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For motor control, the Adjustable Frequency Drive (AFD) is pivotal. Designed to convert fixed frequency AC power to variable frequency power, AFDs enable precise speed control for AC motors, particularly squirrel cage motors. This capability is crucial for maintaining a constant voltage/frequency ratio, ensuring efficient and smooth operation across a wide, constant torque range.
Key Benefits of Adjustable Frequency Drives
Enhanced Speed Control: AFDs allow for precise adjustment of motor speed, which is essential for applications requiring variable motor performance. By controlling the frequency of the power supplied to the motor, AFDs can fine-tune the motor’s speed to match the specific needs of the operation.
Soft-Start Feature: One of the standout features of AFDs is their ability to provide a soft-start for motors. This means that the motor ramps up to its operating speed gradually, minimizing the in-rush current and reducing mechanical stress on the motor. This soft-start capability helps prevent load swing and extends the lifespan of the motor.
Energy Efficiency: By adjusting the motor speed to the exact requirements of the load, AFDs can significantly reduce energy consumption. This not only lowers operational costs but also contributes to a greener, more sustainable environment by reducing overall energy usage.
Constant Torque Control: Maintaining a constant torque is crucial for applications where load conditions vary. AFDs excel in this regard, ensuring that the motor delivers consistent performance even when the load changes, thereby enhancing operational stability and efficiency.
Applications of Adjustable Frequency Drives
AFDs are widely used in various industries due to their versatility and efficiency. Common applications include:
HVAC Systems: For controlling fans and pumps, AFDs ensure optimal performance and energy savings.
Manufacturing: In conveyor systems, mixers, and other machinery, AFDs provide precise speed control and enhance productivity.
Cranes and Hoists: By minimizing load swings and providing smooth operation, AFDs are essential for safe and efficient material handling.
Indispensable Tool
The Adjustable Frequency Drive is a game-changer in motor control technology, offering unmatched precision, efficiency, and versatility. By converting fixed frequency AC power to variable frequency, AFDs provide smooth, energy-efficient motor operation and extend the life of mechanical components. Additionally, they help in reducing operational noise, making them ideal for noise-sensitive environments. For industries seeking to optimize performance and reduce energy costs, AFDs are an indispensable tool. They also offer improved process control, contributing to higher quality outcomes in manufacturing and processing industries. Furthermore, AFDs enhance system reliability and reduce the need for maintenance, resulting in lower downtime and operational costs. This technology is crucial for achieving operational excellence in various industrial applications, from heavy machinery to precision equipment.
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In the fast-paced world of automotive manufacturing, efficiency and precision are paramount. American Crane & Equipment Corporation (ACECO) stands at the forefront, offering cutting-edge overhead lifting solutions tailored to meet the unique demands of the automotive industry. Our comprehensive range of products and custom-designed solutions empower automotive facilities to streamline their production processes, ensuring they stay ahead in a competitive market.
Versatile Lifting Solutions for Every Need
At ACECO, we understand that the automotive industry requires a diverse array of lifting solutions. Our offering ranges from manually operated systems to highly sophisticated automated systems. Whether you need to lift small components during production or heavy engines and auto frames on the assembly line, our equipment is designed to handle it all with the utmost precision and safety.
Enhancing Efficiency and Safety
One of the key challenges in automotive manufacturing is moving products and parts efficiently while navigating obstacles. Our overhead lifting solutions allow loads to be transported safely along a direct path, saving both space and time. This streamlines the production process reducing production time and enabling automotive facilities to meet critical deadlines and maintain their competitive edge.
Custom Solutions for Unique Requirements
ACECO prides itself on offering custom-designed solutions that are manufactured and engineered in-house. Our team of experts collaborates closely with clients to understand their specific needs and design equipment that perfectly fits their applications. From small ½ ton ratchet lever hoists to massive 300-ton overhead cranes, we have the right equipment to meet any requirement in the automotive industry.
