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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Posted by Karen Norheim, President & CEO on | Leave a Comment
As with so many things in life, it’s the little things that make a big difference. The same holds true of overhead lifting equipment and its operation: paying attention to the small details can have a big impact on the safety and productivity of a facility.
That’s why the Crane Manufacturers Association of America (CMAA), an organization dedicated to promoting the standardization of crane design and operation — as well as uniform quality and performance — works hard to meet its mission. That is, to deliver technical specifications and resources that promote safety in the design, operation, and maintenance of overhead cranes.
Even after poring over those specifications, standards, and resources, owners and operators of cranes often still have questions. Many of those questions surround some of the key details that should be taken into consideration when buying, operating, maintaining, and inspecting overhead lifting equipment.
The Overhead Lifting Best Practices Guide gives owners and operators of overhead lifting equipment a comprehensive, single-source reference about some of the key tools and techniques — including the little details — that contribute to a safer operation. As the current President of CMAA and having worked in the industry myself for 20 years, I have seen the operational safety and productivity benefits that result from following these guidelines and standards. The 18 best-practice topics include:
Qualifications of overhead crane and hoist operator to ensure that personnel have been properly trained to safely use the equipment.
Fall protection for crane structures, specifically lifelines and harnesses that have been properly designed to prevent or stop the accidental fall of workers and their tools while working at height.
Capacity markings on cranes, hoists, and monorails to indicate to an operator the maximum rated load the system was designed to handle.
Safety signs — such as decals, labels, placards, cord tags, or other markings — indicate hazards and the safety precautions that should be taken to avoid them.
Audible and visible warning alarms that indicate to the operator and other personnel in the area of the crane’s operation that the equipment is in use.
Load tests to verify that the equipment will perform all functions (lift, lower, travel the length of the bridge and of the runway) while supporting a test load equal to the maximum rated capacity of the equipment. These are performed at commissioning, after any modifications are made, and during certain inspections.
Conductor bar systems, specifically bare uninsulated copper wire conductors positioned along the length of a runway to supply power to overhead equipment, and a fourth, unpowered bar for grounding the system.
Conductor bar guards and how to attach and maintain them so that they prevent inadvertent contact of power wires with hoist ropes, block, or load.
Upper limit switches are designed to cut off the power automatically at (or near) the maximum limit of travel for a crane motion, such as lift/lower, trolley traverse, or bridge traverse. This prevents damage to the overhead equipment that may result in a load drop.
E-stops and safety disconnects, their location, accessibility, and how they are to be used to cut off the power to the overhead handling equipment outside of the regular operating controls in the event of an emergency or loss of control.
E-stops for powered, below-the-hook devices that attach a load to the hook, such as vacuum lifters, electro-magnets, and grippers. These E-stops operate independently of the overall crane system, allowing the operator to disengage the power solely for the below-the-hook device if an emergency or malfunction occurs.
Runway disconnect switches provide a backup to an E-stop as a second means to disconnect power to the crane if a malfunction or emergency happens.
Rail sweeps, mounted in front of the wheels on bridge and trolley end trucks, ensure that any debris or obstructions in the travel path are bumped off the railway. They prevent damage to crane wheels, axles, and bearings, as well as stop objects from passing between the rail and wheels, which could cause a derailment.
Trolley and bridge bumpers made of rubber, polyurethane, springs, or a hydraulic device that minimizes the force of an impact when a trolley or bridge reaches the end of its permitted travel or contacts the rail end stops at a high rate of speed. They prevent structural damage to the crane, runway, and building and should be routinely maintained and inspected.
Bridge and trolley brakes for slowing, stopping, holding, and controlling motion. Operators should be trained in their proper use. They save wear and tear on the bridge and trolley, as well as prevent a load from running into and damaging equipment or injuring personnel. They should be routinely maintained and inspected.
Guards for couplings and line shafts, whether fixed or removable, serve as a safety barrier that prevents access to dangerous areas. Any moving parts of a crane or hoist that might pose a hazard during normal operation must be guarded to prevent injury.
