Did you know that cranes can operate from long distances? This is done by an overhead crane remote control and allows industrial machinery to be run remotely. Overhead cranes are an excellent choice if you’re looking to add efficiency and safety to your warehouse procedures.

The primary function of the crane remote is to increase the productivity and efficiency of your warehouse. By eliminating the need for workers to operate the crane while being inside it, you can streamline and improve your entire process.

To learn more about how a remote control crane can help your business, read on! 

What Is a Crane Remote Control?

A crane remote control is a remote-control system that consists of a portable transmitter unit. That transmitter unit is what generates the control signals which the crane receives.

There are several different types of cranes, including self-erecting, top-slewing, and flat-top. Each type has the potential to have remote control capabilities. This functionality is quickly becoming the standard for crane operation.

How Does It Work?

An overhead crane remote control handles the hydraulic winches and conveyor system in the overhead crane. This is what allows for the lifting and moving of heavy objects.

These controls can use radio frequencies to communicate with the crane and control its functions. You can use the remote controls in any location, but they must be within the distance required by the remote to function properly.

They can operate the boom of the crane, the main hoist, and the outriggers. It can also run with additional functions like jib angles, luffing, extending top jib, etc.

So how does it work exactly? The remote-control device works through communication between a transmitter and a receiver. 

When pressing any of the buttons on the transmitter, a signal travels to the receiver as radio waves. Those radio waves are perceived as data sent by the transmitter in an encrypted form. The purpose of this is to reduce any issue of potential external interruption within the system.

The transmitter works from as far as 200 meters away from the receiver. 

After the receiver gets the data, it decodes it and converts it into plain text. This is how the crane can mimic the functions inputted using the remote.

Benefits

Using a remote control crane allows operators to start and stop the lift and even set up automatic cycles to operate independently. This will enable people that once had to operate the crane by hand to work in other capacities, increasing productivity.

This increased automation also helps prevent accidents from occurring in your workplace. For example, there is less room for error during operation with an overhead crane remote control system in place.

Bring Your Cranes to the Next Level

Overhead crane remote controls are essential for productivity. In addition, they offer the benefit of additional safety by allowing operators to control the crane from far distances.

Although this type of machinery increases productivity and safety, it also poses an additional concern for some aspects of safety due to its remote capabilities. When using a crane remote control, remaining observant and conducting necessary safety checks are always necessary.

Whether you are just getting started in the industry or already established and need new machinery, crane parts, or crane repair, click here to find out more on how to get started.

Did you know the market size of overhead cranes is expected to reach $5043.7 million by 2027? A 4.9% increase from 2020 to 2027 suggests increased use of cranes. Why do you think the demand for cranes continues to grow?

An overhead crane system is a valuable asset to your company. It saves you the stress and time of lifting and transporting bulky loads.

What is an Overhead Crane System

An overhead crane is heavy-duty machinery. It is used to move bulky or heavy loads from one location to another.

The crane makes your manufacturing movements safe and precise. The crane system capitalizes on the overhead space of a manufacturing facility.

There are many types of cranes in terms of sizes, shapes, and configurations.

The diversity in configurations improves the capacity and performance of cranes when need be. Cranes’ primary function is loading and unloading, moving materials, lifting, and feeding raw materials.

How Does an Overhead Crane Work?

Moving bulky items in your facility, navigating aisles and floor spaces can be challenging. The overhead crane system has unique features to reduce the burden.

Power systems, electrical, mechanical, and controls facilitate its function. The electric hoist moves along the bridge to lift objects. Chain hoIsts are chain motors used to lift loads.

Cabins in cranes give visibility in the fieldwork.

Most cranes use an electric power supply, while others run on pneumatic power. The overhead controls give the operator complete control of the loads.

Start and Stop buttons command the crane’s movement. Advanced cranes feature joysticks and tablets to control a wide range of motion.

Crane parts differ depending on the type of crane. However, each overhead crane features a combination of configurations resourceful to its different functions.

You need an agile maintenance system for maximum functionality of your crane.