Electric Chain, Air Chain, Hand Chain, and Chain Lever Hoists: Ideal for lifting smaller components with precision.
Electric Wire Rope, Air Wire Rope, and Wire Rope Lever Hoists: Designed for heavy-duty lifting applications.
Rigging Equipment: Ensuring safe and efficient handling of loads.
Below the Hook Devices: Custom grapples and lifting beams.
Other Manufacturing Solutions: Tailored to enhance various aspects of automotive production.
Partnering for Success
ACECO’s commitment to the automotive industry goes beyond providing top-notch equipment. We partner with our clients to deliver solutions that drive success. Our team ensures every piece of equipment exceeds industry standards for quality and performance.
Partner With Us
Ready to revolutionize your automotive manufacturing process? Contact us today or request a quote to discover how ACECO’s overhead lifting solutions can transform your operations. Our experts are here to help you find the perfect solution for your needs, ensuring efficiency, safety, and reliability every step of the way.
ACECO’s innovative overhead lifting solutions play a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency and safety of automotive manufacturing. By providing versatile, custom-designed equipment, we empower automotive facilities to streamline their processes, meet critical deadlines, and stay ahead of the competition. Partner with ACECO for reliable, high-quality lifting solutions that drive success in the automotive industry.
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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.
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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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.
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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 in fostering a culture that places the utmost importance on the well-being and safety of our employees, customers, and the community at large. As we embrace the month of June, we want to highlight one of our core values: “Life Matters, Be Safe.” This core value serves as a reminder to prioritize safety in every aspect of our operations, and it underscores our commitment to creating a safe environment for everyone involved.
Promoting a Safety-First Culture
At American Crane & Equipment Corporation (ACECO), safety is not just a set of rules and regulations—It’s a way of life. We understand that a strong safety culture is vital for the success and longevity of our company. We implement comprehensive safety programs and train our employees to recognize and mitigate potential risks. Life Matters, and we firmly believe that safety is the most crucial investment we can make. It is not about what it costs, but what it saves. With this mantra deeply ingrained in our values, we instill a “Be Safe” mindset in every aspect of our operations. By prioritizing safety, we protect the well-being of our employees, prevent accidents, and ensure the future prosperity of our organization.
Employee Training and Development
We firmly believe that well-trained employees are the foundation of a safe workplace. Through regular training sessions, workshops, and certification programs, we ensure that our employees are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their jobs safely. We provide ongoing education and encourage continuous learning to stay up to date with the latest safety standards and industry best practices.
“The inspectors from American Crane always do a great job with our cranes, whether it’s the regular quarterly inspection or a unit repair. The reports I receive are very well written and accurate which is a great way to monitor our cranes and to keep up with repairs and maintenance.”
– Bruce, Contracting Representative
Safety Equipment and Technology
Investing in state-of-the-art safety equipment and technology is a fundamental aspect of our commitment to safety. We equip our team members with the necessary tools and protective gear to minimize hazards and promote a safe working environment. By leveraging advanced technology, such as real-time monitoring systems and predictive analytics, we strive to identify potential safety issues before they escalate, ensuring the well-being of our workforce.
Risk Assessment and Prevention
Identifying and mitigating potential risks is a cornerstone of our safety initiatives. Our experienced safety professionals conduct thorough risk assessments and hazard analyses to identify potential dangers in our operations. By proactively addressing these risks and implementing appropriate control measures, we aim to prevent accidents and injuries.
Open Communication and Reporting
Maintaining open lines of communication is crucial for effective safety management. At American Crane, we encourage our employees to report any safety concerns promptly. By fostering a culture of trust and accountability, we ensure that potential issues are addressed promptly, allowing us to continually improve and evolve our safety practices.
Continuous Improvement
We understand that safety is an ongoing process. Through regular audits, inspections, and feedback from our employees, we constantly evaluate and improve our safety protocols. By embracing a culture of continuous improvement, we can adapt to emerging safety challenges and maintain our commitment to excellence in safety performance.
