Everything You Need to Know About Jib Crane Parts

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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.

A Look Inside: OSHA Crane Inspection Requirements

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Construction workers average 1 in 5 work-related fatalities. The #1 OSHA violation is fall protection for the construction industry.

Crane inspections are a preventative measure to lower the risk of accidents. This article offers a quick and comprehensive guide to OSHA crane inspection requirements.

Keep reading to learn more about what you need to know.

Crane Inspection Procedures

Cranes are covered under OSHA standard 1910.179- overhead and gantry cranes. The crane inspection requirements are outlined in 1910.179 (j) through (j)(4)(iii). 

OSHA requires three different inspection types:

  • Initial inspection: before operating new or altered cranes
  • Frequent inspection: daily, weekly, and monthly intervals
  • Periodic inspection: monthly, semi-annual, quarterly, and annual intervals

Inspection intervals depend on the crane’s critical components. They’re also based on exposure to “wear, deterioration, and malfunction.”

Exposure includes factors like the rate of use and environmental effects. The higher the exposure, the higher the rate of inspections.

Types of Cranes

OSHA defines cranes based on their function and mode of operation. These include:

  • Automatic crane
  • Cab-operated crane
  • Overhead crane
  • Power-operated crane
  • Remote-operated crane
  • Gantry crane

The type can affect your crane inspection checklist. For example, frequent inspections require checking air or hydraulic systems parts daily, which applies to power-operated cranes.

Overhead crane inspections also include rated load-bearing tests.

OSHA Crane Inspection Requirements

All inspectors must meet OSHA standards. This can include any applicable industry and state standards.

For example, the Crane Manufacturers Association of America has industry standards for crane inspectors that include:

  • Formal training
  • Knowledge of state codes
  • 2,000 hours of direct experience

Some states will set their own additional standards.

1. Frequent Crane Inspection Checklist

OSHA requires a frequent inspection for each operational shift the crane is in use. The inspection must be performed by a competent person, begin before the shift, and conclude before the shift is over.

These components are part of daily inspection:

  • Operating mechanisms
  • Air or hydraulic system parts such as lines, tanks, valves, and drain pumps
  • Hooks
  • Hoist chains
  • Rope reeving

In addition to daily inspections, hooks and hoist chains must undergo a monthly inspection with a certification record entry that includes the date, inspector signature, and part identifier.

2. Periodic Crane Inspection Checklist

Periodic inspections are scheduled in advance at specified intervals. A periodic inspection includes the frequency checklist and:

  • Members, bolts, and rivets
  • Sheaves and drums
  • Brake system parts
  • Load, wind, and other indicators 
  • Gasoline, diesel, electric, or other powerplants 
  • Chain drive sprockets and chains
  • Electrical apparatus 

Cranes on stand-by will have a frequent inspection semi-annually. For example, a crane idle for over a month but less than six months will undergo a routine inspection, while a crane will have periodic inspections over six months.

Finding the Best Crane Inspection Near Me

Meeting OSHA crane inspection requirements is one of the best ways to prevent workplace accidents. Lax standards are illegal, dangerous, and costly.

If you’re searching for certified and licensed inspectors, Kor-Pak Corporation is dedicated to the highest workplace safety standards. We’re customer-orientated and results-driven.

Connect with us to learn more about our wide range of services, including overhead crane inspection and construction equipment repair.

Types of Tower Cranes You Should Know About

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The global tower crane rental market grew to a valuation of $6.49 billion in 2021. The USA was in the top three countries, and the construction industry accounted for 59.3% of all end-use markets.

The functionality offered by tower cranes is essential to most construction projects.

But with different types of tower cranes available, how do you choose the right one for your site?

Our guide will help you decide.

Luffing Jib Tower Cranes

The luffing jib tower crane, AKA a luffer, can be identified by its counterweight, set close to the cab. It also has an extended diagonal arm attached to the top of the mast at an angle. 

This arm can move from 30 degrees to vertical, enabling the operator to position the crane into tight spaces. It is common in dense urban environments due to its maneuverability and smaller slewing radius.

Another benefit of the luffing jib is its higher lifting capacity. It is capable of lifting more than the hammerhead tower crane.

Luffing jibs are ideal if tight spaces and heavy loads are key factors.

