment damage.
  • Use equipment properly. Cranes are for vertical lifting, not for dragging or side loading. Using cranes for improper activities puts stress on the turntable, the boom, and the structural members, potentially weakening components and causing equipment failure.
  • Communicate effectively. Use hand signals, radios, or air horns to ensure clear communication between the crane operator and other workers. It is important to make sure that each employee knows what the signals mean to eliminate safety risks and confusion.

Partner with American Crane – Your Expert, Craftsman and Partner for Optimal Safety

Partner with American Crane
Crane safety is extremely important as it provides protection for your workers and business. While these safety considerations are paramount, there are many more to be aware of, and partnering with an expert will help you understand them all. At American Crane, we are a leading manufacturer of standard and custom cranes, hoists, and other material handling equipment, and safety is one of our top priorities. To get started on your crane solution, or to learn more about crane safety, download our service brochure, contact us or request a quote today.

 

Which Type of Overhead Crane Do You Need?

Click to ExpandWhich Type of Overhead Crane Do You Need

There is no one-size-fits-all crane solution. Overhead cranes are as versatile and varied as the jobs they’re built to do, with each crane type designed for specific types of work. For safety, effectiveness, and efficiency, it’s essential to get the right overhead crane for your project. Read on to learn more about types of overhead cranes and how to choose the best one for you.

What Will Be the Overhead Crane’s Purpose?

The first step in determining which overhead crane you need requires understanding the types of lifts you need the crane to do and the environment in which it will operate. Some of the questions you should ask include:

  • What size is the facility?
  • How heavy are the items the overhead crane will be lifting?
  • How many loads must it lift per hour, and how many hours per day will it be in operation?
  • What range of movement does the crane need?
  • What’s the temperature of the facility? Will there be sizeable temperature changes?
  • Will the crane need to tolerate exposure to certain chemicals, gases, moisture, sunlight, rain, wind, dust, or other potentially harmful factors?
  • Will the crane work with explosive or corrosive materials?
  • Will the lifts require rapid, repeatable lifting or slow, precise crane handling?

Top Running Double Girder
Determining these factors will help you to identify the overhead crane best-suited to your application and environment.

The Overhead Crane’s Weight Capacity

Cranes have varying capabilities when it comes to lifting. Each machine has a maximum lifting capacity, which is the heaviest weight that the crane can lift safely. Determining the maximum safe lifting capacity isn’t always as simple as knowing the weight of the lifted items.

For example, say you need to lift a product that weighs five tons. Whether a crane with a five-ton capacity will best suit the job depends on multiple factors. The answers to these questions will help you determine if a five-ton maximum lift capacity is enough:
Overhead Crane’s Weight Capacity

  • How many times a day must the crane lift that five-ton weight?
  • Does every item weigh five tons, or do most of them weigh far less?
  • Will the crane occasionally need to lift something heavier than five tons?
  • Will operational changes or expansions require heavier lifts in the future?

You might want a slightly higher lifting capacity than your maximum lift to stay on the safe side, but there’s also no reason to go too big. Overhead cranes tend to become more expensive as lifting capacity goes up, so going overboard on maximum lift capabilities will ultimately cost unnecessary money. Conversely, barely scraping by on lifting power and overworking the machine will result in expensive repairs or replacements, ultimately driving up costs in the long run.

You also have to consider the crane’s speed requirements and how the load’s weight will affect it. While standard speeds are sufficient for most applications, yours may have unique needs. Maintaining your production output could rely on a crane that can move quickly, with easy loading and unloading. Assembling products may require slower-moving, highly precise crane operation.

Each type of overhead crane has its benefits, and most are customizable to meet specific needs. When trying to determine the best crane for your needs, this general breakdown may help:

  • Overhead bridge cranes have the largest lifting capacity.
  • Double-girder bridge cranes work at high speeds and repeatedly lift heavy loads
  • Overhead gantry cranes offer precision movement

Overhead Cranes from American Crane & Equipment Corporation

With so many considerations, choosing the best overhead crane for you isn’t an easy task, but the team at American Crane can help. As Your Expert, Craftsman and Partner, we’re committed to high-quality products, a safety-first mentality, and customer satisfaction. Our experts will communicate with you to understand your needs and ensure that you receive the best overhead lifting solution for your application.

