Archive: Jul 2024

Supporting the Aerospace & Aviation Industries with ACECO

At American Crane & Equipment Corporation (ACECO), we take pride in our extensive experience and expertise in providing state-of-the-art material handling equipment for the aerospace and aviation industries. Our commitment to delivering tailored solutions ensures that every project, no matter how complex or critical, is handled with the utmost precision, safety, and efficiency.

Specialized Solutions for Aerospace & Aviation

The aerospace and aviation sectors demand specialized equipment capable of handling sensitive and high-value components. Whether you are manufacturing aircraft, constructing rocket satellites, or performing maintenance on flight components, ACECO has the right material handling solutions for your needs.

Our Products:

• Standard Cranes: Designed for everyday tasks, these cranes offer reliability and efficiency.
• Critical Lift Cranes: Engineered for high-stakes applications where safety and precision are paramount.
• Cleanroom Cranes: Ideal for environments that require stringent contamination control.
• Custom Cranes: Tailored to meet specific requirements, ensuring optimal performance in unique applications.

Enhancing Performance and Safety

ACECO’s equipment can be customized with a variety of features to enhance safety and performance.

• Redundant Hoist Reeving Systems: Ensure load stability and safety.
• Overspeed and Misreeving Protection Mechanisms: Prevent operational errors and accidents.
• Emergency Hoist Brakes: Provide immediate stopping capability in critical solutions.
• Precision Control Systems: Enable accurate positioning and movement of sensitive loads.
• Remote Operator Stations: Allow for safe and efficient operation from a distance.
• EMI Filters: Protect equipment from electromagnetic interference.

Total Project Capabilities

Our comprehensive capabilities ensure that we can support your project from start to finish. ACECO’s equipment is designed to handle a wide range of tasks, including:

• Assembling Aircraft: Facilitating the construction of large and complex aircraft components.
• Carrying Loads Over Turbines: Ensuring safe and precise movement of heavy loads over critical infrastructure.
• Handling Time-Sensitive Loads: Supporting the manufacturing of space flight hardware where timing is crucial.
• Transporting High-Value Satellites: Safely moving delicate and valuable aerospace assets.

Why Overhead Cranes Are Crucial for Aerospace

The aerospace industry requires specialized material handling solutions that standard equipment cannot provide. Overhead cranes, engineered specifically for aerospace applications, offer the precision, reliability, and adaptability needed to handle everything from delicate composite materials to robust metal alloys.

Key Benefits of Aerospace Overhead Cranes:

• Precision Lifting: Customized hoists and grips ensure the safe handling of sensitive materials.
• Versatility: Modular designs and customizable features adapt to varying project requirements.
• Efficiency: High-speed hoists and intuitive controls reduce downtime and increase productivity.
• Safety: Regular inspections and maintenance keep equipment in optimal condition, minimizing safety hazards.

Partner with ACECO for Your Aerospace Needs

Choosing ACECO means entering into a long-term partnership built on trust, expertise, and a shared commitment to excellence. Our team of experienced engineers and technicians is dedicated to providing robust, reliable, and tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of the aerospace and aviation industries. From initial consultation to routine maintenance, ACECO stands by its products and ensures that your material handling systems are always performing their best.

With American Crane & Equipment Corporation, you can focus on reaching new heights while we handle the heavy lifting.  Contact us today to learn more about our products and services and how we serve the aerospace/aviation industry. To discuss your equipment requirements with one of our representatives, request a quote.

Single vs Double Girder Cranes: Which One Is Right for Your Needs?

When it comes to selecting the right crane for your operations, understanding the differences between single and double girder cranes is essential. At American Crane & Equipment Corporation, we offer a variety of crane solutions tailored to meet your specific lifting requirements. Let’s explore the key differences between single vs double girder cranes to determine which one is right for your needs and application requirements.

Single Girder Cranes

Single girder cranes are designed with one main girder and are ideal for lighter lifting applications. Here are some of the key advantages. 

1. Efficiency in Smaller Spaces: Single girder cranes are compact, making them perfect for facilities with limited space. Their streamlined design allows for efficient operation in smaller areas without compromising performance.
2. Cost-Effective Solution: Due to their simpler construction, single girder cranes are generally less expensive to manufacture and install. This makes them a budget-friendly option for many businesses.
3. Reduced Structural Stress: With less deadweight, single girder cranes place minimal stress on building structures and foundations. This reduced load minimizes wear and tear on runway beams, leading to lower maintenance costs over time.
4. Ease of Installation and Maintenance: The simpler design of single girder cranes translates to easier installation and maintenance, reducing downtime and increasing productivity.