Yet this functionality comes at a cost. Luffing jib tower cranes are usually more expensive than hammerheads.

Hammerhead Tower Cranes

This is the most common tower crane in the USA. It has a long, horizontal jib, and the hook at the end can be racked anywhere along with it via a moving trolley that runs the length. This is unique to hammerheads.

The jib can rotate 360 degrees around the mast to reach any peripheral object. On the other side of the operator’s cab, a counterweight at the end of the counter jib balances the crane when lifting heavy objects. 

Hammerheads can have an A-shaped structure on top of the mast, connecting the jib and counter jib, known as an “A-frame,” or they can be flat on top.

A-frames have higher lifting capacities than flat-tops, but modern flat-tops are closing that gap. Flat-tops are useful when head-room is limited or when two or more cranes must operate above or below each other.

Self-Erecting Tower Cranes (SETCs)

When projects need a tower crane’s fast transport and setup, self-erecting styles are your best bet. However, if you need a light, mobile tower crane, it is.

They are lighter than hammerheads and luffing jibs, and you can easily move them from site to site. They are ideal for sites where you often need to assemble, dismantle and move your tower crane.

SETCs have horizontal jibs attached to masts mounted on either moving or static ballasts. From this base, they can assemble themselves without a second crane, saving you time and, in many cases, money.

A tower crane operator can also operate most SETC models remotely, from the ground, giving you more options for on-site operation. Check out the types of tower crane controllers here.

But this portability comes at the cost of capacity. SETCs can lift less weight than hammerheads and luffing jib tower cranes, limiting them to sites where high capacity lifts are not needed.

Keep Your Tower Crane on Top of Its Game

Hammerheads are your do-it-all-in-open-space tower cranes. Luffing jibs give you maneuverability and lifting power in tight quarters. Self-erecting tower cranes suit fast-moving, mobile sites with lighter loads.

There are variations, such as self-lifting and all-terrain mobiles. But these are usually based on the main three types of tower cranes.

Construction sites can be challenging places to work, and the equipment used on them needs to be well-maintained. Tower cranes are no different.

Check out our tower crane parts over at Kor-Pak. We stock crane controls, wheels, material handling, and everything you need. 

The Difference Between a Crane vs. Hoist: What You Need to Know

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Is your business considering utilizing a crane or hoist? Cranes and hoists have been used for thousands of years as buildings got more oversized and construction became more complicated over time.

Cranes and hoists both have similar functions but do have fundamental differences. Here are some primary differences between a crane and a hoist.

What is a Hoist?

A hoist is a complex piece of machinery that lowers, lifts, and moves big loads. Hoists provide lateral movement to move loads with ease. A crane has three essential components: a horizontal beam, a pulley, and a hydraulic cylinder.

These three components work synchronously to move heavy loads from point A to Point B. Hoists are typically used in constructing buildings and monuments and factories or building plants. Most hoists are set up in a fixed location. 

Types of Hoists

Two characteristics define hoists: the power source and the lifting medium. Whether it is wire rope or chain, the lifting medium is used to support the load. The power source is classified by whether it’s electric-powered, air-powered, or hand-powered. 

Chain Hoists

Chain hoists are great for lighter loads, commonly under 5-tons. They are compact, tolerate high-stress levels, and change lift height. 

Although they are great options for hoists, they tend to have a noisier operation and limited lift speed due to the need for a sprocket.

Wire Hoists

As the name entails, wire hoists use wire rope as their lifting medium. This wire is fed through a grooved drum and can be electrically, manually, or air-powered.

Wire hoists are ideal for heavier loads 10-tons and above. The great thing about wire hoists is that they operate quietly, offer fast lifting speeds, and are considered the standard for general construction. 

What is a Crane?

Unlike a hoist which only moves laterally, an overhead crane operator can move its crane in multi-directions. First, cranes use a lever that acts as a beam attached to a pulley that carries a load. Then, a hydraulic cylinder pushes the shaft to deliver the cargo to where it needs to go. 

Types of Cranes

An overhead crane classifies into two categories. Static cranes are a more familiar scene in warehouses or factories where the system builds into the ceiling of the workspace. Mobile cranes are just as the name says. They can move to-and-from any location on the worksite in a multidirectional fashion. Construction sites with rugged terrain use cranes instead of hoists.