For assistance with crane selection or more information about our engineering and manufacturing capabilities, please contact us or request a quote today.

CM Lodestar Product Line

The CM Lodestar Electric Chain Hoist sets the standard for industrial grade hoists throughout the industry. Our chain hoists are used in a broad range of industries and applications, both as individual hoists and as component hoists in large-scale mechanical assemblies. Whether you are working on a small scale industrial operation or a large construction project, CM Lodestar’s electric chain hoist can be tailored to meet your needs.

CM Lodestar Electric Chain Hoist Features & Capabilities

CM Hoist Lodestar Electric Chain Hoist
CM Lodestar’s Electric Chain Hoists offer a host of unique features and capabilities that set them apart from other hoist and lift designs. Key features and capabilities include:

Quiet Operation

CM hoists are designed to operate smoothly and quietly, thereby enhancing workplace safety and operator comfort. With noise levels 80% lower than the Classic Lodestar hoist, you won’t have to worry about obtaining soundproofing equipment or material to ensure the safety of your workers.

Less Maintenance and Easy Inspection

Lodestar hoists are exceptionally reliable and efficient. The Heavy Duty DC Brake system includes helical gears, which require less maintenance than traditional designs. Precision gears in the gearbox are lifetime lubricated and the clutch is located outside the gearbox, providing reduced lifetime maintenance and easy component inspection access.

Improved Chain Life

CM Lodestar’s state-of-the-art 5-Pocket Life Wheel offers more load support for chain engagement. This ensures that loads can be lifted more smoothly, with less unwanted vibration, thereby extending the life of your chain. Our Star Grade chain is plated with a zinc protective coating to reduce the potential for corrosion and enhance overall chain service life.

Improved Load Safety

The clutch is located outside the load path, which prevents gear slippage when the brake is not in use. This helps to enhance load safety and reduces the potential for equipment damage due to slippage.

Easy Access Control Panel

The CM Lodestar Electric Chain Hoist is designed with an easy-to-use control panel with finger-safe wiring and plug-and-play connectors for quick terminal access, voltage modifications, and fuse changes.

Environmentally Friendly

The precision gears in the gearbox are lifetime grease lubricated, which reduces the need for regular oil changes and hazardous waste disposal. As an additional environmental benefit, we ship all of our gearboxes and components in recycled material.

CM Lodestar Electric Chain Hoist Industries & Applications

CM Lodestar’s Electric Chain Hoist is a highly versatile option for load-bearing applications in a variety of industries. At American Crane, we offer an extensive selection of Lodestar chain hoists, with capacities from 1 to 10 tons and chain lengths of 10 feet, 15 feet, and 20 feet. With a variety of single- and variable-speed options and both single- and three-phase power options, you are sure to find the exact hoist to accommodate your production speed and lift capacity.

Contact American Crane For Your Electric Chain Hoist Today

At American Crane, We are Your Expert, Craftsman, and Partner. We are dedicated to providing superior quality cranes, hoists, and lifts to meet the needs of nearly any application. To learn more about our selection of CM Lodestar Electric Chain Hoists, and ways they can benefit your operation, request a quote today.

The Four Key Crane Components

Cranes are a type of material handling equipment used to facilitate the movement of bulky or heavy materials around industrial and commercial worksites. While they are available in many designs and configurations to suit different applications, they generally consist of the same four basic components. Each of these components serves a different function that, when combined with those of the other components, enables the crane assembly to lift and position loads as intended.

Below, we provide a more comprehensive overview of each of the four key crane components.

Parts of a Crane

Cranes consist of four key components:

1. Hook

HookThe hook element of a crane is the part that holds or carries the load and connects it to the hoisting element. Due to its function, it experiences a significant amount of wear during operations, which makes it one of the parts that need to be regularly replaced.

