Archive: Jul 2024

Why Crane Inspections Are Crucial

Safety is a main concern on any job site. At American Crane & Equipment Corporation, we understand the importance of maintaining the highest safety standards to protect your team and equipment. According to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), the Crane Manufacturers Association of America (CMAA) and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), regular crane inspections and maintenance are essential to prevent worksite accidents and ensure optimal performance. Keep reading to find out why crane inspections are so crucial.

Industrial cranes are indispensable for lifting heavy loads, but over time they can suffer from wear and tear, increasing the risk of breakdowns and accidents. To mitigate these risks, OSHA has established comprehensive inspection requirements for cranes under standard 1910.179. These inspections are designed to identify potential issues before they escalate, ensuring both the safety of your workers and the longevity of your equipment.

Types of Crane Inspections

OSHA outlines two main types of crane inspections: frequent and periodic. Each type of inspection serves a specific purpose and follows a different schedule.

Frequent Inspections

Frequent Inspections are conducted daily to monthly, depending on the crane’s usage and operational environment. These inspections focus on critical components that are prone to rapid deterioration or frequent use. Key items on the checklist for frequent inspections include:

• Maladjustments affecting the crane’s operation
• Deterioration or leaks in hydraulic systems, pumps, lines, valves, or tanks
• Deformed or cracked hooks
• Defective hoist chains
• Faulty wire rope reeving systems
• Excessive wear of components

Periodic Inspections

Periodic inspections occur at regular intervals throughout the year, typically monthly to quarterly. These inspections are more thorough and cover components that are less likely to fail suddenly but require regular monitoring. The checklist for periodic inspections 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, including limit switches, push-button stations, and controller contractors
• Overstretched chains
• Inaccuracy in indicators
• Distorted bearings

American Crane’s Inspection Services

At American Crane, we offer comprehensive crane inspection services to ensure your equipment meets all OSHA standards and regulations. Our certified technicians perform both frequent and periodic inspections, providing detailed reports and recommendations to keep your cranes in top condition.

By partnering with us, you can be confident that your equipment will operate safely and efficiently, minimizing downtime and enhancing productivity. Our service and parts department is equipped to handle all aspects of crane maintenance, ensuring complete compliance with current safety codes.

At American Crane, we are your expert, craftsman, and partner in ensuring the safety and reliability of your material handling equipment. For more information on our crane inspection services or to request a quote, please contact us today.

How to Choose the Right Crane for Your Needs

Selecting the right crane for your needs can be a complex and time-consuming task. With a variety of cranes and hoists available on the market, understanding the key factors that influence your decision is crucial. Here are six essential considerations to help you make an informed choice for your crane and hoist combination.

1.   The Load

Understanding the load is fundamental. Key details include the loads dimensions, weight, surface characteristics, material, and fragility. Additionally, consider the load’s condition during handling (e.g., wet, dry, oily). If multiple types of loads need to be handled, you might require different crane and hoist combinations.

2.   Frequency of Use

The frequency and intensity of use, known as Duty Cycle Requirements, significantly impact the type of crane you need. Cranes are classified into six service classes, from Class A (Standby or Infrequent Service) to Class F (Continuous Severe Service). Selecting equipment designed for your specific service class ensures safety and longevity.

3.   Required Speed

The speed at which the crane travels and the hoist lifts and lowers is critical for operational efficiency. Ensure the crane’s speed aligns with your production processes to maintain a smooth workflow without compromising safety.

4.   Operating Environment

Crane and hoist systems can be used in various environments, both indoor and outdoor. Consider factors such as temperature, humidity, dust, hazardous conditions, and exposure to chemicals. Depending on the environment, you might need a custom crane and hoist solution to enhance reliability and service life.

5.   Expected Longevity

Routine maintenance is essential for the safe and reliable operation of cranes and hoists. Consider how often you want the equipment to run between servicing, the need for component replacements, and the overall lifespan. A well-maintained system ensures prolonged operation and reduces downtime.

6.   Budget

While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, a properly engineered crane and hoist system is often more cost-effective in the long run. Consider the total cost of ownership, including installation, spare parts, maintenance agreements, and service contracts. Investing in quality equipment reduces operational issues and enhances safety.

Additional Resources

For further guidance, several buyer’s guides can help you specify the right crane and hoist. The Crane Manufacturers Association of American (CMAA) publishes comprehensive resources detailing design safety standards and specifications. These guides are available for free download from American Crane’s online Resource Center.

American Crane also offers tailored publications: “How to Choose the Right Crane: A Crane Buyer’s Guide” and “How to Choose the Right Hoist: A Hoist Buyer’s Guide.” These documents provide a broader perspective on crane and hoist selection and are ideal for both novice and experienced buyers.

Your Expert, Craftsman and Partner

Leveraging the knowledge of experienced professionals is invaluable. Suppliers, manufacturers, and vendors with extensive expertise can help you evaluate your overhead handling options and determine the optimal solution for your needs. At American Crane, we are your expert, craftsman and partner – ready to assist you in finding the best crane and hoist combination. Connect with a project specialist today to get started on your investment journey.

By considering these factors and utilizing available resources, you can confidently choose the right crane for specific needs, ensuring safety, efficiency, and long-term reliability.