Crane vs. Hoist: Which is Right For You?

If you debate whether to use a crane vs. a hoist, you’ll need to look at your logistical needs to determine which is best. For example, choose a hoist if working on a stationary or permanent jobs such as a warehouse or supply shop. 

If you work on a construction site with varying terrain, go with something more mobile such as a crane. Want to find more blogs about various industries? Visit us here for more.

How to Choose an Overhead Bridge Crane Step by Step

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Overhead cranes come in various styles, including monorail cranes, jib cranes, bridge cranes, and gantry cranes. They can help you deliver your production, logistics, or construction projects on time and support a host of other applications. 

Choosing the best overhead bridge crane for your requirements is a challenge, and in this guide, we’ll give you tips on how to make the right decision.

Overhead Bridge Crane Criteria

There are several criteria to consider when selecting an overhead bridge crane. These include your functional purpose, the relative strengths and weaknesses of different manufacturers, and how you will install it.

Why Do You Need an Overhead Bridge Crane?

Here are vital questions to ask when determining what type of crane you will need.

  1. What type of materials are you lifting (weight, mass)?
  2. What are environmental conditions (heat, humidity, stress factors)
  3. Are there any health and safety concerns?
  4. Is there a lot of dust, dirt, or loose particles which could affect performance?

Factors that might mean you need specific crane types include humidity below 90 percent, an extreme temperature, outdoor use in inclement weather, or a very low or high altitude. 

Some cranes have protective features that make them specially designed to overcome some of the above challenges. Using an unsuitable crane could be inefficient and lead to expensive faults and repairs or injury. Cranes can even collapse in some of the worst cases.

There Are Several Types of Overhead Bridge Cranes

Here are some of the different types of overhead bridge cranes. 

  • Bridge/Overhead Cranes. In either Single or Double Girder Format
  • Gantry Cranes. These use rails Instead of suspended runways. They come in track-mounted, adjustable, and portable styles. 
  • Jib Cranes. They don’t use a track or runway but instead are a standalone column or wall-mounted design. 

Know Your Overhead Crane Manufacturers

Different manufacturers are geared up for various industries and use cases, so the crane you use should reflect that. Here are some questions you can answer to choose the right one. 

  • Who is your company, business purpose, and target market?
  • What are your current workflow requirements and future ones so you can make a purchase that could also be useful in the future?
  • Do you have any lifting or handling limitations?

A good manufacturer or supplier will also ask you these questions to assess the best product for your specific business needs. 

Overhead Crane Parts

For the best solutions that function overhead, shop crane suppliers who understand your industry, challenges, and working processes. 

Finding the best overhead crane for sale involves a financial factor too, and it might be worth buying a used crane or buying a new crane to rent it out or resell in the future. Some manufacturers may also buy back cranes and recondition them for resale, so don’t be afraid to ask.

Overhead crane operator requirements are all listed on the NCCCO website, and you can also bear these in mind to ensure your team is prepared to follow regulations when using your new crane.

Overhead Bridge Crane Options

Many options are available for businesses interested in purchasing an overhead bridge crane.

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

The Ultimate Guide to SEW Eurodrive Parts

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Have you ever wondered what type of parts can power a vehicle the size of a crane? It takes some pretty reliable, high-quality parts. And that’s exactly what SEW Eurodrive parts provide.

Today, we’re going to discuss everything you need to know about SEW Eurodrive parts. Consider this article your all-inclusive guide.

We’ll talk about the company that makes them and the performance you can expect from them.

 

Who Is SEW Eurodrive Parts?

SEW Eurodrive Parts is the premier part supplier for heavy equipment. They provide car parts and parts for vehicle safety equipment. You can even purchase a SEW Eurodrive motor if your vehicle needs a replacement.

The company is a longstanding leader in the industry. SEW Eurodrive has been in business since 1931. They have a long history of being an innovative leader in the industry.

One of their most groundbreaking innovations is making the first variable speed gearmotor. This technology is so common among big machines now. Work, as we know it today, wouldn’t be possible without the pioneers at SEW Eurodrive.

Another one of their cutting-edge technologies is revolutionary changes to the motor as we know it. The professionals at SEW Eurodrive brought energy efficiency to the common motor. They did it by installing copper rotors and pioneering the use of electronic drives.