2. Hoist

The hoist element of a crane provides the vertical lifting and lowering power. Its lifting and lowering capacity is influenced by its design and construction. For example, chain hoists offer load capacities of ≤5 tons, while wire rope hoists offer load capacities of ≥5 tons. Similarly, hand-powered hoists are suitable for lighter loads, while electric-powered hoists are suitable for heavier loads.

Some cranes feature a main hoist and auxiliary hoist. The former is used to handle heavier loads at slower speeds, while the latter is used to handle lighter loads at faster speeds.

3. Trolley

 TrolleyThe trolley element of a crane provides the horizontal movement power. It is designed to move the hoist and hook components along a track or beam across the top (top-running trolleys) or bottom (bottom-running trolleys) of the bridge component.

Some cranes feature bogies. These short end trucks allow for the placement of multiple wheels at each corner of the crane to ensure more even load distribution.

4. Bridge

The bridge element of a crane is the part that bears the weight of the load and the other crane components (e.g., hook, hoist, and trolley). It runs the entire length of the crane system, allowing the trolley and, consequently, the attached hoist and hook to move horizontally across the worksite.

The bridge consists of large horizontal structural beams—i.e., girders—supported by end trucks. The girders generally have a slight upward vertical curved—i.e., camber—to compensate for the deflection caused by the weight of the load and the other crane components. Depending on the load requirements, the bridge may have a single or double beam configuration. The rectangular cross-section of the girders, trucks, and other members, consisting of two rolled steel side plates and a top and bottom plate, is known as the box section.

ACECO: Your Expert, Craftsman, & Partner for Cranes, Hoists, and Other Material Handling Equipment

Cranes play an essential role in a variety of industrial and commercial applications. However, it is important to choose a design and configuration that accommodates the load and other work requirements of the job site. Otherwise, there is a risk of the unit failing and causing employee injury or equipment damage. If you need assistance selecting and sourcing a crane for your facility, ACECO has got you covered.

At American Crane & Equipment Corporation, we specialize in manufacturing standard and custom cranes, hoists, and other material handling equipment. Equipped with extensive industry experience and highly skilled engineers, we are the ideal expert, craftsman, and partner for all load lifting and positioning needs. To learn more about our products and services or discuss your equipment requirements with one of our team members, contact us or request a quote today.

Crane Inspections: When, How & How Often?

Safety is a crucial factor in any job site. According to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), the Crane Manufacturers Association of America (CMAA), and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), organizations must regularly inspect and maintain their cranes to prevent worksite accidents.

Industrial cranes are responsible for lifting heavy loads. Over time, they experience wear and tear and could break down without routine maintenance, endangering everyone on the worksite. OSHA outlines two types of inspections: frequent and periodic. The inspection checklist for your cranes will depend on the type of inspection performed.

Crane Inspection Requirements

Crane InspectionOSHA standard 1910.179 dictates the requirements for successfully carrying out crane inspections. These requirements include:

  • Cranes should follow a routine inspection schedule to enhance workplace safety.
  • An inspection of the crane should be conducted before its initial use.
  • Once the crane is placed into service, two types of inspections should be carried out, including frequent and periodic inspections.
  • Only a qualified OSHA inspector can perform crane inspections.

Frequent Vs. Periodic Inspections

Frequent Vs. Periodic InspectionsIt is critical that cranes be inspected more than once per year. For this reason, OSHA 1910.179 dictates two categories of overhead crane inspections based on the intervals at which the inspections should be performed. These intervals depend on the nature of critical crane components and the extent of their exposure to deterioration, wear, or malfunction. The two classifications of crane inspections are frequent and periodic.

