Author Archive: Sales and Support

Crane Transport: How These Massive Machines Get from Point A to B

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It’s no secret that cranes are an indispensable part of the construction business. But they are also massive, heavy pieces of equipment that aren’t easy to move from one place to another.

The more you understand about cranes, the more your appreciation for them will grow. That’s why it’s helpful to discuss each type to provide a clear picture of how they arrive at a construction site.

This article takes a look at crane transport. Keep reading to get the inside scoop on how crane transportation services get the job done.

Understanding Crane Systems

The first thing that’s important to understand is, most construction sites receive cranes broken down into small components. In other words, they don’t arrive as one unit.

Cranes have to be broken down and stored as separate pieces between jobs. Otherwise, the sheer size would be unmanageable.

Once a crane has arrived on-site, it can then be assembled to whatever height is required for the job.

Installation of Cranes

Installing a crane at the construction site is a complicated process. After all, cranes are huge pieces of equipment that must be carefully assembled and balanced in other to avoid accidents.

The installation process involves hydraulic and pneumatic systems that use pressure to assemble the pieces. And as each piece is locked into the next, crane operators must prepare to reach the next level. This is dangerous work.

Tower Cranes

Now let’s talk about how various types of cranes are transported to the construction site.

First is the tower crane. These are massive cranes that are standard features of cityscapes where high-rise buildings are frequently under construction.

These cranes are delivered to the site as a series of parts on large trucks, then assembled once they arrive.

Jumping Cranes

Jumping or Kangaroo cranes sit atop buildings during the construction process. They are designed to continually “jump” to the next floor as the lower floor is completed.

Crawler Cranes

This type of crane is driven to the worksite on the back of a large truck. It can then be moved over rough terrain and positioned wherever needed.

A crawler crane is capable of self-transport, yet are incredibly slow.

Roadworthy Cranes

Several cranes are considered roadworthy, and thus can be driven to the site with the help of an escort vehicle. These cranes can be transported through cities via public roads, though this process requires a bit of serious organization and takes time.

An example of this type of crane is the Hiab truck. This is essentially an on-board crane system mounted behind the cab of a truck.

Franna cranes is another example of a roadworthy crane, which can actually carry a load during transit. Believe it or not, this type of crane is also licensed for on-road travel.

A Guide to How Crane Transport works

It’s hard to imagine the construction process without cranes. Fortunately, this article removes some of the mystery around how crane transport from location to location works.

Please contact us today to request a quote.

Safe Operations: A Guide to Crane Hand Signals

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When you run a worksite, it’s vital to keep it as safe as possible. This matter is especially the case when it comes to operating cranes. 

The United States Bureau of Labor (BOL) counted close to 300 crane fatalities in a 6-year duration. When you master hand signals, you’ll be in a great position to communicate in hectic environments. 

Here are some of the leading crane hand signals you should get to know. 

1. Make Use of the Stop Signal

Your crew is responsible for both overhead crane inspections and managing the signals. 

The stop signal is the first and most important one you and your worksite need to master. This signal works when you keep your palm down and extend your arm outward. Move your arm back and forth so that people can see it without question.  

When the crew gets the stop signal, they’ll know when to cease operation. 

2. The Hoist and Lower Signals

Managing crane and hoist safety is crucial in your workplace. This hoist direction is responsible for knowing when to raise a load toward the ceiling or sky. 

This signal involves placing your pointer finger in the air and pantomiming a circle. 

3. Use the Boom Signals

Take the time also to get to know the different boom signals. With these signals, you’ll know what to do with the boom, which is one of the most critical parts of the crane. 

If you’re going to raise the boom, the person needs to use their arm horizontally while raising their thumb to the sky. To lower the boom, do the opposite and point your thumb down. 

They can use their pointer finger in a side to side gesture to determine where the boom needs to go. Holding your thumb at your waist and holding it outward signals that you need to extend it. 

4. Emergency Stop is Critical

While the stop signal is essential, you need to master the emergency stop. This is a signal that helps to avert danger so that the operator can stop their machinery right way. 

With this sign, the crane operator extends both their arms outward, similar to the way that a baseball umpire signals “safe.”

5. Employ the Right Travel Signals

There are also a variety of travel signals that you can put to use to direct your crane. These signals vary and teach people when and how to move their crane throughout the worksite. 