Double Girder Cranes

Double girder cranes, on the other hand, are equipped with two main girders and are built to handle more demanding lifting tasks. This makes them suitable for industries that require moving large, heavy materials.

1. Higher Load Capacity: Double girder cranes are capable of lifting heavier loads compared to single girder cranes. This makes them suitable for industries that require moving large, heavy materials.
2. Increased Hook Height: With the hoist and trolley positioned between the girders, double girder cranes offer greater hook height. This allows the load to be lifted higher, which is crucial for applications requiring significant vertical clearance.
3. Wider Span and Additional Features: Typically, double girder cranes have a wider span and can accommodate additional features such as walkways, maintenance platforms, operator cabs, and lighting. These enhancements improve operational efficiency and safety.
4. Versatility and Customization: Double girder cranes offer customization to meet operational needs, including the integration of advanced control systems and automation features. This versatility makes them a preferred choice for complex lifting operations.

Choosing the Right Crane for Your Needs

When deciding between single and double girder cranes, it’s important to consider your specific operational requirements. For lighter loads and smaller spaces, a single girder crane offers a cost-effective and efficient solution. However, for handling heavier loads, achieving higher hook heights, and accommodating additional features, a double girder crane is the better choice.

At American Crane, we offer a wide range of single and double girder cranes that enhance safety and efficiency in your operations. Visit our store or contact us today to learn more about our crane solutions and how we can support your lifting needs. 

Ensuring Precision and Quality in Cleanroom Assembly and Testing

At American Crane & Equipment Corporation (ACECO), our commitment to Building Top-Quality material handling equipment extends to every aspect of our operations. One of the key facilities that highlight this dedication is our Clean Room Assembly and Testing Bay. Although we do not operate a cleanroom facility in the traditional sense, our facility is a specialized space where we simulate a cleanroom environment to conduct critical load testing, wiring, final assembly, and more for our customers’ diverse needs.

Why We Have a Clean Room

Industries like aerospace require equipment that meet exacting standards of precision and reliability. Components and machinery used in these sectors must be free from contamination and capable of performing under stringent conditions. Recognizing these demands, we established this bay to provide an environment where our equipment can be assembled and tested under conditions that closely mimic those of a cleanroom.

By having a Clean Room, we offer several key advantages to our customers:

1. Precision Testing: Cleanroom environments are essential for testing equipment because even the slightest contamination can compromise functionality. Our Clean Room Bay allows us to perform load testing and other critical evaluations in a controlled environment, ensuring that our equipment meets the highest standards of precision.
2. Enhanced Quality Control: Final assembly and wiring enable us to meticulously inspect and verify every component. This thorough quality control process ensures that our material handling equipment is free from defects and ready for the rigorous demands of various industries.
3. Customer Assurance: By providing a dedicated space for cleanroom-like assembly testing, we offer our customers peace of mind. They can trust that we crafted and tested the equipment in an environment that mirrors the stringent conditions of their own facilities.

Key Features

We equipped our Clean Room Bay with advanced tools and technologies to support a wide range of assembly and testing activities. Some of the key features include:

• Load Testing Equipment: Ensuring that our cranes and lifting devices can handle specified weights and stresses without fail.
• Wiring Stations: Precision wiring setups for intricate components, guaranteeing reliable electrical performance.
• Final Assembly Areas: Dedicated spaces for assembling complex equipment with the utmost care and attention to detail

Commitment to Quality

Our investment in our Clean Room Bay reflects our broader commitment to delivering high-quality material handling solutions. By replicating cleanroom conditions, we uphold the rigorous standards required by various industries. This dedication to quality and precision is a cornerstone of ACECO’s mission.

Our Clean Room Bay is not just a facility; it is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence. We ensure every piece of equipment performs flawlessly by providing a controlled environment for assembly and testing. At ACECO, we understand that quality equipment is built in the proper environment, and our Clean Room Bay is a crucial part of that promise.

Focusing on quality, safety, and efficiency, American Crane continues to lead the way in providing superior clean room solutions. Contact us today to learn more about our Clean Room Bay or request a quote for our industry-leading material handling solutions.

