Numerous types of cranes and similar devices have become integral parts of ports and shipyards throughout the years.

This includes the derrick. What is the real difference between a derrick and a crane? Is there one?

Learn more about this as we take a look at derrick vs. crane.

How They Are Similar

Before looking at how they differ, it helps to know their similarities. Both of them are hoisting machines that carry heavy loads, moving them around shipyards, construction sites, and factories.

The OSHA regulations for cranes apply to derricks since they are technically considered cranes. Both cranes and derricks have booms and use pulleys or sheaves to lift heavy objects.

Though many engineers use the words interchangeably because of their similarities, there are significant differences.

Identifying a Crane

The crane can move objects horizontally and vertically, offering efficient movement and a simple design.

There are two general categories of cranes: stationary and mobile. Stationary cranes cannot, as their name implies, move about, but they make up for this with the ability to carry heavier loads and adjust the length of the boom to move materials.

A stationary or fixed crane can be installed in one place. They are efficient, especially when transporting materials horizontally over a small distance. You can do this by adjusting the boom or rotating the crane.

A mobile crane is mounted on a track or wheels, allowing you to transport it from one location to another. They cannot handle loads that are as heavy as what a stationary crane can manage, but they allow you to place them where you need them.

You will find cranes in ports, factories, constructions sites, and more.

Identifying a Derrick

Like a crane, a derrick moves objects horizontally and vertically. They are made up of two or more simple machines that can lift large loads. These machines include pulleys or sheaves and hoisting mechanisms.

Unlike a crane, a derrick has a stationary mast and rises from the base. It also has a moveable boom. 

The boom has cables and sheaves (or pulleys), which guy wires stabilize and which you have to manipulate if you want to move an object from side to side. There are different setups for the mast, and you may even come across derricks with more than one mast and boom.

A derrick has its weight evenly distributed, allowing it to lift heavier loads than most cranes.

Places where you might see derricks are ports, oil rigs, and cargo ships.

Derrick vs. Crane: Which One Is the Right One?

The answer will depend on the job, where it will take place, how much mobility you need, and how heavy the loads are.

A crane is the best option for a job that requires moving from site to site. However, a derrick is a more efficient option for a stationary job because of its simple construction and evenly-distributed weight.

Maximize Your Machines

Whichever machine you prefer — derrick vs. crane, you want it to work efficiently as you tackle your next job.

Contact us to learn more about derrick and crane repair parts.

With the many types of electric cranes available in the market today, getting the best among them is easier said than done. To guide you on getting the best kind of crane, understand that there are two main types of cranes; mobile and fixed cranes.

As their name suggests, fixed cranes are cranes mounted on one specific location. Since they are immobile, fixed cranes are set at one particular place for the duration of a project.

Fixed cranes are likely to lift heavier goods to higher heights than electric cranes.

Examples of fixed cranes are jib cranes, gantry, and overhead cranes.

On the other hand, mobile cranes are portable since they are mounted on tires, crawlers, or trucks.

These cranes are the most popular in industries since moving them around for different tasks is possible.

Common mobile cranes are crawler cranes, rough terrain cranes, carry deck cranes and truck-mounted cranes.

How Do You Maintain an Electrical Crane?

Regardless of your type of crane, one thing is for sure; it is a considerable investment. For this reason, you should strive to preserve the condition of the crane to make it long-lasting and efficient.

How do you ensure that your electric crane is well maintained?

Lubricate It

Lubrication is critical for the proper functioning of any machine parts. Therefore, find the right amount of lubrication needed for your crane and how often you need it, and lubricate it to prevent wear and tear.

Remember to replace gear oil after the crane has worked for the specified number of hours. Always use quality oil and lubrication for proper maintenance of your crane.

Avoid Rusting

Although most cranes are resistant to rusting and corrosion, elements such as weather may result in rusting. This can damage sensitive crane parts, thus affecting its performance.

Therefore, ensure that you implement maintenance skills that prevent rusting of any parts.

Frequent Examination

Minor problems with the electric crane could result in fatal repercussions. For this reason, frequently examine the machine and get crane repair services where necessary.

If the crane is used frequently, have a routine examination by a professional at least three times per year. On the other hand, if it is not frequently used, you can check it once or twice a year.

Are You in Need of an Electrical Crane?