This signal is crucial so that you can direct traffic in your worksite without creating damage or injuries. 

Perfect Your Crane Hand Signals

Using crane hand signals will help you keep your workplace as safe as possible. Let these tips point you toward creating a helpful work environment. 

Whenever you’d like to keep your worksite at its best, master these crane signals and use them consistently. 

Our company offers a wide variety of services that will help you with your industrial work. Take some time to contact us online or call us at (866)210-5897.

 

How Often Does Crane Operator Certification Need to Be Renewed?

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Industrial cranes are big, complex, and in the wrong hands, very dangerous. Cranes have been around for many years. They’ve proven themselves to be indisposable when it comes to building, shaping, and making things move. However, there is no mistaking that these excellent machines are also capable of causing severe property damage or bodily harm when not used correctly.

That being the case, it’s of utmost importance that your crane operator certification is up to date. The way that cranes are built and can maneuver, as well as how they are applied in the environment around them, means that the status quo is continually being updated. As a crane operator, if you fall behind on what you need to know, you would be at risk of causing harm to your fellow workers and your business.

It clear, then, that certificates should be updated, and it’s probably time for you to renew yours. This article gives insight on when certificates need to be renewed so you can always stay a step ahead!

Here’s When to Update Your Crane Worker Certification

The good thing about crane operator recertification is that your certificate will last you five years from the issue date. That said, a lot can change within five years, which makes getting recertified all the more critical.

When getting your certification, you will first be listed as an operator-in-training. In this stage, you’ll complete required training similar to what you did the first time you completed the certification. You’ll also learn plenty of new information to build upon what you already know.

Certifications in crane operator training are relatively inexpensive in comparison to the years of use you’ll get from them. In fact, on average, a certificate costs around 75 dollars, making these certifications easy to afford. However, you have to be on the ball when it comes time to move; if you wait until after the expiration date, you’ll have to pay an extra 25 dollars to be eligible for the certification.

Here for Your Crane Needs

Now that you know the importance of updating your crane operator certification, update your certificate as soon as possible. The next step is to get your crane in top condition, so it runs flawlessly every time. At Kor-Pak Corporation, we are the leaders in manufacturing crane parts for businesses like yours to thrive. We offer a vast selection of industrial items, including industrial brakes, clutches, crane wheels, hoists, rail parts, gearbox and transmission products, hydraulic clamps, and so much more, all for a price that fits your budget.

Browse through our site to view our selections or contact us whenever you’re ready to order. We look forward to helping you!

 

The Latest Advancements in Forklift Manufacturing and Forklift Tech

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Do you own or manage a business? If so, then you understand the importance of having the right tools for the job.

One of the essential tools for many industries is the forklift. This piece of heavy equipment has been around for decades and is necessary for loading and unloading freight and moving inventory around. 

As technology has improved over the years, forklift manufacturing has taken advantage of these advances to make forklifts easier to use and to be capable of more complex operations. 

This article takes a look at new forklift technology. Keep reading for details on the latest developments.

Digital Communication Technology

Regardless of what industry you work in, a few aspects of the business are as important as effective communication. This is especially true when it comes to handling large volumes of inventory.

Fortunately, the geniuses in Silicon Valley continue to provide improved communication tech for forklifts. This includes methods of using digital technology that enables drives to speak directly to internet-based systems, allowing them to interact with other devices within the warehouse.

High tech communication systems also help reduce potential workplace accidents, making your warehouse environment a safer place to work.

Automation

Almost everything is becoming more automated, including forklifts.

As more and more self-driving cars fill city streets, the number of self-driving forklifts is also on the rise. This kind of technology offers several benefits, including the fact that it frees up operators to perform other tasks, few errors during the “pick” process, as well as the potential for fewer employees on the payroll.

Improved Braking

When it comes to managing a forklift safely in a warehouse environment, nothing is more important than the ability to stop quickly.

Keep in mind that forklifts are not only complicated pieces of equipment; they are also heavy. This is why advances in technology have introduced improved braking systems so that the forklift can be controlled more effectively.

Improved braking means you can minimize accidents, thus reducing the number of injuries in your workplace, while also limiting the amount of wear and tear on your equipment.

