An overhead crane is basically a machine that is used in lowering or lifting a load. The crane can also move the loads horizontally (depending on the type). A hoisting mechanism acts as an integral part that helps the machine perform its tasks effectively. Many industries across the globe use overhead cranes to move their heavy or oversized objects and it saves them time and money whilst improving productivity.
Additionally, the cranes feature a railed support structure called the ‘bridge’, which has a wheeled trolley, which can move horizontally. The hoist is another crucial component in an overhead crane. The work of the hoist is to perform any desired lifts. Some of the various overhead cranes include semi-gantry, gantry, storage bridge, wall cranes and cantilever gantry.
What are the requirements for crane maintenance?
Every manufacturer will come up with a preventive maintenance program for any machines produced. You can never underestimate the importance of overhead crane repair, for example, because one problem could lead to huge safety issues and breaches, so maintenance really is everything and the manufacturers know this. Additionally, any unsafe conditions or deteriorated components detected before the crane is used must be checked and repaired. Any manufacturing company that takes pride in offering high quality, valuable and effective products and services must understand the safety, preventive maintenance, rules and regulations and the industries desired practices.
Regular inspection and maintenance or repair should be carried as provided in the instructions of the manufacturer. The maintenance should be carried out by a competent individual or organisation. The professional inspecting or maintaining the overhead crane must also be fully certified. Routine maintenance inspection can be done monthly, quarterly, weekly or even daily depending on the functionality of the crane, but it’s always best to check with your manufacturer first or ask a professional to advise you.
The maintenance must include all of the following as a sheer minimum:
• Checking the emergency or safety switches and interlocks.
• Lubricating all the moving parts.
• Verification of the accuracy of the load moment indicator as well as the rated capacity indicator.
• Checking the crane controls and functions for smoothness of operation, speed, and limits of motions.
Conclusion
Cranes must be routinely maintained and inspected to ensure that they are effective in all of the work they are designed to do. This prevents the crane from deteriorating through any damages or corrosion. That said, it’s up to you to take control of the situation and ensure your employees are safe at all times, and ensuring your using a professional repairman for issues or maintenance tasks on a regular basis is a very good place to start. We also recommend you learn more about the equipment you’re using and train staff so that they can identify problems before they become too large. The more you know about the equipment and the way it works, the better and it will allow for good communication between crane service teams and your staff.