Your Guide to Buying a Tower Crane and Sourcing Parts

When looking to buy tower cranes, there is a lot to consider besides the crane brand. For the most part, the tower crane parts play an essential factor in hooking in buyers.

Here are some of the tower crane parts to factor in when deciding which crane to buy.

The Boom

The boom of a crane is the long arm that moves the load. Booms can either be one solid piece or fold to extend and offer the crane better reach.

The height and radius of the farthest load pick-up will determine how long your tower crane’s jib will be. If the construction is vertical, you will need a lift with a longer jib length. In calculating the required length, consider fixed obstructions on or near the job site, such as high power lines, buildings, and bridges.

Hoist

It’s best to check the hoist power capacity. Be sure the hoist has enough power to pick up the heaviest load at the greatest building height.

The hoist of a crane holds, raises, and lowers the load using wire rope or chains, creating the lifts. Hoists can be hand-powered, electrically powered, or powered with compressed air. Choosing a suitable hoist is essential to have a system that will meet your lifting needs.

Hook

The hook that connects to the hoist supports the crane’s load. It’s worth noting how powerful and fast the hook line of your tower crane is for work efficiency.

In doing so, always consider the hoist speed of a standard lift and the weight of a typical load. High line speeds are significant with tall buildings and useless on buildings with five floors and below.

Hydraulic Pump

Various parts of a crane use hydraulic pressure function and lift weighted loads around. Most cranes use a hydraulic pump system that uses two rotating gears to pressurize oil. In a gear pump, you will have to run the engine at full power to get high pressure.

It’s worth noting that piston pumps are among the most efficient hydraulic pump and is a good basis when choosing your tower crane.

Controls

An important tower crane part is the controls which are either mounted, battery-powered, or a hanging pendant. The controls run the drive and hoist motors to control the hoist and the speed. Remote pendants retrofit most crane systems, and so remote operation is a safer alternative in many situations.

Learn More About Tower Crane Parts Today!

These are only some of the basic things you will have to consider when buying a tower crane. Why stop here when you can keep learning about tower cranes.

Don’t know where to find more information on tower crane parts? Don’t worry; we`re here for you. Contact us and let us know how we can help you!

3 Things Your Crane Service Should Cover

Your crane is essentially your business’s right hand when it’s time to tackle a construction project. And fortunately, up to now, your crane has been running like a dream. 

The question is, how can you keep it from becoming a nightmare?

Research shows that from 2011 to 2015, more than 200 people died in crane-related accidents. That’s equivalent to more than 40 people per year on average.

Unfortunately, these accidents can quickly happen if they are not maintained properly, which is why hiring a crane service company is a wise idea.

Here’s a rundown on three things your crane service company should cover when maintaining, checking, and servicing your cranes. 

1. Crane Wire Rope Degradation or Damage

A damaged or degraded wire rope is a common issue associated with overhead cranes, so be sure that your chosen crane service company evaluates your rope’s condition.

Several operating conditions may affect your rope, including stresses, bending, and loading conditions. The materials you handle, abrasion, and corrosion can also reduce your wire rope’s life.

Depending on your rope’s condition, it may need lubrication to protect it against friction and corrosion. Alternatively, it may need to be replaced. 

2. Worn Crane Brakes

Your crane brakes should also be regularly inspected by a professional. This is important because your drum brakes play a crucial role in your service performance, for example. In addition, your caliper disc brakes will help to keep loads from falling in emergencies.

Signs that your brakes require repair include a screeching or squeaking sound. In addition, you may notice that your brakes are not moving smoothly. Or you might notice your brakes looking rusty.

An inspector can help you to repair your brakes or to replace them to maximize your equipment’s efficiency and your workers’ safety. 

3. Damaged or Bent Crane Hooks

A crane inspection is also helpful for identifying damaged hooks, which can pose a significant safety risk.

If a crane hook cannot hold loads in precise directions due to bending or cracking, your loads may slip off. In addition, the hook could struggle with loads in the future or eventually break.