Electrical cranes are heroes in many industries. It is an investment that will help boost efficiency and safety in your industry.

Contact us for more information on electrical cranes and get the electrical crane right for you.

The Ancient Greeks invented cranes in the 6th century or earlier. Since then, we have relied on cranes to build our most significant structures.

And the hydraulic crane is the most efficient of all. You can apply constant torque at any speed. And they are simple to control and maintain.

Let’s take a look at how hydraulic cranes work.

The Basics of Hydraulics

Hydraulic systems change mechanical energy into hydraulic energy, then back to mechanical again. They use pistons, cylinders, and pressure to do this.

Oil is the most common hydraulic fluid. It is hard to compress, which makes it ideal for this purpose. Its viscosity is vital, as is its availability and cost.

The first piston pushes this fluid down. This displacement puts pressure on a piston at the other end of the cylinder. The second piston then moves up or out. This movement drives the crane’s lifting system.

Hydraulics avoid the heat generated by mechanical means. They bypass the friction of metal-on-metal systems giving them an advantage.

They are quieter and easier to maintain. They can generate more lifting power with less wasted energy than mechanical systems. 

Parts of a Hydraulic Crane System

Both hydraulic truck cranes and fixed cranes use a boom and jib to lift loads. The boom can extend on most models. The jib attaches to the end of the boom,  increasing reach.

A counterweight sits at the opposite end to the jib. This balances the upper parts of the crane while it lifts loads.

Most hydraulic truck cranes have outriggers. These beams extend out to the ground stabilizing the crane.

Then there is the hydraulic lifting system and its pump.

Types of Hydraulic Crane Pumps

There are two main types of hydraulic pumps: gear pumps and variable-displacement pumps.

The gear pump is the most common. But the precision of variable-displacement pumps suits some projects. So let’s take a look at how both work.

Gear Pumps

Most cranes use gear pumps to displace hydraulic fluid between pistons. These are the more affordable options, and their simplicity can make repairing cranes easier. 

Two interlocking gears move a piston to put pressure on hydraulic fluid. This pressure moves the opposite piston.

They are simple to operate. More engine power equals more hydraulic pressure and greater lifting capacity.

Variable-Displacement Pumps

Variable-displacement pumps have piston cylinders joined to a ring within a barrel. This barrel spins, rotating the cylinders. A swashplate drives the first pistons in and out.

This motion displaces fluid in the cylinders. This pressure moves the opposite pistons out, driving the lifting mechanism.

The crane operator can change the fluid flow rate and outlet pressure giving them more precision when lifting. 

This control comes at a cost. Variable-displacement pumps are more expensive and harder to repair than gear pumps. 

Need Hydraulic Crane Parts or Repairs? 

Hydraulic cranes are invaluable tools for efficient lifting. Maintenance helps keep them that way.

But components wear with use. So to keep your hydraulic crane at its best, you might need new parts from time to time.

At Kor-Pak, we stock a huge selection of parts for various cranes. And if you need a professional to fit them, we can service your crane for you.

Contact us today to find what you need.

Did you know that one of the most common issues port cranes deal with is chain link problems? The links can start cracking from overuse or even improper use.

If you want to have ship-to-shore cranes that work efficiently, you need to know how each of their parts works. That will let you know when they are not working correctly.

Read on for a look at the essential parts of port cranes.

Main Boom

This is the part of the port crane that hangs over the ship. The main boom has a hinge above the quay to be lifted, giving space for the ship to move as it needs to. If the crane is smaller and used near airports, where visibility is critical, low-profile booms work best because you can pull them toward the crane when not in use.

Supporting Frame of Port Cranes

This is the structure that holds the boom and the spreader. It is significant, and when on the jetty and performing transverse movements, the frame can be on rubber wheels or rail mounted.

The boogie wheelsets are under the crane’s legs, and you can expect the crane to have eight wheels per corner.

Spreader

The spreader is attached to the rail structure and the operator’s cabin. It can also move transversely on the boom when lifting cargo, and it is connected to the trolley with cables.

This is the part of the crane that lifts the containers. Depending on the number of containers, it can open and close as needed. Some of them can lift up to four containers at the same time.

