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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.
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.
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.
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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.
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.
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In the world of Engineering Procurement Construction (EPC) and contracting, the reliability and efficiency of lifting systems are paramount. Whether you are a large EPC company embarking on new plant construction or a contractor seeking dependable cranes, hoists, lifting chains or rigging attachments, having the right equipment for your specific application is crucial. At American Crane and Equipment Corporation (ACECO), we stand at the forefront of providing both custom-engineered and standard lifting solutions designed to meet the highest standards of safety and performance. Discover how ACECO can help in maximizing efficiency with custom and standard lifting solutions for EPC companies and contractors.
High-Capacity Equipment: Meeting the Demands of Heavy Lifting
Overhead double girder bridge and box girder cranes are essential for robust lifting systems in industrial settings. These high-capacity cranes are designed to handle substantial loads with precision and ease, ensuring seamless operations in critical environments. With capacities of up to 300 tons, we engineer our overhead cranes for reliability, safety and durability, making them ideal for industries ranging from power generation to aerospace.
State-of-the-Art Features:
Precision Engineering: Our overhead cranes feature advanced engineering to ensure maximum efficiency and safety in lifting applications.
Custom Solutions: We offer custom-designed overhead cranes tailored to meet the unique needs of your project, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
Enhanced Safety: Equipped with state-of-the-art safety features, our cranes minimize the risk of accidents and enhance operational safety.
Compensator Hoist: Precision and Flexibility in Lifting
The compensator hoist is a versatile lifting solution designed to provide precision and flexibility in handling pre-formed floor decks and other materials. This electric chain hoist attaches to crane hooks, allowing for tilting and precise positioning of heavy loads. Ideal for construction and industrial applications, the compensator hoist enhances efficiency and accuracy in lifting operations.
Key Benefits:
Precision Positioning: The compensator hoist enables precise control over the positioning of heavy loads, ensuring accurate placement and alignment.
Versatile Application: Suitable for a wide range of lifting tasks, the compensator hoist offers flexibility in handling various materials and components.
Enhanced Efficiency: By streamlining the lifting process, the compensator hoist reduces downtime and increases productivity on the job site.
Crane Fork & Special Lifters: Versatility in Material Handling
Crane forks and special lifters are indispensable tools for lifting and moving a variety of construction supplies, such as bricks and tools. These attachments enhance the versatility of cranes, enabling efficient and safe handling of diverse materials. Crane forks and special lifters provide the reliability and flexibility you need.
Advantages:
Adaptability: Crane forks and special lifters can be easily attached to cranes, providing a versatile solution for different lifting requirements.
Efficiency: These tools streamline material handling processes, reducing manual labor and increasing operational efficiency.
Safety: Designed to securely lift and move materials, crane forks and special lifters minimize the risk of damage and enhance workplace safety.
Plate Clamps: Secure and Efficient Handling of Sheets
Plate clamps are essential for picking up sheets of steel, stone, and even glass in horizontal or vertical positions. These clamps provide a secure grip, ensuring safe and efficient handling of flat materials. Ideal for industrial and construction applications, plate clamps enhance the versatility and efficiency of lifting operations.
Features:
Secure Grip: Plate clamps are designed to provide a strong and secure grip on flat materials, preventing slippage and ensuring safe handling.
Versatility: Suitable for lifting a wide range of materials, including steel plates, stone slabs, and glass sheets.
Efficiency: By enabling quick and secure lifting of flat materials, plate clamps increase productivity and reduce handling time.
Tailored Solutions for Every Application
At American Crane and Equipment, we understand that every project is unique. That’s why we offer both custom-designed solutions manufactured and engineered in-house, as well as a wide range of standard “off the shelf” products. From small 1/2-ton ratchet lever hoists to 300-ton overhead cranes, we provide the right equipment to meet your specific needs.
Why Choose Us?
Expertise: With decades of experience in the industry, our team of experts provides knowledgeable and reliable support for all your lifting needs.
Quality: We are committed to delivering high-quality products that meet the highest standards of safety and performance.
Customer-Centric Approach: Our focus is on understanding and meeting the unique needs of our clients, ensuring satisfaction with every project.
Contact Us Today
Ready to discover how ACECO can help in maximizing efficiency with custom and standard lifting solutions for EPC companies and contractors? Contact us today to learn more about how our products and services can enhance your operations. Our team is here to help you find a solution that works for you.
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The Marine Industry serves as a cornerstone of our global economy, operating within a unique and challenging environment, requiring specialized equipment to meet its demanding needs. Here at American Crane & Equipment Corporation we have decades of experience and expertise designing and manufacturing custom equipment for the marine industry. Explore further to discover the diverse array of features and climates American Crane caters to, ensuring durability, safety and unmatched service in the Marine Industry.
Customized Solutions
We understand the unique challenges and requirements of marine operations. That’s why we work closely with our customers every step to custom design each crane with features tailored to their specific needs, ensuring durability and reliability in any marine environment.
Durability & Safety
Our team of engineers and technicians meticulously selects top-tier materials when crafting our cranes. These materials are purposefully chosen to endure the harshest conditions, including wind, corrosion, salt, and water exposure. Features like our Stainless-Steel electrical enclosures (NEMA 4X) are adept at safeguarding against damp environments and rigorous washdowns, ensuring optimal performance even in the most challenging marine conditions.