Green Technology

It’s no secret that an increasing number of companies are looking for ways to make their operations more environmentally friendly. That’s why the forklift industry has taken enormous steps to produce fuel cells that run longer and cleaner. This technology enables your equipment to get more work done using less energy.

Remote Control Technology

Some forklifts are now able to be controlled from digital operation panels. These control systems provide easy to understand interfaces, enables operators to remain a safe distance away while performing the dangerous task of moving heavy freight from one place to another.

A Guide to the Latest Technology Used in Forklift Manufacturing

It’s difficult to overstate the value of forklift and in warehouses and other workplaces. They can perform difficult tasks that would otherwise be impossible. Fortunately, forklift manufacturing continues to offer incredible advances in technology that make these difficult tasks safer and easier than ever before.

Contact us today to request a quote.

Hydraulic vs Pneumatic Actuator: Which Is Best for My Operations?

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Quality actuators are the keystone of modern motion. Without them, we’d be stuck in the world of simple machines. With twenty-first-century actuator technology, we can stand in awe of the power machines produce. 

Organizations as big and important as NASA use actuators to meet the performance standards needed for aerospace travel.

So how do you know which is the best actuator to use? Which is better, a pneumatic actuator or a hydraulic actuator? 

Keep reading to learn about various types of actuators and which will work best for your given needs. 

What Are Different Types of Actuators? 

Three main types of actuators exist in the world of mechanics: the hydraulic actuator, the electro-hydraulic actuator, and the pneumatic actuator. 

Hydraulic Actuator

A hydraulic actuator uses a fluid-filled chamber to build pressure and create the necessary power for a machine. Hydraulic actuators work best to create great force. They can manage higher pressures than other actuators. 

The hydraulic actuator’s tolerance for great force makes it ideal for heavy construction equipment that needs to create massive amounts of power. Because no one can compress fluids, a hydraulic actuator can hold its torque and force without needing a power source to apply continuous force. 

Electric Actuator

An electric actuator produces pressure through one of two ways. You can use an electromechanical actuator to help create mechanical torque. The actuator powers the motor that converts electrical energy into mechanical torque. 

An electro-hydraulic actuator still uses an electric motor as the primary motor. However, the electric motor produces the torque that powers a hydraulic accumulator. The hydraulic accumulator then transmits force the same way you see a diesel engine or hydraulic system work in heavy equipment. 

Pneumatic Actuator

Pneumatic actuators use compressed air to create power. Compressed air has a lower pressure rating than hydraulic actuators create, making them less powerful. However, they’re a safe, stable way to create power as well. 

Pneumatic Actuator vs. Hydraulic Actuator

When you’re looking at the world of pneumatic vs. hydraulic, which is best for your needs? 

Hydraulic actuators create the most significant amount of force. They can handle higher pressure than pneumatic actuators can. This is why we often see them used for heavy construction equipment. 

On the downside, because of the fluid they require, hydraulic actuators can leak fluid that can cause damage to other parts of the machine. Plus, you need several other devices like motors and fluid reservoirs to make a hydraulic actuator work. 

Hydraulic actuators are also loud. You can attempt to fit them with noise-reduction add-ons, but they’re still a pretty loud machine. 

Pneumatic actuators use air pressure instead of fluid. Thus they do not run the risk of leaking fluid that can contaminate other parts of the machine. 

Pneumatic actuators have their particularities too. They require an air compressor for power, and you need to keep the air compressor relatively close to the actuator. Also, you need to keep the air compressor working continuously. 

Pneumatic actuators run at lower pressures than hydraulic actuators. They provide reliable, consistent motion and can tolerate extremely lower or high temperatures. Hydraulic actuators, in comparison, cannot tolerate temperature fluctuations. 

As you continue to figure out your system’s needs, consider the amount of power you need to determine which works best for you. 

Power vs. Stability

A pneumatic actuator provides steady, stable power because of the constant air pressure. As you continue to search for the perfect actuator, check out our site. 

For all of your heavy machinery parts, contact us. We have what you need. 

The Global Crane Market: Growth, Trends, and Predictions

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Keeping up with the global crane market can be a lot of information at once. There are many aspects to watch out for, but if you keep up with the trends and growth, you can be ahead of the curve.