Frequent Inspections

Frequent inspections are performed daily or at monthly intervals. The checklist for this type of inspection includes:

  • Maladjustments interfering with the proper operation of the crane
  • Deterioration or leakage in pumps, hydraulic systems, lines, valves, or tanks
  • Deformed or cracked hooks
  • Defective hoist chains
  • Faulty wire rope reeving system
  • Extreme wear of components

Periodic Inspections

Periodic inspections are performed in monthly intervals throughout the year. The checklist for this type of inspection includes:

  • Worn tires
  • Deterioration of chain drive sprockets
  • Faulty or unsafe power plants
  • Wear on brake and clutch systems
  • Loose bearings or rivets
  • Deterioration in electrical apparatus such as limit switches, push-button stations, and controller contactors
  • Overstretch of chains
  • Inaccuracy in indicators
  • Distorted bearings

Crane Inspections at American Crane

A routine crane inspection and maintenance schedule is crucial to ensure workplace safety. At American Crane and Equipment Corporation, We are Your Expert, Craftsman, and Partner as well as a leading manufacturer of cranes, hoists, and other material handling equipment.

American Crane’s service and parts department can offer services including OSHA and other crane inspections. Our certified technicians can ensure that your cranes meet all current standards and codes, assuring complete compliance with OSHA requirements. For more information, or for help with your crane inspection needs, contact us or request a quote today.

Why Is the CMAA Important?

CMAA Green LogoIn 1927, some of the country’s top crane manufacturers established guidelines for standardization in the quality and performance of cranes. They created the Electric Overhead Crane Institute (EOCI) to advocate for the safe operation of crane equipment and other products. Over the years, that organization evolved into the Crane Manufacturing Association of America, Inc. (CMAA).

As an independent trade association, CMAA is affiliated with the Material Handling Industry (MHI). It works to develop crane classifications, engineering specifications, inspection requirements, and maintenance factors while promoting education and professional development for members and advocating for safety within the industry.

CMAA Ensures Safety

Workplace accidents and injuries will always be a concern when working with cranes and other heavy equipment, but together we can all do more to prevent them. OSHA, via the CHM Alliance, works with a variety of organizations, including unions, trade organizations, businesses, faith- and community-based groups, and more, to create a culture of safety where employers take all necessary precautions and employees feel empowered to speak up about safety concerns.

The goal of these partnerships is to educate people about their rights and responsibilities regarding safety. They develop and provide compliance tools and educational resources.

CMAA Determines Inspection Requirements

Safety starts with equipment that works properly. The CMAA crane classifications help people choose the overhead hoist that is right for the job. This ensures the proper fit and speed related to what you’re lifting.

After you have the right hoist, you need to make sure it’s in working order every day. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), and the Hoist Manufacturers Institute (HMI) all dictate regular overhead hoist inspections, which allow you to identify any problems with the equipment before you use it.

Hoist inspections are not to be performed by anyone without the proper training. That formal education should include training in operations, crane safety codes along with federal, state, and local regulations, crane and overhead hoist terminology, and how to document findings. The CMAA specifies that crane inspectors need a minimum of 2,000 field experience hours in maintenance, servicing and repairing, and testing and modifying cranes and hoists.

Maintenance Factors Are Established by CMAA

Each type of hoist has its own set of guidelines for maintenance as set by the CMAA, and OSHA and ANSI outline when cranes should be inspected:

  • Initial:New and altered cranes must be inspected to ensure compliance with regulations.
  • Functional:Cranes should be inspected before every shift. Following a daily hoist inspection checklist ensures you don’t forget anything or grow complacent with the inspection.
  • Frequent:These inspections include everything in the functional inspection as well as operating mechanisms. These are performed more often if the crane is in heavy use.
  • Periodic:The frequency of these in-depth inspections also depends upon how heavily the crane is used, which may be annually or quarterly. Some states require more frequent periodic inspections, no matter how often the crane is used. California, for example, requires quarterly inspections.

Your daily hoist inspection checklist will help you discover any damages and concerns like excessive wear, shiny surfaces, corrosion, leaking engines or cylinders, or blistering hoses. These may indicate you need maintenance or repair, which is essential to keep your crane running safely.