Safety as a Shared Responsibility
As we reflect on safety as an integral part of ACECO’s company culture, we are reminded of the mantra that guides us: “Life Matters, Be Safe.” This phrase encapsulates our unwavering commitment to prioritize the well-being and safety of our employees, customers, and the wider community. At ACECO, safety is not just a set of rules and regulations; it is a way of life that we wholeheartedly embrace. Through comprehensive safety programs, continuous employee training, and the utilization of advanced safety equipment and technology, we strive to create a workplace where every individual can thrive without compromising their safety. We conduct thorough risk assessments, encourage open communication, and foster a culture of continuous improvement to ensure that safety remains at the forefront of our operations. We understand that safety is a shared responsibility, and by working together, we can cultivate an environment where everyone feels safe, valued, and protected.
Contamination in the manufacturing process can compromise the quality of the end product and the safety of the staff involved in the manufacturing or even the final consumer. Many companies invest in cleanrooms to maintain a controlled environment free from contaminants and particles, ensuring the quality and safety of their products and processes.
Cleanrooms significantly reduce the number of contaminants, such as aerosol particles, dust, chemical vapors, and airborne microbes. This regulated level of contamination makes these spaces ideal for many industries where small particles can impact the quality of a product. At American Cranes, we are experts in providing material handling solutions. We offer industry-leading cleanroom cranes that adhere to strict standards and specifications.
Learn more about clean room cranes and the solutions we can deliver for your company.
Industries Served by Revolutionary Cleanroom Technology
Cleanrooms have a controlled level of contamination – by specifying the maximum number and size of particles per cubic meter allowed in the room. For instance, a typical city environment has 35 million particles per cubic meter (0.5 microns and larger in diameter), a contamination level corresponding to an ISO 9 cleanroom.
ISO 14633-1 offers guidance for acceptable air quality levels within the designated clean room ISO classes. The lowest level is ISO 9 and corresponds to a typical city environment. Whereas, ISO 1 allows only up to 12 particles per cubic meter (3 microns and smaller).
Cleanrooms have particle counters which detect and count physical contaminants. Physical counting can indicate potential issues within an otherwise controlled processing environment. For example, it can help discover issues such as a malfunctioning part of air handling equipment or a gap in a door seal. After detecting the issue, the staff can find ways to rectify and maintain the required level of contamination.
Cleanrooms are crucial in all industries where small particles can impact manufacturing. American Crane has experience in offering material handling solutions for various industries, including:
Semiconductors
Pharmaceutical and nutraceuticals
Food and beverage
Medical cannabis
Cosmetics and perfumes
Hospital and healthcare facilities
Technology
Nuclear
Laboratories
Research and life science
Aerospace
Optics
Semiconductor Industry
Semiconductor manufacturing facilities must effectively manage a range of environmental factors including temperature, airflow, noise, lighting, vibration, humidity, airborne particles, and temperature fluctuations over time, with a high degree of precision and control. Regulating these parameters is crucial since a single dust particle is enough to render a chip useless.
In the semiconductor industry, cleanroom cranes are essential for handling delicate equipment and materials without introducing contamination to the controlled environment of the cleanroom, and these cranes must adhere to strict design requirements such as using non-particulating materials, featuring smooth surfaces and edges, and maintaining a positive air pressure within the crane system to prevent infiltration of unfiltered air.
Semiconductor cleanrooms must meet ISO Class 5 or lower, which limits particles to 3,520 at 0.5 microns or smaller for each cubic meter of air. They must also adhere to ISO 14644-2, which requires the implementation of a quality control system subject to specific classification criteria.
Some applications may require a semiconductor fabrication plant to adhere to industry regulations from the SEMI Standards Program, various industry technical committees, task forces, and other regulatory bodies. These standards, alongside ISO, ensure the cleanroom environment is continuously controlled and that products have a consistent and long-lasting quality.