Types of SEW Eurodrive Parts

SEW Eurodrive is not only a leader in the industry, but they also offer a wide range of parts for your industrial machines. Their frequency inverters and industrial gearboxes offer some of the highest-density torque available.

These premier parts also have one of the longest lifespans in the industry. They also are available with backlash reduction technology and special design features specifically for agitation applications.

One of their most notable products is the Varimot Variable Speed Gearmotor. The innovative design of this gearmotor allows for easy use and more starting torque on your machinery. SEW gearmotor also meet all international efficiency level requirements.

We can’t mention SEW Eurodrive parts without mentioning their AC motors. This simple and innovative motor design can handle all motor variants with just one series. It boasts a compact design which helps you save on space and costs. 

The AC motor is also customizable and can handle integration with other motors. This means it’s more energy efficient. It can also accommodate three different brake sizes.

This is yet another way the AC motor from SEW Eurodrive Parts can help you cut costs.

SEW Superheroes

Our team at Kor-Pak can help you with any SEW Eurodrive Parts. We offer the SEW gearmotors, frequency inverters, gearboxes, and AC motors.

If you have any questions about an SEW Eurodrive motor or other parts and how they can help you with equipment safety, contact us at any time. We are more than happy to help and will do anything we can to get you and your team’s equipment running in tip-top shape.

 

Scan-Pac: Top 5 Products of Scan-Pac Manufacturing

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Scan-Pac Manufacturing is an industry leader when it comes to friction products and materials. 

That means they produce some of the best brake pad materials on the market. So whether you’re working with oil field rigs, or commercial elevators, or any other industry that requires reliable brake shoe materials, Scan-Pac has what you need. 

Let’s take a look at the top five Scan-Pac products that set this company apart. 

1. Gemini Friction Material

Gemini is Scan-Pac Manufacturing’s brand-new line of industrial and brake shoe friction material. 

The Gemini Brand was specifically developed to provide the very highest quality friction material on the market. So if you’re looking for the best brake pad material, it’ll be difficult to top the Gemini products. 

The Gemini molded materials come in four models—Gemini Low (GL), Gemini Mid (GM), Gemini Mid-High (GMH), and Gemini High (GH). These materials come with friction coefficients ranging from 0.15 to 0.59. The Gemini Brand offers enormous savings while performing at a high level. 

2. Gatke—One of Scan-Pac’s Best

The Gatke molded fabric bearings are among the most popular products offered by Scan-Pac Manufacturing, Inc. 

Scan-Pac’s Gatke materials are designed to hold up in the most rigorous environments and applications. These products attain levels of performance that materials made with conventional methods just can’t achieve. 

Gatke materials are made of durable resins and high-strength fabrics. As a result, Gatke is an excellent choice for critical wear applications since it can be easily made into various parts configurations. 

3. Oilfield Products

If you need products for oilfield drilling and rigs, Scan-Pac Manufacturing has you covered. 

Scan-Pac’s oilfield products include draw-works sets and brake blocks, and they’ve been tested to the most exacting standards. The brake blocks are designed with oil field use in mind, provide a constant friction level, and have excellent fade resistance. 

In addition, Scan-Pac offers a complete line of molded clutch facings. 

4. Flexible Lining Material

Flexible lining materials serve several valuable applications. 

Scan-Pac’s woven and calendared lining materials come in a roll or flat sheet form. These materials can be custom sized, and they exhibit superior performance levels in the field. 

Scan-Pac’s flexible linings have consistent, high static friction levels and exhibit a reasonable wear rate. And there is a wide range of applications for these materials. This includes mine winches, elevators, oil drill rigs, and mining winches. 

5. Rigid Molded Materials

Finally, Scan-Pac Manufacturing offers a line of rigid molded friction products. 

Scan-Pac has many rigid friction materials that include everything from molded brake blocks to custom molded parts for special configurations. Molded sheets come in a range of sizes, thicknesses, and friction levels for virtually any application. 

And if the volume doesn’t require bulk molding, custom fabricated products can get the job done. In other words, Scan-Pac Manufacturing has suitable molded materials for whatever job you have in mind. 

Scan-Pac Manufacturing

Scan-Pac Manufacturing produces reliable and tested friction and brake pad materials.

And if you’re looking for these products, Kor-Pak can help. So contact us today, and let us help you find the Scan-Pac products you need. 