CMAA Members Respond in Crisis Situations

Now more than ever, the companies of the MHI Overhead Alliance are committed to their employees and communities. These uncertain times have called for continual evaluation and consideration to make sure everyone is doing everything they can to help.

CMAA has been supporting those customers serving at the front lines of the pandemic. Communication efforts have increased, particularly email from key leaders, project managers, and account managers, to keep people posted about projects and operations, all of which are moving forward. Members have stepped up to fulfill vital needs, including the design and customization of overhead handling equipment to be used for producing life-saving medical equipment. Various suppliers have fulfilled emergency deliveries of parts for crane maintenance and repair. Others have focused on charitable outreach by donating PPE to local hospitals and sending funds to non-profit organizations.

CMAA recognizes the vulnerability of the community at this strange and sensitive time. They want to help, and they will continue to identify ways to do so. Moving through the crisis means moving through it together.

American Crane is a member of the Crane Manufacturing Association of America, and we’re proud to be part of an organization that prioritizes crane and hoist safety and steps up to serve the community in difficult times.

As your Expert, Craftsman, and Partner in cranes and equipment, our primary objective is to make your job easier with turnkey material handling solutions for nuclear, aerospace, energy, and general manufacturing applications. Our integrated approach, in-house resources, depth of capabilities, and years of experience allow us to provide high-quality solutions with friendly, prompt service. Contact us to learn more.

Top 3 Major Crane Hazards and How to Avoid Them

In the manufacturing and construction industries, overhead cranes lift and transport necessary materials for a wide range of applications. When installed and used properly, these systems facilitate safer, more efficient operations. However, improper installation and usage can cause accidents that result in severe injury to life and limb. The key to preventing these incidents is recognizing their sources so industry professionals can better understand how to avoid them.

The following blog post outlines the four major hazards related to crane installation and usage and the recommended safety procedures to circumvent them.

Crane Hazards

Common Crane Hazards

Most overhead crane accidents stem from one of four major causes:

1. Excessive Load

OSHA estimates that 80% of all crane accidents and failures result from exceeding the rated capacity of the crane. Overloading can cause significant damage to the crane, decreasing its structural integrity and often leading to complete failure. Once these occur, crane operators and nearby personnel can be injured by falling or failing parts.

Overloading may occur in several different ways:

  • Handling a load heavier than the crane’s capacity
  • Swinging, dragging, or suddenly dropping a load
  • Side-loading a boom (Any time the load’s center of gravity is not directly under the crane.)

For crane operators, understanding these leading causes of overloading and how to avoid them necessitates comprehensive training. A typical training regimen may include imparting knowledge about the principles of load handling and hoisting capacities for various conditions and operating conditions.

2. Falling Materials

In the workplace or at a jobsite, falling materials can cause significant injuries or fatalities. These incidents can occur due to many reasons, such as:

  • Visual impairment
  • Improper or inadequate rigging of materials
  • Mechanical failure
  • Ill-timed movement of materials
  • Operator incompetence

Most, if not all, causes of falling materials can be avoided through the careful operation of the crane, which is facilitated by employing well-trained and qualified crane operators.

3. Insufficient Inspection and Maintenance

Through use in operations, loading bearing equipment experiences damage that can affect performance. This damage can take the form of worn-out ropes, electrical wires, and structural components. As these systems play a critical role in lifting and transporting heavy materials, ensuring they are in proper working order through regular inspection is essential to preventing employee injuries and fatalities.

As outlined by the Crane Manufacturer’s Association of America (CMAA), crane inspectors should have the following:

  • At least 2,000 hours of experience inspecting, maintain, repairing, and testing cranes and hoist equipment
  • Knowledge of safety and design standards; federal, state, and local codes; and safe operating practices
  • Understanding of proper reporting and documentation protocols

There are four types of inspections, some performed by a crane inspector and some by the operating personnel:

  • Initial Inspection: OSHA 1910.179requires an initial inspection for all new and altered cranes.
  • Pre-shift Inspection: It is advisable to do an inspection every time there is a change in the crane operating crew, such as when a new shift starts.
  • Frequent Inspection: These are done by certified inspectors. The frequency of these inspections varies with the type, size, and capacity of the crane.
  • Periodic Inspection: These are detailed visual inspections and operational checks that cover every part of the crane.