A crane service company can let you know if they see any cracks or bends in your hook, in which case a repair or replacement is in order.

How Our Crane Service Company Can Help

As a leading crane service company in Illinois, we take pride in conducting complete inspections of our valued clients’ overhead cranes.

As part of our inspections, we visually check the conditions of all structural components, switches, and electrical devices. In addition, we produce full written reports listing all safety, NEC, and OSHA deficiencies. We also highlight all recommended repairs, as well as quotations for labor and parts.

Get in touch with us to learn more about how we can keep your cranes operating in the top-tier condition in the months and years ahead.

How To Choose an Equipment or Machine Part Company

If you are running a construction project, you must have the right equipment to get the job done. This means choosing a high-quality machine part company that can provide you with the right parts for your cranes, hydraulic equipment, and industrial brakes, and more. Poor or mismatched equipment can result in significant downtime for your project, the costs of which can be devastating.

That is why knowing how to choose a machine part company that is right for your needs is an essential skill. If you are wondering where to get equipment parts, read on to find out how to choose an equipment or machine part company to help you deliver the results you want. 

1. Do They Offer the Machine Part You Need?

When shopping for machine and equipment parts, you must choose a vendor that can offer exactly the right parts that you need. A vendor might claim to offer crane parts, but that does not mean they will have the specific parts you need for the cranes on your building site. This principle is especially urgent if you work in a highly specialized industry such as oil rig construction, where even a single mismatched machine part can have catastrophic consequences.

2. What is Their Industry Experience? 

Even if you have found machine part companies that offer the equipment you are looking for, this does not mean they are right for you. It is important to confirm that they have proven industry experience within your sector. For example, a machine part company offering brakes for shipyard cranes might not have any experience in residential construction. It will therefore be unable to understand your machine part needs fully. 

3. Do They Have a Reputation for Quality?

There are thousands of machine part providers located across the US. Not all of these are created equal. A company might offer what you are looking for on paper, but this does not mean they have the technical expertise or customer service skills to back it up. Always seek out testimonials and reviews from previous customers. Do not hesitate to ask a seller of machine parts to provide you with references from former clients. 

4. Do They Offer Affordable Parts and Services?

On any construction project, wafer-thin margins are a constant consideration. Shop around for machine parts that you want to get an idea of what the standard prices are. A good provider should have a transparent and reasonable pricing model. 

5. Will They Be There if Things Go Wrong?

Finally, it is important to confirm that your relationship with a machine part company does not end once you have paid the invoice. If machine parts suddenly begin to break down or do not deliver what was promised, they should be on-call to help rectify the situation. Always confirm that your machine parts have a warranty attached to them and that a vendor will provide support when needed. 

Choose a Quality Machine Part Purveyor Today 

To find out more about the parts and services we offer, get in touch with our team of industry professionals today. 

 

5 Signs You Need New Belt Drives for Your Equipment

Drive belts are an essential part of any machine. And, if you’ve had your machinery for a while and you’re experiencing drives that are noisy or worn down, it’s time to look into a new one. Learn more in our guide of 5 signs you need new belt drives for your equipment.

What Are Belt Drives?

Belt Drives are an essential part of any machine. Their job is to transfer power from one point to another, making them crucial for several different pieces of equipment. Belt drives are critical in some types of machinery that you can’t operate without them.

They are usually very durable and reliable, but they can wear out or develop problems that may need addressing by replacing them with a new belt drive over time.

Signs You Need a New Belt Drive

There are many different tell-tale signs that you need a new belt drive, but sometimes you have to look beyond the belt itself and notice behavior patterns.

1. Look for Cracking or Worn Seams

When you’re working with machinery, it’s vital to pay attention to any signs of damage. Although most belt drives will last you for a very long time, it’s essential to be aware of any damage that may occur, even if it’s not causing issues at this time.

2. Look for Worn Out Belts

A worn-out belt drive that’s left to break down can cause severe damage. It will make noise and may be more challenging to replace. If you notice that your belts are wearing out, it’s time to start looking into a new set of belt drives for your equipment.

