Posted by American Crane and Equipment Corporation on | Leave a Comment
In industrial and manufacturing environments, effective material handling is essential for maintaining productivity, safety, and efficiency. Overhead cranes are a pivotal solution, offering the ability to lift, move, and position heavy loads with precision. Understanding the basics of these systems and the best practices for their use can significantly benefit your operations. Master the basics of overhead cranes with key insights and best practices from American Crane & Equipment Corporation (ACECO)
Understanding Overhead Cranes
Overhead cranes are integral to many industries, designed to move heavy materials across large spaces with minimal floor obstruction. These systems, including bridge cranes and gantry cranes, operate on trucks that allow for movement on three axes–horizontal, vertical, and longitudinal. This versatility makes them suited for various tasks, from transporting materials across a factory floor to precisely positioning loads for assembly or processing.
Why Choose Overhead Cranes?
The advantages of overhead cranes are numerous. They maximize floor space by operating above work areas, freeing up room for other operations and reducing the risk of accidents caused by floor-based equipment like forklifts or conveyors. Additionally, overhead cranes are capable of handling significantly heavier loads, improving overall efficiency and reducing the physical strain on workers.
One of the true values of overhead cranes is their ability to streamline your operations. By enabling direct-path transportation over obstacles such as machinery and workstations, overhead cranes can increase your facility’s productivity and reduce the likelihood of product damage due to mishandling.
How ACECO Can Support Your Overhead Crane Needs
At American Crane & Equipment Corporation, we specialize in providing tailored overhead crane solutions that align with your specific needs. Our team of experts will work closely with you to assess your facility’s requirements and recommend the most suitable crane systems, whether it’s a bridge crane for spanning large areas or a gantry crane for flexible, mobile lifting capabilities.
We don’t just stop at supplying the equipment. ACECO offers comprehensive support services, including installation, maintenance, and upgrades, ensuring that your overhead cranes operate at peak performance throughout their lifecycle. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction means you can trust us to deliver reliable, efficient, and safe material handling solutions that drive your business forward.
Ready to Enhance Your Operations?
Overhead cranes are more than just a tool–they’re a strategic investment in your facility’s productivity and safety. Contact American Crane & Equipment Corporation today to learn how we can help you implement the best overhead crane solutions for your business. Request a quote, reach out to our team, or visit our store to explore our full range of products and services. Let us help you master the basics and beyond.
Posted by American Crane and Equipment Corporation on | Leave a Comment
A machinist is a skilled tradesperson who uses tools and machinery to produce or repair mechanical parts. They read and interpret blueprints, schematics and diagrams to produce or repair precision mechanic pieces. Machinists work in industries such as aerospace, automotive and businesses like American Crane & Equipment Corporation. In this blog post, we sit down with Manual Machinist, Jeff Rear, to hear about a day in his life at ACECO.
Start Strong
Jeff wakes up before the birds around 3:55 a.m. He grabs his morning coffee at Wawa on his way to the Douglassville, Pennsylvania plant. He likes to get there early so that he can be in the proper mindset so he can do his best work. The tasks that he performs are mainly performed on a 5-inch spindle mill or a 7-inch horizontal boring mill, which is lovingly referred to as the “Green Monster.”
Work Smart
The hardest and most critical part of his job is the initial set up of his machines. “You have to think… Seriously think things through. Sequencing is key. You can be boring holes within 5000ths of an inch, so you need to know the most efficient way to do the job,” says Jeff. Working with such precise measurements is one of the reasons why he believes taking his time and being in the right mindset is essential for his job.
Problem Solving
This November, he’ll have worked at ACECO for 19 years and as a machinist for over 40 years. Even with over 40 years of experience as a machinist, Jeff encounters new challenges daily and makes the right adjustments to perform the job correctly. Knowledge builds up over the years, but you need to keep trying, learning and making adjustments. “Something may look familiar, but you have to make compromises with things that don’t work,” he says.
Patience & Collaboration
Jeff believes that the qualities a good machinist would include problem solving abilities, patience and collaboration. “Collaboration is key in the life of a machinist. It takes many hands and multiple steps to complete a job, so working together can make everyone’s jobs easier. It’s important to do your assignments properly, that way it makes it easier on the next person down the line in the process. He also says that the right mindset can go a long way. The right mindset is one that values critical thinking.” He tells us.
The Finished Product
Jeff enjoys what he does for a living and has pride in what he does. His favorite part of the job is seeing the finished product. “It involved the whole company to produce something like a 220-ton trolley, but I machined the pads and drilled in the tap holes. It’s kind of crazy to see,” he says.
He gives a lot of credit to his teacher in trade school when he first studied machining. There were no spots in auto mechanics left, so he studied machining, which became his life’s work.
