Bridge cranes are also known as overhead cranes. They can be divided into two basic categories based on the design of their beam: single girder & double girder.
When selecting a bridge crane, several factors must be taken into account:
- Cost
- Capacity
- Safety
- Maintenance
But what do you look at when picking a bridge or overhead crane? Read on to find out.
Cost
Overhead cranes or bridge cranes are widely used as a material handling solution in industrial and commercial settings around the world. Not only do they offer cost-effective transportation of heavy loads, but they can also reduce labour hours and enhance worker safety.
Selecting a crane for your facility can be daunting due to all the available options. But it’s essential that you select the right system that meets all of your requirements.
One of the most critical factors to take into account when lifting is your load capacity requirements. Achieving proper capacity is key for lifting efficiently and safely.
Low load capacity could result in costly damage and repairs, while a high capacity would impede operations and waste valuable time.
Other elements to take into account when selecting your crane include its operating environment, duty cycle and speed limits for hoist, trolley and bridge.
Capacity
The maximum load, a crane, can safely lift is its rated capacity. This number plays an integral role in any material handling system.
When selecting a bridge crane, several factors must be taken into account: its service classification or duty cycle, as well as its operating environment.
When your facility requires more lifting capacity than what can be provided by existing equipment, upgrading may be the answer. Moreover, doing so could prove cost-effective in the long run.
Bridge crane capacity is measured in terms of the maximum load it can safely lift. In America, CMAA trade organisation specifications exist for various components within a crane.
Safety
When selecting a bridge crane, it is essential to keep the safety of workers in mind. Cranes are intricate machines that can cause serious injuries or even death.
Employees should wear appropriate protective clothing when operating a crane and stand far away from the load to prevent injury while lifting or lowering it. This helps ensure everyone’s safety when using this heavy machine.
Additionally, they should never use the crane to drag or sideload their load as this places excessive strain on its turntable and boom, potentially leading to their breakdown.
Crane operators should carefully observe all standard hand signals for crane operations. Doing so allows them to communicate with the floor person and guarantee that loads are lifted safely.
Maintenance
Bridge cranes are invaluable in warehouses or workshops for lifting heavy objects. However, it’s essential that they’re regularly maintained to avoid becoming a safety hazard and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Cranes should be maintained according to their manufacturer’s recommendations for optimal efficiency and extended lifespan, protecting employees who use them.
Daily inspections are essential to identify any issues that need fixing before they cause harm. Not only does this reduce unplanned downtime, but it can also save you money in the long run by uncovering hidden issues.
Every time they begin a shift on the crane, operators should conduct pre-operation inspections. This allows them to examine the trolley, hoists, hook chains, and other operating mechanisms of the machine.