Pharmaceutical Industry
Federal agencies such as the EMA, the Dutch CBG, and the US FDA regulate the pharmaceutical industry heavily. While no regulations or laws apply specifically to pharmaceutical cleanrooms, companies with controlled spaces in the industry set high standards to prevent contamination, micro-bacterial growth, and gas or dust explosions.
Cleanroom cranes are used in the pharmaceutical industry to transport and handle sensitive materials and equipment in a controlled environment to prevent contamination. Specific design requirements for cleanroom cranes in this industry include the use of materials that are resistant to corrosion, easy to clean and maintain, and do not emit any particles, while also featuring a smooth, seamless construction and a positive air pressure system to prevent unfiltered air infiltration.
Food & Beverage Industry
The food and beverage industry involves various manual tasks that can increase product quality and sanitation risks. Clean room cranes give better process control, increase production efficiency and improve safety and hygiene. Typically, food and beverage companies use stainless steel equipment in their cleanrooms, which is food-grade and resistant to the harsh chemicals used to clean the equipment. However, they must ensure proper installation to improve accessibility to all parts of the crane, easing cleaning. In addition, cleanroom equipment should not leave any hollow spaces since they are difficult to clean.
Aerospace Industry
Aerospace manufacturing involves frequently lifting, turning, and positioning large components during assembly. Since the items hoisted are sensitive to damage and any mistake could lead to significant production delays, aerospace manufacturers must choose specially designed cleanroom cranes that meet stringent industry standards.
American Crane takes pride in our experience designing thedouble girder crane for The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The administration had challenges lifting its first spacecraft (Orion), built for long-term crewed spaceflight and exploration. We designed a double girder crane, allowing NASA to lift the spacecraft to its final position. The crane is still in use today for sensitive hoisting applications.
Cleanroom Cranes from American Crane
Cleanroom cranes are crucial in manufacturing products in highly sensitive fields where environmental contamination must be minimized. The engineered spaces maintain a low level of airborne particles, guaranteeing product quality and safety.
At American Cranes, we have over four decades of material handling experience and can offer cleanroom crane solutions that meet stringent requirements for any industry.Contact us today torequest a quote.
We love analogies! For many years, we have referenced the sunstone as a tribute to our Norwegian heritage. The Vikings used the sunstone to locate the sun and stars to navigate in rough waters. At American Crane, our sunstone is our people. Though every project may not be easy, we give our employees the foundation to make decisions and problem-solve to absolutely fulfill and delight our customers. We do what we commit to do, do it well, and do it on schedule.
We believe our strength is in our team members, and we are committed to a culture that fosters their growth, empowerment, and safety.
CEO of American Crane, Karen Norheim, explains her vision:
“At American Crane, we believe that to plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow. That is why we are building the business for where we are going, not just where we are.”
If you water and nurture your garden, your career, your family, your friends, and if you spread the seeds and till the soil, you will prepare for future generations and gardens to come. This relates to our culture at American Crane. The garden year cycles through, and we cultivate our employee relationships to grow our business together as a team. We want to make sure that we have a business environment that allows everyone to thrive.
We believe that the longevity of our customer relationships comes from nurturing our employees. As our mission states, we put perseverance, heart, and integrity into everything we do.
We are here for the long term and look forward to servicing our customers for the next 50 years!
From high-tech manufacturing to the food and beverage, medical, and pharmaceutical industries, cleanrooms make it possible to process sensitive materials under the strictest conditions. As a leader in custom cleanroom crane technology, we’ll cover what goes into a cleanroom, its numerous benefits, and how the cleanroom industry supports the stringent needs of semiconductor manufacturers.
What Is a Cleanroom?
A cleanroom is a highly managed environment with strict controls over particulates, aerosols, humidity, and other environmental factors. It provides advanced filtration of pollutants, such as dust and even gases, to maintain the cleanest work site possible. This is important for companies manufacturing or researching highly sensitive electronics and perishable items. Sensitive electronics such as semiconductors depend on cleanrooms because they’re highly vulnerable to damage.