End stops limit trolley or crane bridge travel. Typically mounted to a fixed structure, they prevent damage to the equipment and are designed to engage the full surface of a bumper. They should be maintained and inspected regularly.
Chain containers capture and store slack hoist chains on the no-load side of the load sheave. Their use is recommended when an excess load chain is likely to interfere with the load or to create a hazard to operations or personnel.
Many of the 18 topics discussed are covered by requirements outside of those from CMAA, HMI, MMA, and OSHA. Pertinent standards from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), and the National Electrical Code (NEC) are also included. Each topic has a list of best practices for how to interpret those requirements, as well as how to implement or follow their directions, to create the safest overhead lifting environment possible.
Overhead Lifting Best Practices Guide is offered as a free download. I encourage you to add a copy to your library of resources. If you have any questions about the topics it covers — or about any other best practices in the safe operation and maintenance of your overhead handling equipment and its numerous safety features and devices — don’t hesitate to connect with American Crane. Our online Resources Library includes a collection of informative eBooks, videos, CAD drawings, photos, and a crane glossary.
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Contact us. We’re happy to help.
Manufacturers invest substantial resources outfitting their facilities with efficient overhead crane equipment, and it forms a critical part of daily operations. With a wide variety of uses in the automotive, aerospace, and energy industries, maintaining a high-quality crane ensures that your facility will operate at peak productivity and safety.
Though we all dream of everlasting equipment, the reality is that consistent use will wear down both mechanical and electrical components over time. Your overhead crane or hoist equipment won’t be top of the line forever, so it’s important to understand how and when your equipment requires maintenance. Additionally, sometimes repairs and modernization cost more than they’re worth, making it necessary to recognize cases where you may need to replace your crane entirely.
Working with old or obsolete equipment will drive up maintenance costs and decrease your plant’s efficiency. But how do you know it’s time to invest the capital to upgrade your equipment? Below, we assembled eight tell-tale signs that it’s time to overhaul your overhead equipment.
8 Signs It’s Time for an Upgrade
1. Your Crane Incurs Multiple Repairs
Older cranes require more upkeep and repairs, increasing your facility’s downtime while you order parts and perform maintenance. Repeated unplanned downtimes caused by faulty equipment can incur hefty costs beyond replacing parts. If your crane has to undergo multiple repairs just to perform its basic functions, it’s time to call a specialist to evaluate it’s condition.
2. Expired Warranties on Major Components
Most crane parts come with manufacturer or supplier warranties extending over long periods of time. The length of a warranty also acts as a good measure of the part’s lifespan. Therefore, finding yourself repairing equipment with expired warranties may be a dead giveaway that it’s time for a new crane.
3. Your Requirements and Processes Have Changed
If you find your cranes lift different, heavier, or higher volumes of materials than those for which they were originally designed, don’t wait to make a change! Your lifting equipment may require faster speeds or more precise controls as you scale up your facility. Straining old machinery to meet new demand could end in downtime or injury.
4. You Can Only Fix Your Crane with Rare and Expensive Parts
As crane technology improves, old crane parts become obsolete and difficult to find. If the supply landscape has decided that it’s no longer worth building your crane parts, you might have to find a more modern and up-to-date crane.
5. Your Crane Injures Workers
Be mindful of the number of injuries, equipment issues, and malfunctions surrounding your crane. If your crane regularly breaks and injures workers, it goes without saying that it’s time to consider new options.
6. Outdated Technology Results in Inefficient Production Times
More and more cranes are incorporating pendant or radio controls in their designs. These new innovations allow the operator to have a clearer vantage point from the ground to identify and react to obstacles, personnel, and hazards as the crane moves.
7. Your Equipment Fails Inspections
You should regularly evaluate crane equipment to OSHA, AME, and CMAA standards. Regular inspections will identify any signs of wear or irregularities, allowing you to proactively address issues and avoid potential fines or legal action.
8. Your Crane Takes On More Critical Tasks
When crane functions become more central to your facility’s functioning, it may be time to evaluate its abilities to perform under greater stress or consider adding an additional crane for these critical tasks. Accounting for all the points in the following checklist will ensure smooth operation as lift loads become more critical.