Superior Performance
Whether it is a custom Below-the-Hook Device or standard “off the shelf” product, our equipment is built to perform. Our team takes every measure necessary to ensure that our cranes perform at their peak capacity. We design everything we produce to be all gearing, so it can withstand any heavy-duty service it faces.
Service & Maintenance
At American Crane, we simplify our customer’s lives by providing 24/7 service throughout the entire year. We provide everything from crane and hoist inspections to upgrades and rebuilds. Whether planned or unplanned, our team offers on-site assistance to minimize downtime and ensure efficient crane performance.
Do it Right With ACECO
Marine environments pose unique challenges that demand specialized, durable equipment. At American Crane, we recognize that each client has distinct needs and requirements. That’s why we work closely with our customers every step of the way ensuring durability, safety and unmatched service. Reach out to us to discover how our custom solutions can meet your needs.
Ready to enhance your marine operations? Explore our online store to discover an extensive range of off-the-shelf products designed for efficiency and durability ACECO Products.
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Electric chain hoists are essential tools, engineered to lift and move heavy loads with precision and ease. Among the diverse models and brands available in the market today, the Classic Lodestar electric chain hoist is the industry’s top choice. Discover why its balanced, integrated and proven design, boasting a range of special features, distinguish it from the rest.
Features
The Classic Lodestar features hardened, forged steel, latch type hooks and Hoistaloy load chains ensuring long, dependable service with up to a 3-ton capacity. Designed for longevity and quiet operation, the gear train is lubricated with non-oxidizing grease for a lifetime of smooth performance. Its straightforward installation and low-maintenance design are among the many reasons this product remains a favorite.
Special Applications
This U.S.A. made electric chain hoist offers customizable special features to meet diverse operational needs. The Classic Lodestar is built to withstand harsh environments, making it ideal for severe duty applications such as plating, galvanizing, and washdown processes. With options like creep control, users can achieve precise positioning through adjustable time delay settings. Its climbing capability makes it suitable for temporary rigging or lifting applications in the inverted position.
Chain Storage
The Classic Lodestar offers an alternative to its standard metal chain container. The standard metal chain container is convenient for slack chain storage and includes a security cable for added safety. Alternatively, the fabric chain bag, suitable for chain weights up to 300 pounds, offers high tensile and tear strength, excellent resistance to ultraviolet rays, mildew stains, rot, and weather. Its lightweight, flexible material dampens noise and avoids shrinkage, making it perfect for outdoor environments.
Lifetime Warranty
One of the standout aspects of the Classic Lodestar electric chain hoist is its lifetime warranty. Coupled with the hoist’s inherent durability, this warranty makes the Lodestar an excellent long-term investment for any industrial setting. The Classic Lodestar has stood the test of time and continues to be a reliable choice for industries worldwide.
Built to Last
The Classic Lodestar electric chain hoist is the industry’s top choice due to superior design and outstanding features. Its efficient performance makes it ideal for any industrial lifting needs. Let us be your trusted partner in the industry and lift your operations to new heights. Whether you’re looking for a new product or replacing an old one, American Crane & Equipment Corporation has an extensive range of parts and products on our online store ACECO Products.Contact us today and see why ACECO is the preferred choice for overhead crane systems, hoists and material handling equipment.
If your business depends on crane technology in any capacity, one of the most urgent and important safety and logistical concerns you’ll face is a situation involving a critical lift.
A critical lift is any operation involving a crane in which there are heightened risk factors and thus no acceptable margin of error. A critical lift requires extra planning, extra manpower, and flawless execution. Failure to properly anticipate and plan for a critical lift can result in loads being catastrophically damaged, damage to equipment, extensive project delays, and even loss of life.
It’s vital to know what a critical lift is and, more importantly, how to categorized your lift accordingly.
How to Know if Your Lift is Critical
While there is no universally accepted definition, experience and extensive research has taught us that a robust list of factors contribute to what we should consider a critical lift. The best general guideline to follow is to always side with safety and adequate planning when a lift is in question. If you have any doubt that your standard lift equipment and procedures are inadequate to meet the needs of the operation, you should always treat it as a critical lift.
Cover the Critical Lift Checklist
Does the lift exceed 75% of your crane’s capacity? Are multiple cranes required for the lift? Will the lift require the load to be manipulated outside the operator’s view at any time? Does the lift involve an unusual, unusually technical rigging arrangement? Could the damage to the uniquely valuable load produce serious monetary losses? Would damaging the load cause serious delays to an important project timeline?
If the answer to any of these questions is “yes,” then the odds are overwhelming you have a critical lift ahead of you.
Our Mission is You
American Crane’s mission is to make the lives of our customers easier and promote their empowerment, growth, and safety. We do that through the design, manufacture, and implementation of the best cranes in the industry. We believe in imbuing everything we do with heart, integrity, perseverance, and grit.
It’s because of these core values that we choose to offer a range of safety and educational information to our customers, competitors, and the industry at large.
While there is no universally accepted definition, experience and extensive research has taught us that a robust list of factors contribute to what we should consider a critical lift. The best general guideline to follow is to always side with safety and adequate planning when a lift is in question. If you have any doubt that your standard lift equipment and procedures are inadequate to meet the needs of the operation, you should always treat it as a critical lift.