 

Stromag: 5 Benefits of a Stromag Eddy Current Brake

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On the surface, theme parks, train stations, and gyms don’t seem to have much in common. However, a careful observer may notice they all use some shared technology. One of those technological pieces is a Stromag eddy current brake.

Eddy current technology cleverly uses magnetic principles to achieve incredible results. They purposefully create these currents in a product to allow for smooth, uninhibited deceleration.

These brakes are a popular choice for their efficiency and low maintenance. In this guide, we’ll examine the benefits of the Stromag brake by exploring its many applications. Let’s get started!

Gym Equipment Can Utilize the Stromag Eddy Current Brake

When people think of industrial brakes, they often think of their use in industrial equipment ranging from trains to cranes. However, exercise equipment manufacturers have found other ways to implement Stromag brake models.

One example of how gyms use eddy current brakes is in ellipticals, treadmills, and exercise bikes. For instance, exercise bikes use eddy current brakes when riders simulate an uphill climb. This shift increases the drag between the bike’s magnet and the non-magnetic conductor.

The result is that the drag makes it more difficult for the rider to peddle. However, when the rider needs to decrease their incline, the brake can use this eddy current to make the transition seamless. 

The Stromag Emergency Brake in Industrial Equipment

Industrial equipment of all kinds, from vehicles to power tools, have safety concerns. In an emergency, regular brakes may not be fast enough to mitigate problems. Instead, this equipment needs a way to stop its movement instantly. 

That’s where an eddy brake comes in. These brakes utilize their eddy current to instantly shut down the equipment when the user engages the brake. 

Stromag’s type OOSA and OSA emergency brakes are often ideal for these scenarios. These products feature several top-quality benefits. They include fail-safe braking, braking by spring, an electromagnetic release, and more.

These models include additional options as well, such as their varying release mechanisms. These include manual release levers and hydraulic releases. You can also have them mounted on an axis disc.

Usage in Electric Trains

Electric trains also use Stromag clutch and brake models for their railway systems. There are two primary reasons for this: low maintenance costs and the brake’s speed.

Eddy current brakes provide a safe transition for moving trains. With their electric power transmission, these trains can smoothly decelerate in a way that offers comfort and safety for passengers. In addition, this technology has allowed several train types to reach higher speeds. 

Stromag has several rail brakes that aid in this power transmission. One such model is the GRBS brake, which uses state-of-the-art technology to balance the brake’s weight. 

Find Your Stromag Eddy Current Brake Today

Stromag produces several reliable and high-end brakes suitable for many purposes. If you need a Stromag eddy current brake, check out our products list today! In addition, we provide several brake types to help your business.

We also have maintenance and support services for companies using Stromag brakes. Contact our offices if your equipment needs support today.

 

What is the Best Brake Pad Material?

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Ceramic, semi-metallic, hybrid—which is the best brake pad material for you? That depends on what you need it for.

If you need brakes that stop fast without overheating, we’d suggest a semi-metallic friction material. But if you need brakes that are more gentle to your delicate machinery, you’ll want to go with ceramic brake pads. 

On the other hand, what about hybrid friction materials? What are the ideal uses for hybrid brakes?

Here’s an explanation of some options for brake pad friction material.

The following guide lists the pros and cons of various brake pads to make an informed decision. Discover how to choose the right kind of brakes for your equipment. 

1. Semi-Metallic Brake Pads

Semi-metallic brake pads are made of sintered metals combined with synthetic materials. These brake pads are the most heavy-duty option.

Specifically, they’re extremely hardy/long-lasting and have the best stopping power. They also resist heat very well.

However, one disadvantage of these brake pads is that they are very loud when stopping. Also, they are so hardy that using them might wear down your braking system more than wearing the pads. 

2. Ceramic Brake Pads

In contrast to semi-metallic brakes, ceramic brake pads are much more gentle. As a result, they are significantly quieter when stopping and are unlikely to wear down your machine. They also produce less dust.

However, the reason for these benefits is that ceramic pads are not as durable as semi-metallic brakes. In comparison, ceramic pads are more easily damaged and will wear out faster. They also do not have the stopping power of semi-metallic brake pads.

A problem to beware of with these pads is overheating. Ceramic pads are not designed for heavy use like semi-metallic pads are.