Understanding CMAA Crane Classifications

Overhead cranes and hoists play an integral role in almost every industry, facilitating the efficient and safe movement of heavy materials. Selecting the appropriate crane for your application is crucial for operational safety, maintenance and overall efficiency. Understanding CMAA Crane Classifications is crucial; these classifications, developed by the Crane Manufacturers’ Association of America (CMAA), aid in the selection process and help ensure that the crane chosen is suitable for its intended workload and environment.

Crane & Hoist Classifications

Class A – Infrequent or Standby Service

Designed for precise handling at slow speeds, these cranes are ideal for environments where the crane is used infrequently, such as powerhouses, public utilities, and transformer stations.

Class B – Light Service

These cranes are suitable for light service environments where usage is low and operational speeds are moderate. Common applications include repair shops, light assembly operations, and light warehousing.

Class C – Moderate Service

These cranes are built for moderate service environments like machine shops and paper mill machine rooms. They handle loads averaging 50% of the rated capacity, making five to ten lifts per hour.

Class D – Heavy Service

These cranes are designed for heavy service requirements, such as in heavy machine shops, foundries, and container yards. They handle 10 to 20 lifts per hour with loads averaging 15 feet.

Class E – Severe Service

Throughout their life, these cranes handle loads approaching the rated capacity. Applications include scrap yards, cement mills, and lumber mills, performing twenty or more lifts per hour.

Class F – Continuous Severe Service

These cranes must handle loads approaching rated capacity continuously under severe conditions. Production facilitates use these cranes for critical tasks, requiring high reliability and ease of maintenance.

Key Criteria for Crane Selection

Consider the following criteria when selecting the right overhead crane:

• Speed: Measured in lifts per hour, determining how quickly the crane can move materials.
• Service: Frequency of use.
• Distance: The distance a crane needs to move the lifted materials.
• Rated Capacity: The average rated load of materials moved.
• Maintenance Requirements: Frequency and ease of maintenance.
• Service Conditions: The environment in which the crane operates and its accessibility for servicing.

Quality and Reliability

At American Crane & Equipment Corporation, we manufacture cranes to CMAA Specifications 70 or 74, ensuring they meet high standards of quality and reliability. We design our products to exceed customer expectations, providing safe and efficient solutions for critical environments. With a large inventory of parts and components available for same-day shipping, we ensure minimal downtime for your operations.

For over 50 years, American Crane has been a leader in providing innovative lifting solutions. Our experts are available to assist with any questions regarding crane installation, operation, and maintenance tailored to your specific industry needs.

For more information on choosing the right overhead crane, download our eBook, “Understanding Crane and Hoist Classifications,” or contact the American Crane team today.

The Vital Role of Bridge Repair Travelers

Maintaining and repairing bridges is essential for public safety and infrastructure longevity. At American Crane & Equipment Corporation (ACECO), we offer advanced solutions for these critical tasks, including our specialized bridge maintenance and repair travelers. Bridge repair travelers play a vital role providing safe and efficient access to the undersides of bridges, surpassing traditional scaffolding methods.

What are Bridge Maintenance and Repair Travelers?

Bridge repair travelers are movable platforms that enable technicians to inspect and maintain bride structures from beneath. These platforms are designed to move along the bridge, allowing uninterrupted traffic flow while work is being done. They come equipped with numerous features to ensure safety and efficiency, such as:

• Anti-skewing technology: Ensures stable operation on uneven or misaligned runways.
• Fully enclosed work platforms: Provides a secure environment to prevent falls.
• Non-slip surfaces: Reduces the risk of slipping and accidents.
• On-board personnel lifts: Enhances accessibility to various bridge areas.
• Portable controls: Facilitates easy and precise operation.
• Redundant drop capture systems: Prevents separation from the bridge for added safety.

Features of ACECO’s Bridge Travelers

ACECO’s bridge maintenance and repair travelers are available in several configurations, including self-propelled, gas, diesel, and electric versions. We custom design each traveler to meet specific project needs and incorporate durable materials like stainless, galvanized, or plated steel construction to withstand harsh environmental conditions.

