Overhead cranes are also called industrial cranes, they lift and move heavy loads horizontally. They have very high lifting capacities and cover rectangular area moving either forward or backward. They also have the ability to move materials in multi directions within the area and support manufacturing, storage, loading, and unloading within the facility.

Overhead cranes are used in applications like assembly, transportation, staging, storage, and warehousing. They benefit the work process in many ways by saving time and eliminating human error, thus increasing productivity. Without overhead cranes, it is difficult to imagine industries such as automotive, beverage, chemicals, commercial printing, manufacturing, newspaper, paper, steel, warehousing, and distribution. The overhead crane manufacturers are continuously working on their design to make it more efficient and safer.

How many different types of cranes are there

Since cranes are designed and built for specific weight load capacity a single crane cannot be utilized for various tasks. Calculating crane capacity is required to operate the crane without dropping the load or damaging the machine.

Different types of cranes are manufactured by crane companies based on the application and modern industrial needs.

How many different types of cranes are there

The overhead crane has a lifting device called a hoist which is mounted on a trolley across the bridge beam and is then connected to horizontal girders supported at either end by end carriages.

The overhead crane can be operated either manually or by electrically that guides their pathway.

The overhead cranes are designed to have a steady movement operating with maximum load control following other safety measures.

Ten things to know before purchasing an Overhead Crane

There are some important factors that you need to consider before installing an overhead crane to improve productivity and safety at the facility. Any compromise in the factors may lead to a fatal accident and a huge loss to your business. An overhead crane installation is a big investment so you should know important things before investment. A crane advisor or crane supplier will help you with the following information.

1. Capacity

Calculate the maximum and minimum capacity based on your application as operating a crane above the rated capacity can cause unwanted wear and tear on the machine parts. So installing a crane with the right capacity will help in extending the crane's life and also helps in deciding the duty cycle.

2. Speed

The crane's hoist speed varies depending on the load capacity. Some applications need more speed while some applications need less speed. Some overhead cranes are designed for variable speeds that can be set based on the application.

3. Duty Cycle

A crane can have a light to medium to heavy to extremely heavy duty cycle and it depends on the application operating in a single shift or multiple shifts. If a crane is used at the maintenance center then it will have a light-duty cycle whereas in production it will have a heavy-duty cycle. Depending on the application you should choose the crane and add the required components to it.

4. Safety Issues

One of the important factors to consider while installing a crane. Adding smart technology to the crane increase safety and productivity at the facility. Make sure the crane you purchase is equipped with the latest technologies rather than outdated ones. Variable frequency drive for the crane, trolley, and hoist motion is vital. Apart from this, a smart and skilled crane operator should be hired for the task.

5. Environmental conditions

The environmental condition of the facility matters, if the overhead crane is exposed to conditions like high/low temperature, humidity, heavy dust, chemicals, etc its performance is affected. In those environmental conditions, proper coating/shields should be added to ensure the safety and durability of the crane.

Heat and moisture, heat the motor during its operation.

6. Area Coverage

Discuss with your crane manufacturer or crane consultant on area coverage as this is one of the important factors. The hook approach helps to determine the area coverage of the overhead crane.

7. Lift Height Requirements

Lift height requirement is applied to both situations whether you are installing a new crane or upgrading the existing one. The lifting requirement can be restricted based on the height of the existing facility.

8. Power Supply

Overhead cranes require 3-phase AC power of 480V and a typically 50A breaker to operate, but if the number of cranes on the same runway increases the current breaker will be required more.

9. Warranty

You should carefully read and understand what are the things that are covered and don’t cover in the warranty of the crane along with the warranty period.

10. Service

Every machine requires maintenance and service to retain its quality, performance, and efficiency. The crane purchase does not end with only installation it should be regularly serviced. A crane service should also cover the inspection from a safety point of view.