If they’re used too harshly, they overheat, which can damage your braking system. Therefore, ceramic pads are ideal for general/gentle use. 

3. Hybrid Brake Pads

Lastly, you can also choose a hybrid brake shoe friction material. These are so-named because they consist of a combination of both semi-metallic and ceramic brake materials.

As a result, they are the exact middle ground between the other two options in performance. For instance, they offer better stopping power, heat resistance, and durability than ceramic pads. But they aren’t so rigid that they wear down your machinery.

Which Is the Best Brake Pad Material For You?

For extremely heavy use, choose semi-metallic. If ceramic pads aren’t quite durable/heat-resistant enough, choose hybrid brakes for more general use. Lastly, for light-duty braking needs, choose ceramic pads.

Need Some Additional Help?

Based on these descriptions, you should now be able to determine the best brake pad material for your needs. However, if you’re still unsure, we can help.

We at Kor-Pak are industrial braking system experts. Contact us here so we can discuss the matter and help you get the product you need.

How Hydraulic Clamps Can Improve Production Efficiency

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There are a vast number of clamp types. Some are bulky, while others are discrete. The key is finding ones that are accurate and produce repeatable actions.

Did you know that hydraulic clamps are superior to other clamps?

This article will cover how hydraulic clamps improve productivity. We’ll also share how hydraulic clamps work and why you need them.

Improved Productivity

Hydraulic clamp systems improve productivity and reduce cycle times. Most workloads need equipment changes with bolts tightened to the proper torque. But with hydraulic clamps, you place the item in the fixture and push a button or flip a switch.

The hydraulic clamp gives you the exact right amount of working hold. This pressure is consistent and applies an even amount of pressure, giving you a precise amount of hold, unlike a manual clamp.

Productivity means creating a reliable and repeatable process. When production elements are accurate and in place, you gain efficiency. One of the culprits of poor productivity is the misalignment of a component held by a manual clamp.

Hydraulic clamping systems allow you to position clamps in a precise manner.

The clamps also provide the exact proper movement and force. This maximizes efficiencies and is predictable in determining your manufacturing capacity.

Well-defined specifications drive the manufacturing configuration and its installation.

Selecting a suitable clamp for your application reduces future calibration delays. It also reduces downtime and provides a great ROI. The proper configuration also reduces maintenance time.

Hydraulic Clamp Manufacturers

Manufacturers for hydraulic clamps include:

  • Enerpac
  • Roamheld
  • Fabco-Air
  • Steel-Smith
  • AMF
  • Clamptek
  • SPX
  • Merkle
  • Monroe
  • Olmec
  • Berg
  • Lupold
  • Vektek
  • Kurt Manufacturing
  • Hydrokomp
  • Guthle
  • Jergens

Hydraulic Clamp System

Hydraulic clamping systems are more than the sum of their parts. Selecting the right components for your environment is critical to your productivity. In addition, the materials, fabrication process, and any machining work affect the configuration.

The fabrication process impacts the clamps needed; for instance, an articulating arm or the stroke length factors into the process. This may also affect your power source and safety needs.

Materials also factor into the original build. The rigidity and size of the material affect the clamping position and force. Even the tensile strength may need a certain level of calculated precision in the design.

How Hydraulic Clamps Work

There are three basic types of hydraulic hold-down clamps: single-acting, double-acting, and swing cylinders.

Single-Acting Cylinders

This hydraulic device works in one direction. First, the hydraulic fluid pushes the piston rod. Then, another force returns it to the start position. These use little oil and need less valving and plumbing.

The retraction speed is much slower than the push.

Double-Acting Cylinders

This hydraulic device works in two directions. First hydraulic power moves the piston rod in both directions for faster movement, thus better controlling the clamp release.

Swing Cylinders

The swing stroke involves a piston and an attached arm that rotates 90º for placement. There is a second stroke for clamping. Once released, the clamp arm raises back out of the way for workpiece loading.

Designing Your Hydraulic Clamping System

Hydraulic clamps with suitable characteristics help you save time and boost productivity. The selection process looks at cylinder types, environment, fabrication process, and materials.

Kor-Pak can examine your needs and resources. Then we can give you a long-term solution with a great ROI. So contact us today to open a helpful discussion that will drive your productivity.