3. Look for a Worn Out Muffler

A belt drive with a worn-out muffler will bump and make noise as it moves over the pulleys. This wear may be the first sign of damage and a reason to start looking at new belt drives so your equipment can stay running smoothly.

4. Look for Issues With Synchronization

Synchronization refers to the way the belts are attached to and move over their respective pulleys. When a belt drive is out of synchronization, you can hear it humming and making much noise as it progresses.

5. Look for Foreign Objects on the Belts

If you notice small metal particles on the belts, that may be a sign of damage. Small debris gets stuck in the belt drive’s teeth, and it can also cause wear and tear or cause breakage.

Belt Drive Replacement Can Be Expensive

Remember, once your belt goes, you might damage the other parts of the machinery simultaneously. Going with a new belt drive can be a lot more cost-effective in the long run. A new belt drive can also prevent wear and tear on other parts of your machine by stressing the movement off of them.

Besides, by maintaining your belt drive, you’ll ensure that all your money will be worth more than if you neglected it and caused more damage than necessary.

If you need more advice on your belt drives, contact us today, and we can discuss your options.

Your Guide to Crane Clutch and Brake Brands

There are over 100,000 cranes in operation today. If your company uses a crane often, maintenance is a crucial aspect of your operation.

This means making sure their brakes and clutches are up-to-date and in working condition. 

You need reliable crane brake brands to make sure you’ve got someone to contact whenever your cranes need new parts. But where should you even look to find reliable crane brake brands?

That’s what we’ll be looking at today. In this crane brake buying guide, we’ll be discussing when you need a new brake and clutch, as well as some of the best industrial brake and clutch brands out there today. 

When You Should Buy a New Brake

When you notice that your brake is taking longer than usual to respond, it might be time to buy a new one. If you hear grinding or squeaking sounds, that’s also another sign that you should purchase a new brake. 

If there’s any sign of rust or wear-and-tear, it might also be time for a new crane brake. Additionally, if you feel like your crane isn’t moving as smoothly, it could be the brakes. 

When You Should Buy a New Clutch

If you notice a jerking or shuddering sensation when you engage the clutch, that’s one of the first signs that you need a replacement. Furthermore, if the clutch is becoming harder to depress, it could be time for a new one. 

Once your clutch begins to wear out, switching gears will become harder. This can cause a whole host of problems and should be addressed immediately.

Best Crane Clutch and Brake Resources

So, you need good crane clutch and brake brands — here should you turn?

Here are some top companies producing crane clutch and brakes today:

Antec

Antec is a reliable company whose roots began in designing and manufacturing industrial brakes. Their vast knowledge and experience make them one of the world’s leaders in hydraulic and electromagnetic technology. 

Some of their products include electromagnetic drum brakes and disc brakes. But their bread and butter remain crane brakes, which they’ve been producing for over 50 years. 

Hindon

Hindon specializes in producing high-quality industrial products, including fail-safe industrial crane brakes. They’ve been at it since 1983, making them seasoned professionals in crane brake and clutch manufacturing. 

They also provide excellent industrial brake repairs and other reliable products as well. 

Eaton

Eaton produces their very own Airflex series, which uses air-actuated disc clutches and spring-applied disc brakes for their clutches and brakes.

The Airflex crane brakes and clutches are extremely reliable. Eaton provides excellent customer support to help companies across multiple industries succeed with their clutch and brake products. 

Kor-Pak

Kor-Pak is an industrial crane and brake specialist, offering a wide range of products in all kinds of sizes, torque, styles, and applications. They also produce custom brakes and clutches.

With a customer-centric approach, Kor-Pak helps your company run at optimal efficiency with its excellent clutches and brakes. 

Leverage High-Quality Crane Brakes and Clutches Today

Finding high-quality brake brands can be tough, much less choosing from them. Use this guide to narrow down your search and find your optimal crane brake and clutch resource!

Looking for more informative articles on the crane industry? Check out the rest of our blog!