Depending on the exact thresholds of the instruments or products being fabricated or handled, custom cleanrooms allow control over a range of variables, such as:
Temperature
Airflow
Humidity
Particulates
This is achieved with an intricate series of fans, HEPA or ULPA filtration systems, and other specialized HVAC components. These components must be calibrated to function together for the tightest possible controls over all relevant environmental variables within the enclosed workspace.
Specialty equipment must also be used in the cleanroom. ISO 14644-2 (previously FS209E) sets the industry standard with several cleanliness classification levels.
The Vital Role of Cleanrooms in Manufacturing
Manufacturing cleanrooms are vital when high-value components depend on contaminant-free manufacturing. Electromagnetically sensitive components must be built to exact tolerances, and this can only be achieved with strict control over the fabrication, testing, and packaging environments.
Even manufacturing equipment, such as cranes and hoists, must be built to similarly strict standards to reduce contamination. NASA contractors are increasingly designing custom cleanroom equipment to both reduce contamination and make stringent manufacturing procedures possible.
With cleanroom hoists and cranes, cleanrooms can be protected further by reducing or eliminating the need for people to work directly in the room. Cleanroom cranes are also capable of lifting and manipulating objects with exacting, replicable precision.
Cleanroom Applications
The cleanroom industry serves numerous other industries, most notably:
Aerospace
Electronics
Semiconductor
Medical technology
Food and beverage
Pharmaceuticals
In the latter two industries, cleanrooms ensure products are free of contamination before being sold for public consumption.
High-tech industries rely on manufacturing cleanrooms to keep sensitive equipment from being tainted by pollutants. Even small particulates or temperature fluctuations could damage devices with extremely low tolerance thresholds and strict operating conditions, such as semiconductors. Wafers, substrates, and other materials must be assembled with extreme delicacy.
Doing so requires an environment free of environmental contaminants such as dust, chemical vapors, and sometimes even airborne microbes. Depending on the cleanroom’s application, assembly parameters can be set according to specific, allowable contamination levels. It depends on the product being used and which ISO 14644-2 cleanroom classification level is appropriate for the intended use.
Benefits of a Semiconductor Manufacturing Clean Room
A semiconductor cleanroom provides many benefits that would otherwise be impossible or greatly reduced, including:
Reliable Control
Faster Production
Consistent Product Quality
Repeatable Results
Safer Working Conditions
Precision Movement
Cost Savings
Semiconductor manufacturing is more reliable and replicable with proper cleanroom equipment. Product loss is greatly minimized, for reduced costs and material waste. For engineers, more exact manufacturing techniques become possible, leading to greater innovations.
Cleanroom cranes are the key to consistently replicable semiconductor cleanroom processes, due to their programmability and exacting precision. Other semiconductor manufacturing equipment can be calibrated accordingly, reducing the need for inexact manual processes that introduce unnecessary variables and contaminants into the cleanroom space.
Cleanroom Cranes from American Crane
American Crane’s cleanroom cranes are designed with special shields and components that prevent pollutants and debris from contaminating the room in which they reside, as well as other equipment. They’re also designed with silver ion coatings to prevent microorganism growth, supporting even the strictest long-term cleanroom standards.
For motor control, the Adjustable Frequency Drive (AFD) is pivotal. Designed to convert fixed frequency AC power to variable frequency power, AFDs enable precise speed control for AC motors, particularly squirrel cage motors. This capability is crucial for maintaining a constant voltage/frequency ratio, ensuring efficient and smooth operation across a wide, constant torque range.
In the fast-paced world of automotive manufacturing, efficiency and precision are paramount. 
At 
We love analogies! For many years, we have referenced the sunstone as a tribute to our Norwegian heritage. The Vikings used the sunstone to locate the sun and stars to navigate in rough waters. At American Crane, our sunstone is our people. Though every project may not be easy, we give our employees the foundation to make decisions and problem-solve to absolutely fulfill and delight our customers. 