Partnering With American Crane

At American Crane & Equipment Corporation (ACECO), we provide a wide range of material handling equipment, including overhead cranes, for a diverse set of industries including aerospace, automotive, construction, marine, mining, and waste processing. As a leading manufacturer of high-quality standard and custom systems, we fully understand the nuances of safe and efficient crane operations and make sure to adhere to all CMAA Guidelines. To learn more about how to identify and avoid common crane hazards, contact us today.

To Replace or To Rebuild: What is Best for Your Crane & Equipment?

Dependable equipment is critical to your business. It keeps processes running, protects materials, and increases employee safety. Forklifts must be well-balanced and overhead cranes must be sturdy and steady enough to lift heavy loads. Unfortunately, in spite of safety standards, cranes are often pushed beyond their limits. Like all equipment, cranes wear down over time, and as they do, their capacity decreases.

What can you do when your overhead crane is no longer up for the work you need it to do? You can replace your crane or you can rebuild it. In this blog post, we’ll look of the benefits and drawbacks of each solution to help you make the best decision for your company.

 

Why Replace?

In the short run, it’s tempting to opt for the quicker, less expensive option of repairing equipment as issues arise. Depending on the cause of the problem, however, however, these up-front savings could impact your crane’s long-term performance and reduce employee safety over the long haul.

Here are some signs it’s time to allocate funds for a new crane:

  • Safety issues. Don’t compromise on employee safety. Track the frequency of injuries and breakdowns, especially if you can’t pinpoint the cause of these problems. If you’re not sure whether these issues are substantial enough to require a replacement, contact a professional to inspect your crane and make a recommendation.
  • Repeated repairs.An occasional repair doesn’t mean it’s time to scrap your crane. However, if repairs are becoming a regular ritual or each fix just seems to lead to more problems, it’s probably time to either replace your crane or replace key parts.
  • Decreasing efficiency.Take a look at your crane’s performance data. Has its speed or weight-bearing ability dropped over time? Has operating the crane become more difficult for your workers? While these changes might seem minor at first, they can ultimately affect the effectiveness and profitability of your operation.
  • Expired warranties.If the warranty on a part or system has expired, its best days are probably behind it. Many parts also have manufacturer-recommended replacement timelines. It’s best to replace expired components as soon as possible.

Why Rebuild?

If your crane is structurally strong and free of deterioration or damage, rebuilding could extend its life without sacrificing safety or effectiveness. An overhaul or upgrade might be all you need to minimize malfunctions, increase dependability, comply with safety standards, and protect your operators.

Here are some situations where an otherwise sound crane might be a good candidate for repair/rebuild.

Why Rebuild?

  • Insufficient capacity. Older cranes had limited weight capacities, but technology improvements
    over the past couple of decades mean that many older cranes can be retrofitted to handle heavier loads.
  • A specific system has broken down.Individual crane systems deteriorate over time. Once-adequate systems might also no longer be up to the demands of modern manufacturing. By updating lift, drive control, hydraulic, computer, or other systems, you could give an otherwise sound crane many more good years.
  • Safety features have worn down. Railings, walkways, steps, ladders, and other safety features may wear out long before your crane does. Upgrading these features allows you to continue using your crane while still complying with relevant safety standards.

Crane Repair and Replacement From American Crane

The experts at American Crane are ready to help you find the optimal overhead lifting solution for your facility. We offer an extensive range of repair services, or if you think it may be time to replace your overhead crane we’ll schedule a professional consultation with our crane technicians and evaluators. Please contact us with any questions or concerns about repair or replacement.

Want to read more? Download our Crane Buyers Guide to learn more about the upgrades or replacements we offer for your applications.