Does the lift exceed 75% of your crane’s capacity?
Does the lift require multiple cranes?
Will workers have to manipulate the load outside the operator’s view?
Does the lift involve an unusually technical rigging arrangement?
Could damaging the load produce serious monetary losses?
Would damaging the load cause serious delays to important project timelines?
Optimize Your Lifting Equipment with American Crane
Our expert team at American Crane will get your equipment back up and running in an efficient and cost-effective manner. If you think it’s time to replace your overhead crane, contact our professional crane technicians and evaluators for personalized consultations.
Interested in reading more before chatting with us? Be sure to download our Crane Buyers Guide to see what updates or replacements we offer for your applications!
Almost any industry utilizes overhead cranes and hoists. There is a wide variety of overhead lifting equipment to fit any use, so how can you select the right equipment for your particular application? Since crane choice is so important for workers’ safety as well as maintenance and inspection requirements, the Crane Manufacturers’ Association of America (CMAA) has established crane service classifications to make it easier to choose.
Crane & Hoist Classifications
Class A – Infrequent or Standby
These cranes are best for precise handling at slow speeds. They are good choices for powerhouses, public utilities, turbine rooms, motor rooms, and transformer stations.
Class B – Light Service
This class is ideal for environments with light service requirements and low speed needs. They can handle two to five lifts per hour, and work well for repair shops, light assembly operations, service buildings, and light warehousing.
Class C – Moderate Service
These cranes are built for use in machine shops, papermill machine rooms, and other such environments with moderate service requirements. They can handle loads that average 50% of the rated capacity, making five to ten lifts per hour, with not over 50% of the lifts at rated capacity.
Class D – Heavy Service
These cranes may be used in heavy machine shops, foundries, fabricating plants, steel warehouses, container yards, lumber mills, etc., and standard duty bucket and magnet operations where heavy-duty production is required. In this type of service with 10 to 20 lifts per hour averaging 15 feet, not over 65 percent of the lifts at rated capacity.
Class E – Severe Service
These cranes are capable of handling loads approaching a rated capacity throughout its life. Applications may include magnet, bucket, magnet/bucket combination cranes for scrap yards, cement mills, lumber mills, fertilizer plants, container handling, etc., with twenty of more lifts per hour at or near the rated capacity.
Class F – Continuous Severe Service
These cranes must be capable of handling loads approaching rated capacity continuously under severe service conditions throughout its life. Applications may include custom designed specialty cranes essential to performing the critical work tasks affecting the total production facility. These cranes must provide the highest reliability with special attention to ease of maintenance features.
Crane Selection Criteria
So what class crane best suites your particular manufacturing needs and environment? Review the following important criteria when selecting the right overhead crane:
Speed – Measured in lifts per hour, this is how quickly the crane is able to move materials and equipment.
Service – The crane’s frequency of use.
Distance – The distance a crane needs to move the lifted materials.
Rated Capacity – The average rated load of materials moved determines rated capacity.
Maintenance Requirements – How often the crane needs to be serviced.
Service Conditions – The environment in which a crane will operate, and its access for servicing, are important factors.
Strength of Our Products
At American Crane & Equipment Corporation, our cranes are manufactured to CMAA Specifications 70 or 74. We can also supply cranes that meet ASME, NUM-1 and NOG-1 requirements.
Our products are carefully manufactured to meet each customer’s specific need.
Our equipment can be used in critical environments where safety cannot be compromised.
We make our products to meet and exceed customer expectations.
Our equipment is built with quality, reliability, and enhanced safety in mind.
We have a large inventory of parts and components available to be shipped the same day.
When in Doubt, Consult the Experts
For over 40 years, American Crane & Equipment Corporation has been one of the most innovative manufacturers of high-quality, specialty lifting solutions for unique applications and environments. Our overhead crane solutions experts are available to answer any questions you have about crane installation, operation, and maintenance as they relate to your particular industry. Download our eBook, Understanding Crane and Hoist Classifications, for answers to your product questions.
You can also contact the American Crane team now by clicking here.
Class B – Light Service