Trolley

This is the part that supports the spreader and the operator’s cabin. Finally, a trolley supports the mechanism that lets it ride over the boom while also supporting the hoisting mechanism.

Legs

The crane’s legs generate its height. The more modern cranes have higher legs since the stacking of containers has risen. So you can expect up to eleven containers stacked one on top of the other above decks; the crane has to accommodate that height.

The waterside leg, or WS, is thicker than the landside leg, or LS. This is because the WS has to withstand more moment forces.

Power Supply and Cable Reel

A port crane usually has two kinds of power supplies: the diesel generator powered by an engine and rests at the top of the crane and the electric power from the dock and the terminal facilities.

Cables create the electrical connection, and they lay in large gutters over the quay. When the crane moves, the motorized reel rolls them on or off.

Keep Your Equipment Working

By knowing the parts of port cranes and how they function concerning the rest, you will know when something is off. If you see parts that need repairs, turn to the experts for help.

Contact us today for repair parts!

Every year, more than 11 million containers arrive at US ports. Moving these containers from the ships coming to the mainland requires one extraordinary piece of equipment: a ship-to-shore crane.

Without these cranes, it would be impossible to get containers to where they need to be. But what makes them different from other kinds of cranes?

Read on to learn about ship-to-shore cranes.

What They Are

Ship-to-shore cranes, also known as quay cranes, can transport a container to and from a ship and are located on the port’s quayside for this purpose.

These kinds of cranes come in two types: high and low profiles.

The high-profile crane has an A-frame and a hinged boom that makes navigating ships easier when leaving the dock or berthing. On the other hand, the low-profile crane has a fixed boom made to load containers on and off the boat.

The low-profile cranes are the better option near airports or other locations where the cranes might otherwise block passage.

How Ship-to-Shore Cranes are Powered

These cranes usually have two motors, using alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC). However, you can expect most of them to use AC motors since they provide more reliable power and higher torque than the DC options.

Port cranes require different motors because of the various specific crane functions they must perform. For example, some motors provide power for the hoisting maneuver, while others focus on the gantry and trolley or moving the boom.

Depending on the ship classes, there are different types of crane sizes. As you may expect, large ships require larger cranes, which, in turn, need larger motors to function.

A boom motor, for example, can offer 100-500 kW of power, while you can expect a hoist motor to produce anything from 200-1000 kW. Keep in mind that if you are not getting that much power.

How Much Can a Port Crane Lift?

On average, a ship-to-shore crane can lift 40-80 metric tons. There are instances where a quay crane may lift even up to 120 metric tons, but that is not the standard capacity.

A port crane’s efficiency is measured in the number of “moves” it can perform in a given amount of time. A move is equal to an entire movement of a container from the ship to the port or from the port to the ship.

The speed and motor power of a crane will substantially influence how many moves the crane can perform. Most cranes can make between 30 to 50 moves per hour.

Get the Most Out of Your Port Crane

If you notice that the ship-to-shore cranes you depend on are not working efficiently, it may be time for new parts or repairs.

Contact us today to speak with an expert.

Did you know that an overhead crane can last anywhere from 20 to 30 years? Exactly how long you have a functioning crane can depend on several factors, including maintenance and repairs.

By providing adequate upkeep, you can catch damage early and prevent it from getting worse. But what warning signs do you have to watch?

Read on to learn when to turn to an overhead crane repair expert for help.

Bent Hooks

When the weight of the material the crane picks up is not balanced correctly on the hook, it can cause the hook to bend or crack. A damaged hook will make picking up the next load more difficult and even dangerous.

After using the crane, you need to look at the hook. If you see that it is bent or cracked, this is a sign you need crane parts.

Snapped Chain Links

A crane spends hours lifting heavy material, and this can cause a weakening in the chain links. If not caught early, this weakening will only get worse, and you will end up with snapped chain links.

Sometimes, chain links are crushed, which is more challenging to recognize. A snapped or crushed link can weaken the entire crane structure, making a regular inspection of the machine’s chains vital.

Rusted Parts

If you notice rusted crane parts, you will need to get replacements. Like anything with moving metal parts, a crane is prone to rust. The most common parts prone to rust are joints, bearings, and wires.

Rusted parts can prevent the crane from working as efficiently as possible and can even pose a danger to the operators. So the moment you see one, consider replacing the rusted part.

