General Overview - Overhead Crane Part 1

Cranes are industrial machines that are mainly used for materials movements in construction sites, production halls, assembly lines, storage areas, power stations and similar places. Their design features vary widely according to their major operational specifications such as: type of motion of the crane structure, weight and type of the load, location of the crane, geometric features, operating regimes and environmental conditions.

When selecting an electric overhead traveling crane, there are a number of requirements to be taken into account.

1) What specifications, codes or local regulations are applicable?
2) What crane capacity is required?
3) What is the required span?
4) What is the lift required by the hoist?
5) What will be the duty cycle (usage) of the crane?
6) What is the hoist weight? Do you need the use of a second hoist on the bridge crane?
7) What is the hook approach required?
8) What length of runway system is desired?
9) What factors need to be considered in the design of runway and building structure?
10) What will the operating environment be (dust, paint fumes, outdoor, etc)?
11) What are the necessary crane and trolley speeds?
12) What is the supply voltage/phases/amperage?
13) What control system is desired?
14) Is there existing cranes on the runway?

15) What safety considerations are to be followed?

16) Consider maintenance aspects of the crane.

17) Consider other accessories such as lights, warning horns, weigh scales, limit switches, etc.

But before we discuss further, you have need to know a general clarity of the terminology used in the overhead crane industry.

Ok..wait for the next post..see you!!