Optional features can further enhance the functionality and safety of these travelers, such as:

• Personnel seating
• Telescopic extensions
• Coast Guard-approved navigation lights
• Diagnostic equipment
• Backup motors
• Emergency stop buttons
• Warning devices

The Advantage of SAFTRACK® Technology

ACECO’s bridge travelers are equipped with the proprietary SAFTRACK® technology, which integrates advanced control software with reliable bridge crane components. Benefits include:

• Enhanced stability: Anti-skewing technology accommodates uneven runways.
• Custom solutions: Tailored designs using conventional crane components.
• Independent drive control: Allows precise and flexible maneuvering.
• Smooth operation: Controlled acceleration and deceleration for safe use.

Partner with ACECO for Superior Bridge Maintenance Solutions

At ACECO, we combine expertise, craftsmanship and partnership to deliver exceptional bridge maintenance equipment. Our custom bridge maintenance and repair travelers provide safe and efficient access to critical bridge points, minimizing the need for road or lane closures. For more information or to discuss your specific requirements, contact us or request a quote today.

Choosing ACECO ensures that your bridge maintenance operations are conducted safely and efficiently, supported by our extensive industry experience and high-quality resources.

Crane 101: Types of Cranes, Basic Terms and Structures

At American Crane & Equipment Corporation (ACECO), we believe that understanding the intricacies of crane types and their components is essential for efficient and safe operations. Cranes are indispensable in construction, manufacturing and logistics, enabling the lifting and moving of heavy loads with precision. This guide provides an overview of crane types, basic terminology and key structures involved.

Types of Cranes

• Overhead Crane: Features a movable bridge carrying a hoisting mechanism that travels on an overhead fixed runway structure.
• Gantry Crane: Similar to overhead cranes, but with the bridge supported on two or more legs running on fixed rails or runways.
• Jib Crane: Has a bridge girder (boom) fixed at one end, often hinged to allow rotation, providing flexibility in small spaces.
• Single Girder Crane: Runs on a single bridge girder, suitable for lighter loads.
• Double Girder Crane: Utilizes two bridge girders, ideal for heavier loads and longer spans.

Learn more: The Basics of Cranes and Hoists

Basic Terms

Crane Components

• Bridge: The main horizontal structure that supports the trolley and travels parallel to the runway.
• Trolley: Carries the hoisting mechanism and moves along the bridge.
• Hoist: The mechanism used for lifting and lowering loads.
• End Trucks: Support the bridge girders and house the wheels that travel on the runway rails.

Learn more: The Four Key Crane Components

Structural Elements

• Bridge Girder: The primary horizontal beam of the crane bridge.
• Box Section: A rectangular cross-section of girders, enhancing strength and stability.
• Camber: An upward curve in the girder to counteract deflection.
• End Tie: Connects the ends of the girders to maintain structural integrity.

Load and Capacity

• Capacity: The maximum load a crane is designed to handle, measured in tons.
• Rated Load: The safe maximum load a crane can handle.
• Critical Load: Any load whose uncontrolled movement could compromise safety systems.

Crane Movement

• Reeving: The path the hoist rope takes around various pulleys and sheaves.
• Span: The horizontal distance between runway rails.
• Hook Approach: The minimum horizontal distance between the runway rail and the hook.

Safety Features

• Anti-Collision: Prevents cranes from contacting each other.
• Single Failure Proof: Design features ensuring that a single component failure won’t result in load loss.
• Holding Brake: Automatically prevents motion when power is off.
• Regenerative Braking: Uses electrical energy to control speed and feed it back into the power system.

Glossary of Terms

• Adjustable Frequency Drive: Motor controller converting fixed frequency AC power for speed control.
• Auxiliary Hoist: A secondary hoist for lighter loads at higher speeds.
• Bogie: Short end truck distributing crane wheel loads.
• Clearance: Minimum distance from crane extremity to nearest obstruction.
• Collectors: Devices collecting current from conductors for the bridge and trolley.
• Festooning: Power supply method for a traveling hoist.
• Sheave: A grooved wheel or pulley guiding the hoist rope.
• Top Running Crane: End trucks supported on rails atop runway beams.
• Under Running Crane: Movable bridge running on the lower flanges of a fixed runway structure.
• Wheel Load: The load on any wheel without vertical inertia force.

Understanding these terms and structures is crucial for anyone involved in crane operation, maintenance, or purchasing. At ACECO, we are committed to providing high-quality cranes and equipment, and we believe that informed customers are empowered customers. Proper knowledge ensures the safe and efficient use of cranes, contributing to overall project success.  To learn more, visit our Glossary Guide for Cranes.

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.