We here at Kor-Pak work with all things cranes. Our modernizations and upgrades help us to see where the crane market is going. These trends in an ever-growing industry can shape your very business. 

Curious to find the lowdown on what the future holds for the crane market? Let’s explore with a crane market overview. 

The Global Crane Market Overview

The global crane market comes in with a market worth of over $42 billion in 2018. The expectations are that its growth will continue at a steady pace for the near future. Investments in construction and reconstruction projects are booming. As well, equipment reinforcement for the mining industry is growing.

While the steady rise and value of the crane market is a positive sign, it affects some more than others. Let’s dive a bit deeper into the specific areas of growth and the trends that cause them. 

Understanding Growth

As always, there are several factors that can push or stifle growth for the crane market. While the lack of skilled labor remains a growing problem in all construction industries, the new opportunities are driving the market into new territory.

India and China are looking for stronger infrastructure growth, so government contracts from those countries will push a lot of development to that area. This also pushes the construction type over other crane purposes, which we’ll dive into below. 

1. Regional Growth

Driven by India and China’s high demands, growth by region has had a significant focus on the Asia-Pacific region. Government contracts are often the biggest and many countries in that area besides the big two are still open for development. 

North America still ranks high, though, and an increase in new real estate work only helps that. 

2. Market Segmentation

Like with any market, the crane market works in parts. For this industry, it is often split by the crane’s function, such as construction, offshore, and port work. 

Due to the focus on new real estate and development, most growth has been on construction. 

Recent Trends

These growths come from two exciting trends that have shaped the what and why of the crane market. 

1. Rental Cranes

Despite much higher demand for construction, companies are not buying as many new cranes. Instead, they are focusing on a short term boost by renting cranes for their individual projects.

This new shift stifles growth in crane manufacturers but provides a new and exciting boon for rental business. 

2. More Mega Projects

Instead of a wide variety of smaller projects, trends are pushing toward a handful of massive, mega projects. Massive buildings and huge development lots have seen an upswing, making each individual contract more valuable but fewer.

Looking to the Future

The focus on rental projects will mean smaller crane market investments. This short term planning might leave opportunity for long term investments, even more so if you plan to step into the rental crane business. 

Government contracts have always been a sweet spot for construction — the details on where big countries like India and China push will be key. 

There is a lot more information to be had, and new developments happen all the time. Keep up with us at Kor-Pak, and we’ll guide you forward. For more information, contact us today! 

Everything You Need to Know About Crane Pendant Control Stations

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At any given moment, over 250,000 people are at risk of accidents related to the operation of crane and hoist systems. Because of this, construction and factory workers must do all in their power to reduce the risk of injury.

Fortunately, with ground-level crane pendant control systems, it’s easy to operate this machinery safely and efficiently. Read on to learn what a crane pendant control station is and why it’s one of the most groundbreaking technologies in all manual labor industries!

What Is a Crane Pendant Control Station?

The majority of overhead cranes are operated electrically. Like any electrical appliance, they need a person to operate their controls and ensure that they function in an intended manner.

Crane pendant systems are the control boards that construction or industrial workers use to operate and direct the movement of a crane. Specifically, they ensure that the hook (or pendant) of the crane moves appropriately and can be positioned purposefully. With these controls, you can cause the crane to automatically lift and maneuver the objects that you’re working with.

What Can Be Controlled?

Crane pendant controls are used in three primary ways:

  • Directing crane motion (moving the machine itself up and down runways and around cites)
  • Hoist positioning (horizontal/lateral side-to-side movement of the pendant, good for positioning the load)
  • Hoist lifting motion (vertical movement of the hook to move loads up and down)

How Does the Operator Control the Crane?

There are also three main ways that an operator can control the pendant of the crane.

The first and historically most common method requires multiple people. An operator sits in a cab that is attached to the body of the crane and controls its movements. One or two coworkers will stand on the ground and use hand signals and walkie-talkies to tell the operator where to move the pendant.

This is not the most efficient method, however. A crane can also be controlled by an operator on the floor using a crane pendant system. This system is attached to the crane, which allows one person to move it and direct it appropriately without the help of other coworkers.

Some crane pendant systems are also wireless- the operator can use them to direct a crane all the way across a construction site. These controls use a radio transmitter and receiver to direct the movement of the crane. This is usually the ideal way to control a crane. It provides workers with a lot of range and easy, no-frills maneuvering.