Dry and Frayed Wire Rope

A crane uses a wire to move the loads of materials steadily. If the wire is not lubricated enough, it can start fraying and snap.

Extreme temperatures can affect the wire, drying it out much more rapidly than would otherwise happen. If you notice any fraying, you need to call an expert.

Worn Clutch or Brakes

In the same way, you would check the clutch and brakes in any other vehicle; you need to do so with a crane. Brakes that do not function efficiently make operating a crane dangerous.

You will want to inspect the brakes. If they are worn, then relining them can extend their life.

Overhead Crane Repair: How to Prevent Problems

To catch issues when they start and before they get worse, you need regular maintenance checks on your tower crane or mobile crane.

Avoid overloading the crane and take time when loading to ensure you do so correctly.

Most importantly, get specialists to come and inspect the crane and, if you need repair parts, buy only from the best.

Keep Your Crane Running

Your overhead crane is an essential piece of equipment, and you want to have it running correctly. Reach out to overhead crane repair experts for parts and maintenance.

Call us now to schedule a crane inspection. 

The world’s tallest and strongest mobile crane, Liebherr 11200-9.1, can lift to 1,179 tons and reach up to 550 feet. The most beneficial attribute of the crane is that this mobile crane is attached to an 18-wheeler truck, making it easy to move around and readjust.

The most significant benefit of the mobile crane is that you can move it around, and it’s not fixed to one spot when you set it up. So if you need a crane for multiple sites, you can buy or rent one crane and move it around between sites.

Another benefit of the mobile construction crane is that it can be used for heavy lifting and fitting into smaller spots, doing precision lifts and squeezing inside buildings, and can help with moving furniture, pools, and more.

Mobile cranes are more compact, so they can fit into smaller places while still doing the heavy lifting.

Lastly, you will save time and see less cost for mobile cranes. They require less setup because they’re on a full moving truck; they can get to a job quickly and get right to work.

This, in turn, leads to less of a cost because there isn’t a lot that anyone needs to do to set it up.

Fixed Crane

A fixed or tower crane needs to be set up and remain in one spot when lifting on a site. The most significant advantage of the fixed crane is that it is very stable.

You will never have to worry about it moving in the middle of something being lifted, and they remain sturdy. The tower crane lives up to its name and can reach greater heights than some mobile cranes.

Depending on the thing and the mobile crane, they can also lift heavier objects.

It all comes down to what your construction site needs. There are strengths to both types of cranes, and you will want to weigh your options before choosing a crane.

Choose the Right Crane for Your Site

Now that you know the benefits of both the mobile construction crane and the fixed crane, you can evaluate what your site is looking for.

If you need something mobile that can fit tight places and still lift heavy objects, the mobile crane is the way to go. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a crane that needs to reach great heights, stay in one spot, and lift very large objects, the fixed crane is your best bet.

Start listing what your site needs in a crane or read more about cranes here.

Constructions sites regularly utilize heavy machinery to get tasks done and move objects from one place to another. One of the most widely-used cranes in these operations is a hammerhead crane. 

A hammerhead crane can carry several tons of weight and remains a go-to resource when construction workers are tasked with picking up, storing, and transporting heavy loads. 

What is a Hammerhead Crane?

A hammerhead crane is a heavy-duty lifting system designed to accurately and safely interact with hefty objects. Hammerhead cranes are used on the heaviest loads on any construction site. 

For this reason, hammerhead cranes are immensely popular and used throughout the world. Due to their unique design, these instruments can carry weighty loads, saving construction workers and managers substantial time and money. 

Also, hammerhead cranes can reduce workplace injuries. By handling heavy loads that can be dangerous to people, construction sites can remain in federal safety compliance and keep all involved parties safe.

When Should You Use a Hammerhead Crane?

Using a hammerhead crane isn’t the last resort option. It can be utilized in certain situations, such as:

• When you need to hold very heavy loads in the air for an extended time
• When you need to carry heavy loads and place them accurately in a designated location 
• When you don’t have the proper equipment for carrying heavy loads 

More often than not, when you use a hammerhead crane, you can avoid the difficulty of being inconvenienced by heavy machinery that will take up space. 