Join us at ACECO to be part of a dynamic team that takes pride in its work. Visit the careers page to see our current openings and reach out to us if you have any questions about a career opportunity with ACECO.
Posted by American Crane and Equipment Corporation on | Leave a Comment
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:
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.
Posted by American Crane and Equipment Corporation on | 2 Comments
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.
Posted by American Crane and Equipment Corporation on | Leave a Comment
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.
Posted by American Crane and Equipment Corporation on | Leave a Comment
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.
Posted by American Crane and Equipment Corporation on | Leave a Comment
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.
When selecting cranes or hoist equipment for use in outdoor environments, it’s important to choose high-quality, reliable solutions that will be able to withstand extreme temperatures and various weather conditions. When machinery can stand up to even the harshest outdoor conditions, users can rest assured that it will operate reliably throughout the entire project.
Selecting the Proper Equipment for Outdoor Crane Applications
When selecting cranes, hoist equipment, and components for outdoor applications, the following features and parts are recommended to ensure optimal reliability and longevity in harsh conditions.
Severe-duty motors with special insulation, fungal protection, and sealed bearings
Motor strip heaters, stainless steel breather plugs, and corrosion-resistant hardware
Sealed motor disc brakes, rated IP55 minimum
NEMA 4X stainless steel electrical enclosures with heaters
Line voltage transformer for heaters
NEMA 4-rated limit switches
Proper lubricant selection, based on temperature extremes inherent in the application at hand
Sealed cable glands
Stainless steel hoist wire rope for corrosion resistance
Three-part painting system for the trolley frame, as follows:
Surface preparation: SSPC SP10, near-white metal blast
First coat: Inorganic zinc primer (2-3 mils)
Second coat: Epoxy intermediate coat (4-6 mils)
Topcoat: Polyurethane finish coat (3-5 mils)
Conductor systems must also be considered when dealing with outdoor service applications, and UV-resistant covers and corrosion-resistant hardware should be employed. Also, keep in mind that hoist operations must typically be curtailed when wind speeds exceed 35 mph.
Incorporating the features above will allow for a much more resilient material handling system. When deciding on a hoist, crane, or component for a particular outdoor application, it’s imperative to carefully consider each piece of equipment before making a final decision; otherwise, operations, workers, and the surrounding environment are all in danger. Working with ill-suited components greatly increases the risk of equipment damage, employee injuries, and lost productivity. These issues can lead to significant costs in terms of both time and money, and can seriously damage a company’s reputation.
ASME Standards for Cranes Operating in Cold Temperatures
It’s also important to consider the effect of bitterly cold temperatures on material handling equipment. When weighing different hoist options, consider choosing equipment that meets the American Society of Mechanical Engineers’ (ASME’s) temperature standards for proper hoist operation. These standards provide a temperature range for optimal equipment operation, and can be hugely useful in guiding industry professionals toward the best solutions for their specific jobs. Below are three relevant ASME standards for outdoor crane applications.
ASME HST-2-1999 Performance Standard for Manually Operated Chain Hoists — Hoists and trolleys covered by this standard are intended for industrial use in ambient temperatures from 0 °F to 130 °F.
ASME HST-1-1999 Performance Standard for Electric Chain Hoists — Hoist equipment is designed to operate in ambient temperatures between 0 °F and 104 °F.
ASME B30.20 Below the Hook Lifting Devices — Additional considerations need to be taken into account if the working temperature is outside the range of 24 °F to 150 °F.
The Impact of Cold Temperatures on Steel
Cold temperatures can have a serious impact on steel, in turn affecting the working capacity of material handling cranes. When exposed to extreme cold, the structure of steel can shift significantly, going from ductile to brittle as conditions become colder and reach the ductile-to-brittle-transition temperature (DBTT). This shift in structure can have a catastrophic, unpredictable impact on cranes and hoist equipment, greatly affecting their performance. While functionality failure caused by cold weather can occur randomly, it can also be a side effect of other stressors, such as cracks and nicks.
Since temperature can have such serious effects on material handling equipment and its ability to perform properly, it’s essential to select machinery that can not only withstand extreme temperatures but also adhere to the strictest industry standards. In fact, in cold-temperature applications, ASME recommends either derating your crane’s capacity or using steel that is better-suited for operation at lower temperatures.
Learn More
At American Crane, we’re proud to lead the industry in the manufacture of outdoor cranes, hoist equipment, and other material handling equipment. Our experts are well-versed in helping professionals find the right solutions for their unique crane, hoist, and component needs.
To read up on other key factors to keep in mind when choosing an outdoor crane service, download our Technical Notes for Outdoor Service sheet, which outlines important factors to consider when selecting crane and hoist equipment that can withstand temperatures below 0 °F. Or, to discuss your specific needs with an expert, reach out to the team today.
When 