What To Look for in a Construction Equipment Repair Company

When tallying your construction project’s costs, you cannot neglect the cost of construction equipment repair and maintenance. Unfortunately, construction equipment wears and tears over time, owing to the intense nature of the work they are designed to perform.

Maintenance for construction equipment can easily cost tens of thousands of dollars a year and is a largely unavoidable expense that must be factored into your delivery estimates. That is why knowing how to choose the right construction equipment repair and maintenance company is essential. If you ask, “do I need to repair my construction equipment?” read on to find out how to choose the right company. 

1. The Reputation of the Company

When it comes to construction equipment maintenance, it is essential to choose a provider with a strong industry and previous customers’ reputation. There are thousands of maintenance companies across the US, and not all are created equal. If you consider a particular company, do not hesitate to ask them to provide references from previous clients and customers. Also, make sure to consult online reviews and on-site testimonials to make sure a company can deliver.

2. The Construction Equipment Repair Experience

Even if a construction equipment maintenance and repair company has a stellar track record of success, this will not do you much good if that company has no experience dealing with the equipment you operate on your construction site. Always check that a company has a proven track record of fixing and repairing the exact models of equipment that you use. Construction equipment repair is a highly specialized field, and your maintenance company must be familiar with your equipment. 

3. Transparency 

When deciding where to fix my construction equipment, transparency is also key. A company should be upfront about what they can do and how much they will charge you. They will be honest about the length of time it will take to maintain and repair your equipment, as well as the amount of site downtime that will result from their activities. If you get the impression that a maintenance provider is not forthcoming with the information you need, consider looking elsewhere. 

4. Pricing and Value for Money 

At the end of the day, your bottom line is the most important consideration. As mentioned, construction equipment repair and maintenance will be a significant outgoing cost that will eat into your budget. Therefore, it is essential to get the absolute best value for money that you can. Remember that maintenance and repair is an investment that will improve the efficiency of your project. That is why you should not cut corners. Instead, you should be striking a delicate balance between high-quality service and competitive pricing. The best way to do this is by choosing a reputable company that is open to negotiation. 

Choose a Trustworthy Repair and Maintenance Company 

If you need construction equipment repair and maintenance now, you have come to the right place. Today, to access expert, trustworthy, and affordable repair services today, do not hesitate to contact our team. 

5 Signs It’s Time To Call a Crane Repair Service

Cranes are a tool that you rely on when out on the job site. If they aren’t performing their best, it can be a liability and downright dangerous.

Regular maintenance and crane repair services are needed to keep your job site as safe as possible; This will help ensure that your employees are safe and that your cranes are in top working conditions.

Have you been wondering what might indicate that you need crane repair? We’ll cover five different signs to be on the lookout for in this article.

1. Crane Rope Issues

What’s a crane without its much-needed rope? To work safely and efficiently, this rope needs lots of maintenance to keep it working its best.

There are many types of issues that can take place with ropes, so it’s essential to monitor them. This will ensure that they’re strong and in good condition.

Like many other parts, ropes can start to age and fail. This can lead to them breaking or snapping when trying to pick uploads. If you start to notice fraying or any kinks, be sure to take action right away. This is a significant indicator that you need crane repairs soon.

2. Broken Hoses

As you know, there are many types of hoses, such as hydraulic hoses, that are needed to make a crane operate normally. Issues can start to arise when those hoses become damaged or bloated.

Before starting up the crane, it’s good practice to check up on the hoses. If you notice any abnormalities with them, it’s a good time to get them checked to be sure they are repaired.

Hoses that need repairs can appear deformed, or at worst, they can be broken. It’s an issue that will need attention from the best crane repair service as soon as possible.

3. Damaged Parts

Even the most minor parts of a crane can affect performance if they aren’t up to par.

Something as simple as a loose bolt can cause issues if it’s not caught in time. Broken pins are another big issue that can start to take a toll on the machine.

Keeping an eye out for these broken parts can help you get the necessary repairs before something else has the chance to fail too.