Benefits of Using a Hammerhead Crane

If you’re considering purchasing overhead crane parts to start using your hammerhead crane, the good news is that your decision will be worth it. There are several key reasons why using a hammerhead crane will be beneficial in maximizing the productivity of your construction site.

These benefits include:

• Using a hammerhead crane can save you lots of time in moving heavy machinery.
• With more productivity, you can boost workplace morale with a hammerhead crane.
• Using a hammerhead crane means you can complete construction projects must faster.

As you can see, there are many benefits associated with using a hammerhead crane. If you have this instrument on your construction site, it’s important to perform a crane inspection to ensure the hammerhead crane is in working order.

Otherwise, purchasing overhead crane parts from a trusted provider is your next best step in getting the most from your hammerhead crane. 

Need Hammerhead Crane Parts?

If you want to start using your hammerhead crane but know you need the necessary parts, you’ve come to the right place. Visit our website to browse our selection of crane parts. 

A jib crane can help busy teams stay on top of production quotas or smooth out complex logistical challenges during construction. In addition, jib cranes enable teams to perform repetitive lifting in a small working area. 

A jib crane can be used alongside an overhead bridge crane or alone. In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about jib crane parts!

Types of Cranes

There are many different types of cranes, and each type has various advantages, disadvantages and serves a variety of ideal functions. Here are some examples.

Freestanding Jib Cranes

A freestanding jib crane is the most typical type of jib system. You can install one anywhere. Usually, they support 360° of rotation and boom heights up to 40’. They typically have a capacity that ranges up to 15 tonnes.

They can be base-plate mounted, foundation or insert mounted, or sleeve-insert mounted. Freestanding jib cranes provide teams with the highest weight capacities, most durability, and most rotation.

The main drawback of this crane style is the cost, as they can be the most expensive and are complex to anchor to one of the foundation systems mentioned above. 

Foundationless Jib Cranes

Foundationless jib cranes are slab-mounted. They are bolted to 6” reinforced concrete for indoor use. As a result, they are less expensive because they don’t require any special, poured concrete foundation installation and can be installed almost anywhere. 

That also makes them easier to relocate if you want to move them. 

Usually, they support 360° of rotation and boom heights up to 20’. In addition, they typically have a capacity that ranges up to 1,000 lbs. 

Their main drawback is they have a much lower weight capacity than freestanding jib cranes due to their differing foundation style.

Mast Type Jib Cranes

Mast-type jib cranes are more inexpensive because they only require 6” of concrete to support them. In addition, they have extra support from an overhead support beam or other complementary structures. 

Usually, they support 360° of rotation and boom heights up to 40’. They typically have a capacity that ranges up to 10 tonnes.

There are two styles of mast-type jib cranes called full cantilever and drop cantilever. Each has relative pros and cons, with the full cantilever mast-type jib crane providing the most lifting capacity and clearance. 

Wall-Mounted Jib Cranes

Wall-mounted jib cranes use existing walls or building support columns as their foundational anchor. As a result, they don’t require additional foundation support and can even use the underside of a ceiling as a mount.

They swing around obstacles, under obstructions, and can even fold out of the way which is very convenient. Usually, they support 180° to 200° of rotation and boom heights up to 30’. They typically have a capacity that ranges up to 5 tonnes.

Articulating Jib Cranes

Articulating jib cranes are different from the other cranes in this list because they have two swivel arms that can lift loads around corners and columns instead of just one boom. They can also reach into or under machinery and containers. 

There is a range of mounting and foundation styles for this type of crane. Usually, they support up to 200° of swivel and 360° of rotation and boom heights up to 30’. They typically have a capacity that ranges up to 1 tonne.

Their biggest disadvantage is that they cannot bear heavy loads or repetitive work as well as the other crane styles.

Overhead Crane Parts

If you look at a crane parts diagram, you should see all the jib crane components and terms, including reach/boom, mast/pillar, movable electric hoist, trolley, rotation, controls, hook height, rotation stops, and more.

Crane Inspection Essentials

All cranes are regulated by the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) 1910.179 standard and should be inspected regularly. For the full checklist, take a look at the OSHA website. It’s vital to comply with these standards to avoid fines and ensure safety. 

Jib Crane Parts

If you want to learn more about jib crane parts for the respective types of jib cranes, we can help. 

Contact us today if you have any questions or want to know more about our products or services.