Tag Archive: Overhead Bridge Cranes

1. Bridge Cranes Explained: Enhancing Industrial Lifting Efficiency

   September 5, 2024 11:19 am Leave a Comment

   

   At American Crane & Equipment Corporation (ACECO), we know that every industrial operation demands efficiency, reliability, and precision. Our bridge cranes are designed to meet these needs, providing a powerful and efficient way to handle heavy loads. Whether you’re moving materials across a factory floor or lifting equipment in a manufacturing facility, our bridge cranes ensure that your operations run smoothly and safely. Discover how bridge cranes enhance industrial lifting efficiency and streamline operations with tailored solutions for your unique needs.

   What is a Bridge Crane?

   A bridge crane, also known as an overhead crane, is a vital piece of equipment in many industrial environments. It consists of several key components:

   • Bridge: The bridge is the central structure of the crane, made up of girders, trucks, end ties, a walkway, and a drive mechanism. This structure spans the width of your workspace and supports the trolley, which carries the load. The bridge moves along a

   fixed runway, allowing the crane to transport materials efficiently across the area.

   • Bridge Girder: The bridge girder is the main horizontal structural member that supports the crane bridge. Supported by end trucks, the girder evenly distributes the load’s weight as the crane moves along the runway beams.

   How American Crane Supports Your Efficiency

   At ACECO, we design our bridge cranes to optimize your operations. Here’s how we support your efficiency:

   • Precision Handling: Our bridge cranes provide precise control over load movement, allowing you to position materials accurately. This precision minimizes the risk of damage and enhances safety, ensuring that your operations are both effective and secure.
   • Enhanced Safety: With our overhead cranes, the lifting and moving of heavy loads are automated, significantly reducing the risk of workplace injuries. We design our cranes to keep your team safe while managing large items from a safe distance.
   • Streamlined Workflow: Our bridge cranes enable quick and efficient material movement, reducing downtime and boosting productivity. We optimize your workflow from start to finish by tailoring our solutions to your specific needs.

   Partner with ACECO for Your Bridge Crane Needs

   At American Crane & Equipment Corporation, we are committed to providing material handling solutions that enhance your efficiency and safety. We build our bridge cranes to withstand the demands of your industry, whether you need a standard system or a custom solution tailored to your unique requirements.

   Let us help you elevate your operations. Request a quote today to learn more about how our bridge cranes can support your business. For personalized assistance or to explore our full range of products, contact us today. Don’t forget to visit our store to find the perfect material handling equipment for your needs.

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

   July 25, 2024 11:21 am Leave a Comment

   

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

   Single Girder Cranes

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

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

   Double Girder Cranes

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

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

   Choosing the Right Crane for Your Needs

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

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

3. Understanding CMAA Crane Classifications

   July 16, 2024 11:31 am Leave a Comment

   

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

   Crane & Hoist Classifications

   Class A – Infrequent or Standby Service

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

   Class B – Light Service

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

   Class C – Moderate Service

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

   Class D – Heavy Service

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

   Class E – Severe Service

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

   Class F – Continuous Severe Service

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

   Key Criteria for Crane Selection

   Consider the following criteria when selecting the right overhead crane:

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

   Quality and Reliability

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

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

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

4. Crane 101: Types of Cranes, Basic Terms and Structures

   July 9, 2024 11:35 am 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.

   Learn more: The Basics of Cranes and Hoists

   Basic Terms

   Crane Components

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

   Learn more: The Four Key Crane Components

   Structural Elements

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

   Load and Capacity

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

   Crane Movement

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

   Safety Features

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

   Glossary of Terms

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

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

5. How to Choose the Right Crane for Your Needs

   July 2, 2024 11:00 am 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.

   Additional Resources

   For further guidance, several buyer’s guides can help you specify the right crane and hoist. The Crane Manufacturers Association of American (CMAA) publishes comprehensive resources detailing design safety standards and specifications. These guides are available for free download from American Crane’s online Resource Center.

   American Crane also offers tailored publications: “How to Choose the Right Crane: A Crane Buyer’s Guide” and “How to Choose the Right Hoist: A Hoist Buyer’s Guide.” These documents provide a broader perspective on crane and hoist selection and are ideal for both novice and experienced buyers.

   Your Expert, Craftsman and Partner

   Leveraging the knowledge of experienced professionals is invaluable. Suppliers, manufacturers, and vendors with extensive expertise can help you evaluate your overhead handling options and determine the optimal solution for your needs. At American Crane, we are your expert, craftsman and partner – ready to assist you in finding the best crane and hoist combination. Connect with a project specialist today to get started on your investment journey.

   By considering these factors and utilizing available resources, you can confidently choose the right crane for specific needs, ensuring safety, efficiency, and long-term reliability.

6. ACECO: Your Trusted Source for Munck Parts

   November 8, 2023 10:05 am Leave a Comment

   

   For over 50 years American Crane & Equipment Corporation (ACECO) has been steadfastly dedicated to delivering excellence in both our products and customer service. We aim to be your trusted partner, providing you with the essential components you need precisely when you need them, minimizing downtime and enhancing operational efficiency. Munck Cranes Norway initiated bankruptcy proceedings in late May and while this development may raise concerns for companies reliant on sourcing Munck parts, rest assured that ACECO is fully prepared to assist you. We maintain an extensive inventory of Munck parts and are also equipped to procure required components not readily available in our stock.

   A Comprehensive Catalogue

   Our substantial inventory of Munck parts encompasses a wide array of components, including brakes, wheels, gears, and rope guides. These categories include brake covers and shock- absorbers, brake springs, brake drums and fans, crane wheels, trolley wheels, wheel axles, gear housing, gears for motors, gears for hoists, pinions and transmission gears, rope drums, rope sheaves and covers, rope guides and more.  This comprehensive inventory allows us to swiftly provide support when you need it most. To further enhance your experience, our user-friendly online store simplifies the search process, ensuring you can quickly locate the specific Munck part you require. Whether you’re dealing with downtime due to a damaged component or simply need a replacement to keep your operations running smoothly, you can count on ACECO to have you covered. Explore our online store here: https://store.americancrane.com/category/munck-parts-new

   Expertise That Sets Us Apart

   Our commitment to your satisfaction goes beyond stocking Munck crane parts. ACECO has a rich history of using Munck components in many of our overhead bridge cranes. This hands-on experience has given us in-depth knowledge of Munck parts, their functionality, and their importance to your operations. Chuck Freeman, a key member of our parts group and a former service technician, possesses 37 years of deep knowledge and experience with Munck parts. Freeman’s wealth of knowledge allows him to troubleshoot issues effectively and quickly identify the specific part that you need. This expertise gives ACECO a significant advantage over competitors who may lack access to Munck parts or the specialized knowledge required to support them. Send Chuck an email today at: cfreeman@americancrane.com

   Trust ACECO as Your Munck Parts Partner

   In a market where the availability of Munck parts is uncertain, ACECO stands as one of the few suppliers you can rely on. We are committed to ensuring your business has access to the essential components it needs for uninterrupted operations. Whether you require parts from our extensive inventory, a special order to meet unique requirements or the expertise of our dedicated parts team, ACECO is here to be your trusted and dependable source for parts.