Why Is This Important?

There are many benefits to crane pendant control stations.

First, operators can walk closer when setting and positioning loads. This allows them to easily maneuver around obstacles that are on the ground and to be more precise in where loads are placed. This is primarily a good idea when you use wireless radio-operated controls because the cord won’t become wrapped around things.

They also make your on-site work safer and more productive. You won’t run the risk of knocking into anything (or anyone) while in a cab attached to your crane. You also don’t need to worry about wires and cords snagging on large items and knocking them over.

Get Started

While maneuvering a crane is a challenge, initially, it becomes much easier over time. Crane controls are simple to understand and to ultimately master.

 Contact our experts to ask any lingering questions you may have about crane control. We also will give you a quote for the equipment that you need to make your project run as efficiently as possible.

 

 

 

The Top 10 List of Industrial Manufacturers of 2020

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If you’re looking for ideal ndustrial equipment, you need to find the highest quality manufacturers. 

Working with the right industrial manufacturers will take all of your projects to heights you’ve never realized. Read up on these top manufacturers. 

The Top Industrial Manufacturers

The top manufacturers specialize in everything from cranes and forklifts to bulldozers and oilfield equipment. Here are some of the top companies:

1. John Deere

John Deere has been around since 1837 and for a good reason. 

Professionals in the agricultural and construction industries have used an assortment of machinery that the company produces. They also contribute heavily to the forestry industry all over the world. 

2. Volvo

You’re probably familiar with the line of vehicles that Volvo puts out. However, Volvo is also responsible for parts that serve several industries, heavy machinery, demolition, and other areas.

They make some of the best excavators on the market and are responsible for a lot of heavy lifting. 

3. Hitachi

This Japanese manufacturer has been around since the early 1900s. 

They create machinery for a lot of different industries. For example, they provide wheel loaders, excavators, dump trucks, and hydraulic cranes for the construction field. 

Hitachi is also responsible for some substantial infrastructure, such as power plants, power grids, and wind power generation systems. 

4. Metso 

This is a relatively young company since they’ve been around since 1999. Metso serves several industries, such as mining and oil and gas. 

Headquartered in Finland, they bring in billions providing equipment to companies all over the world. They sell items like jaw crushers, ball mills, and slurry pumps. 

5. Terex

Terex is a materials handling company that specializes in quarrying and construction needs. They are based out of Connecticut and were founded in 1933. 

The company has lots of longevity due in large part to the fact that they were once part of the General Motors company. They rake in about $5 billion in revenue. 

6. Hyundai Heavy Industries

This is yet another company that is known for the manufacture of vehicles, but it has so many other products that make infrastructures run. 

They are based in South Korea and happen to run the most massive shipbuilding yard in the world. These contractors work with plants of all kinds, and engineers rely on a lot of the products they manufacture. 

The company has been around since 1972 and quickly emerged as a leader in the industrial manufacturing field. 

7. Sany

This Chinese based company was founded in 1989 and generates billions each year. 

They specialize in both high-end equipment and research and development. Sany manufactures everything from excavators to cranes for companies of all types. 

Shop With The Best Manufacturers on the Market

Shopping with these industrial manufacturers will help you to the fullest. These are some of the best brands and companies that you’ll want to do business with when you need these products. 

We specialize in everything from brakes and clutches to oil rig equipment, hoists, and transmissions. Browse our inventory to learn more about what we have to offer. 

Take time to contact us via our online form, or call us at (866)210-5897.

How to Choose the Best Industrial Clutch Brake

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Having already contributed over $2.2 trillion to the US economy, manufacturing is one of the most exciting and productive industries in the nation.

If your plant uses heavy machinery, you’re likely always looking for ways to improve your efficiency. Finding the right clutch brake for your equipment is essential to this goal. Here, we’re going to talk about how to select industrial brakes and clutches for your heavy equipment, so read on to maximize your efficiency!

Look at Clutch Brake Types

When selecting clutch brakes to improve the efficiency of your machinery, you have two primary options: disc brakes and drum brakes.

Disc brakes are simply a metal disc that is placed inside of the front wheels on a piece of machinery. When activated, they cause a hard pad to press down on the brake disc. This ultimately slows the machinery down until your equipment ceases moving altogether.