4. Pad Issues

Cranes have many pads that need attention and care throughout their lifespan. As time goes on, they’ll start to wear down and cause problems with the machine.

Worn pads can cause unnecessary noise and difficult operations. If you or your staff start to notice that your crane isn’t performing as it used to or you hear odd sounds, you’ll need to call in a crane repair service.

5. Corrosion

As your crane starts to age, corrosion is likely to happen. It can affect many parts, including the boom.

Corrosion can make the crane itself weak and dangerous to operate. This is why regular maintenance and crane repairs are essential to ensure that the crane is safe to operate. If it isn’t, then repairs will be needed.

Do I Need Crane Repair Service? Look For These Signs

If you notice any of these telling signs, be sure to call in a crane repair service. It will help give you peace of mind that the crane is working its best once again.

At Kor-Pak, we offer crane repair service and maintenance. We can also provide many new parts to keep your crane in working order.

Are you interested in having a crane repaired? If so, please contact us today!

5 Signs You Need a New Crane Part

On any construction project, the size of your margins is of critical importance. One of the biggest threats to your bottom line is construction downtime, which tends to occur when equipment failures strike. That is why you must follow a crane maintenance guide to keep your most important tool, your crane, in perfect working order.

Proper crane maintenance means knowing how to spot an equipment problem before it becomes serious. This means knowing the telltale signs that you need to order and install a new crane part. If you’re wondering, “does my crane need repairs?” read this essential guide to find out. 

1. Crane Part Corrosion

One of the most significant signs you need a new crane is the appearance of corrosion. If you can see corrosion, even if it is just a small amount of rust, the problem likely goes much deeper. When rust appears on the crane parts’ surface, the corrosion may be already deep inside the crane. Corroded crane parts are likely to break at the worst possible moments, potentially causing catastrophic damage. If crane parts are corroded, replace them immediately. 

2. Worn Out Pads

The outrigger, slider, and stabilizer pads are essential crane parts that workers often ignore. The pads are designed to take the crane’s blunt force’s movements and lift, an absorbing force so that the rest of the crane does not feel the pressure. If these begin to wear and tear, the entire structure of the crane becomes vulnerable. Check your pads to see if they are still in good condition and replace them if they are not. 

3. Dry Ropes and Slings

The ropes and the crane slings describe the moving parts that allow the rest of the crane to lift and expand as needed. These require regular, almost daily maintenance. They also need to be oiled constantly so that they do not dry out. If the ropes and slings dry out, the fibers will begin to fray and then snap. That is why you should keep them oiled and replace them if they begin to look worse for wear. 

4. Broken Chain Links

If your crane uses chain-based hoist systems, it is crucial that everyone on your team can spot a broken chain link as soon as it appears. All it takes is for one single chain link to snap for the whole structure to come crashing down. Maintain your chain links and always replace them when they begin to fray. You can order chain crane parts online for a very modest price.

5. Cracked Hooks 

The hook of the crane is an essential component. The hook is the tool that holds every item that needs to be lifted and is designed to help put everything neatly into place. If the hook begins to crack or bend in the wrong direction, the consequences can be catastrophic. Check the hook every day and make sure that it is in perfect condition before you begin construction. 

Keep Your Crane In Working Order 

If you need a new crane part, you have come to the right place. Check out our online store to order any new crane parts that you need to keep your construction project running smoothly. 

 

Type of Cranes Guide: Which is Best for Your Job?

No matter your construction project’s size and scale, you need the right tools to complete the job to the highest standard at the best possible price. One of the most important tools in your chest is the crane. Knowing the right type of cranes for your construction project is essential if you want to complete the construction on time.

When asking “which crane is best for my job?” there are many crucial factors to consider, such as the terrain, lot size, and building materials you plan to use. With that in mind, put aside those complicated crane buying guides and instead read this essential explainer on the right types of cranes you need for your project. 

1. Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Type of Cranes

If you are wondering how to know what crane to buy, it is essential to assess your construction needs. No two building sites are the same, with each one requiring precise tools and equipment to get the job done. When shopping for crane types, these are the main factors that you need to keep in mind: 

  • The building site’s size: If you have a large site that requires a lot of driving, then a mobile crane is essential. 
  • The loads to be lifted: Depending on the construction job, you could need a reinforced crane to lift titanium and steel. 
  • The lifting height: How tall is your construction project? You will need to make sure your crane can reach the top. 
  • The on-site safety needs: Safety is essential, which is why you need a crane that can navigate on-site hazards such as trees, pedestrians, and power lines. 

2. The Most Common Types of Cranes Explained 

Once you have assessed the needs of your construction site, you are ready to choose your crane. Here are the main options for you to consider: 

  • Rough terrain crane: As you might have guessed, these are mobile cranes mounted to trucks that can drive in all-terrain environments. 
  • Truck-mounted crane: These are compact, and lightweight cranes attached to standard trucks and are often used for maintenance. 
  • Overhead crane: Also known are bridge cranes, these are massive structures used for hefty overhead lifting, often in shipyards. 
  • Hammerhead crane: These are large construction cranes that swivel on a fixed tower. 
  • Tower crane: These are very high, slender cranes that are most commonly used in constructing urban tower blocks, and they are usually built up alongside the building itself. 

Other types of cranes may be better suited for your project, but these are the most popular options.

Upgrade Your Crane Today 

Now that you know the right type of cranes you need for your next construction project, it is time to ensure that you have the crane upgrades that you need to future-proof your investment. Make sure to consult our crane upgrades guides to determine how we can make sure your crane delivers everything you need. 

Your Guide to the Best Crane Brands

Cranes play an essential role within the construction industry, providing enormous lifting and moving capabilities on a wide variety of projects. The first cranes were used in modern-day Iraq around 5,000 years ago. Known as a shadouf, this simple crane was used to lift water for irrigation; it is still used in parts of the world today.

Today, modern crane brands such as Demag and Liebherr are sophisticated machines capable of lifting hundreds of tonnes. Here we will take a closer look at four notable brands on the market today, as well as some of the different types of cranes. Check out our cranes and hoists page for more information on our line of equipment.

Demag

Demag is a German heavy equipment manufacturer that was formally founded in 1910. For more than 100 years, it has built a reputation as a provider of powerful and reliable industrial cranes. Demag cranes are typically adept at handling loads smoothly, with high load capacity against minimum deadweight and reduced load sway.

Liebherr

Liebherr is a massive organization consisting of more than 130 different companies in total. Based in Switzerland, Liebherr manufactures a wide range of crawler, wheeled mobile, marine, and port cranes utilized by a myriad of industries around the world. Liebherr emphasizes operators’ comfort and safety.

Cargotec

This popular Finland-based crane manufacturer is well-known throughout the construction, forestry, transport, and distribution industries. Cargotec’s cranes are used worldwide and are effective in improving productivity as well as efficiency. Durably built, they are reliable machines that offer excellent safety standards.

Palfinger

Palfinger is an Austrian crane manufacturer known for its hydraulic loading, lifting, and handling systems. Palfinger has more than 150 models, notably the hydraulic loader crane, highly regarded as a user-friendly and efficient machine suitable for a range of projects.

Different Types of Crane

There is a wide range of different crane types available, depending on the industry and its requirements. Tower cranes are commonly seen within urban environments and where skyscrapers are being constructed. Given their height and lifting capacity, tower cranes are an essential feature of large-scale construction projects.

Other common crane types include mobile cranes, telescopic cranes, static cranes, gantry cranes, giant cantilever cranes, crawler cranes, and flying cranes. Mobile cranes, such as vehicle-mounted and self-erecting, make them a flexible, convenient, and efficient piece of equipment for a range of projects.

Find Great Crane Brands

As a leading manufacturer and distributor of equipment for a range of essential industries, we believe in providing high-quality products at competitive prices.

Speak to our team today about the crane brands, products, or parts you are interested in. You can also request a quote for more information. Contact us today through this form.

Be sure to check out our other blog posts on a range of topics.