On the other hand, drum brakes are essentially a shoe that you install on a machine’s hollow wheel hub. When the brakes are activated, this shoe pushes into the wheel. The friction produced by this movement slows down the wheel’s rotation.

Disc brakes are the more long-lasting and durable option. They perform better and are quieter than drum brakes. However, they’re also much more expensive.

In many cases, your industrial machines don’t need the perfect brakes —  they just need something that gets the job done. Drum brakes are an affordable alternative that works well for heavy-machinery. They also are dependable, despite not being the most high-tech option.

Choose a Manufacturer

Once you know whether you want disc or drum brakes, it’s time to choose a reputable manufacturer for your brakes. This likely sounds like a daunting task- after all, there are so many industrial manufacturers out there!

Kor-Pak partners with the most reliable and high-quality industrial manufacturers out there to bring you the best machinery on the market. If you look here, you can see and assess the many manufacturers that we, as an authorized distributor, represent. 

This makes the process of selecting a provider much easier by narrowing down your options for you. It also ensures that you will be as satisfied as possible with the clutch brakes that you choose.

Consider Accessories

You also will want to consider the brake and clutch accessories that look the most useful to you. Options include:

These are just some of the accessories that you can choose from. Make sure that you choose a clutch brake that is compatible with the add-ons that you want.

Get an Industrial Clutch Brake Today

Many aspects go into choosing industrial brakes and clutches, and the decision ultimately will come down to your business’s values and needs.

Contact us to discuss your plant’s individual needs and get a quote on how much your new equipment will cost you. We’re committed to matching you with the ideal manufacturer and specific product that you need to maximize production and remain efficient.

2020’s Leading Manufacturers of Industrial Brakes and Clutches

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The global brakes and clutch manufacturing industry grows annually by about 2.5%, and within the next five years, it’s projected to hit $742.7 million. This makes sense- after all, industrial plants like yours need the most updated and efficient equipment to ensure both safety and production.

But who makes the best equipment on the market. Read on to learn about some of the best makers of industrial brakes, clutches, and other heavy machinery!

Antec Drum Brakes

Antec is a manufacturer of power release drum brakes that are also spring-applied. Because they have an optional scale for torque control, the brake torque is simple to adjust. This means that it has a greater variety of applications than it otherwise would, which makes it a versatile investment.

Additionally, all Antec brakes use a TURBEL- a three-phase AC electro-hydraulic thruster- for brake release.

These drum brakes are perfect for use with industrial cranes, but they also work in steel mills and material handling. If you want to ensure that conveyor belts or winches operate appropriately, Antec is also the company for you. 

Marland Clutch

Marland is primarily a clutch manufacturer specializing in sprag clutches, HBG clutches, and one-way CEBMAG backstops. Priding themselves on creating innovative clutch designs since 1931, Marland has over 100 different models of clutches and can accommodate machine shaft sizes of up to 600 millimeters.

Whether you want a high-speed clutch with dual-drive applications or cylindrical rollers in a cage that forces them to move simultaneously, Marland has you covered. 

Johnson Industries

Johnson Brakes is a manufacturer that Kor-Pak has worked with for more than 20 years. As a result, you can trust that they’re one of the highest-quality trustworthy manufacturers on the market.

This company makes a vast multitude of products, including pneumatic, hydraulic, spring-set, or manual disc brakes to engage conveyor belts and rotating manufacturer equipment. Additionally, they offer drum brakes to help your cranes and hoists to work as effectively as possible. Storm brake systems are also an option for rail and industrial wheel clamps.

Johnson offers every type of disc and drum brake under the sun! Assess your needs to ensure that you select not only the appropriate brake type but also a size that works for you.

Get Brakes and Clutch Equipment Today

There are many manufacturers of brakes and clutches on the market. So ordering through Kor-Pak is a must no matter which creator you choose. Our professionals look at and assess your equipment to determine the precise items that you need custom-made.

Now that you know the leading brakes and clutch manufacturers on the market today, it’s time to get started. Request a quote for the industrial equipment that you need for your manufacturing plant. Our experts will answer any lingering questions that you may have and ensure that you have the brakes, clutches, and other machinery necessary for your plant’s productivity.