Benefits of Using Cranes

The value of overhead cranes is underestimated. Cranes facilitate the processing and handling of materials. The systems are relevant in assembly, transportation, staging, storage, or warehousing.

Cranes are adaptable and customizable to accommodate changing needs. For example, you may need the crane covering larger distances as your business grows. You can adjust the bridge and other features to match your emerging needs.

The machines have lower maintenance costs and labor expenses. However, employing staff to move bulky and heavy items can be costly.

You need long hours of labor and numerous staff to execute a single task. A crane will take a few minutes and a minimal power supply for the same job.

Overhead cranes automated system enables precise maneuvering through limited spaces.

Improve Your Operations with an Overhead Crane System

If your company requires the frequent movement of weighty load materials, it’s convenient to use overhead cranes.

Installing an overhead crane system makes work more efficient, cost-effective, and safer. In addition, overhead cranes can be engineered to fit your target applications.

Don’t struggle to navigate through your limited space or risk your employee’s life.

If you need overhead cranes or crane repairs, contact us for assistance.

Your overhead gantry crane is essential for your project. If it breaks, it can mean things halt until you fix it. 

The overhead crane market is worth $1,854.1 million. So there are plenty of others who know how much you rely on yours.

But there are so many options for crane repair. And when the pressure is on, choosing one can add to your stress.

Luckily, there are qualities to look for when picking a crane repair service. 

1. They Follow Safety Regulations

Choose a service that complies with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards.

Proper equipment assessments are vital. You don’t want to deal with a repair service that cuts corners to save time. Safety comes first, no matter how much you need to finish your work.

OSHA compliance gives you peace of mind. 

2. They Have Been Around For a Long Time

This is an indicator of their competence. The crane repair business is unforgiving to those with low work standards. Things look promising if they have been in the game for a while and have a solid customer base.

Their reputation is critical. Look for online reviews. Or ask contacts in your trade for an independent opinion.

You want to deal with true professionals. And you need to trust them to do the job. Years of satisfied customers can lead you to the right place.

3. They Use High-Quality Equipment

Different types of cranes need different treatments. Crane parts can be specific to models and brands. A professional inspection can tell you which components you need.

See if they have partnerships with well-known brands. Strong affiliations can be a sign of quality. Big brands avoid links to poor service providers.

Their equipment should be modern. Some services only replace their gear when it is falling apart. Look for well-maintained, clean equipment.

4. They Have Excellent Customer Service

Give them a call or send them a message. What are they like to deal with?

You want to feel welcome and in safe hands. Professional communication reflects professional conduct. And if they are friendly, that is a significant plus.

Reliable companies want to help. You want to trust them to help in case of delay or error. Can you reach them if you have any problems?

The best crane repair services have time for you.

5. They Can Repair Your Overhead Gantry Crane On Time

Ask for an average timeframe. And check any special requirements for your crane. For example, if they need to order parts, this could add days or even weeks. 

Avoid using a service with a hectic schedule. Things should be well-organized. If they take on more work than they can handle, expect to get pushed back.

Check if they offer any insurance for delays. Your overhead crane is a keystone. The longer it is out of action, the more time (and money) you could lose. 

Get Things Moving Today

Your overhead gantry crane is a vital tool, and getting it back to its best should be simple. Kor-Pak can help you do that.

Time of the essence? Just tell us what the problem is, and we’ll help you get things fixed fast.

Contact us for a quote today.

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

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

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

How They Are Similar

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

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

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

Identifying a Crane

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

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

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

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

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

Identifying a Derrick

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Maximize Your Machines

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Do You Maintain an Electrical Crane?

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

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

Lubricate It

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

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

Avoid Rusting

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

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

Frequent Examination

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

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

Are You in Need of an Electrical Crane?

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

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

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

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

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

The Basics of Hydraulics

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

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

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

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

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

Parts of a Hydraulic Crane System

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

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

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

Then there is the hydraulic lifting system and its pump.

Types of Hydraulic Crane Pumps

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

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

Gear Pumps

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

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

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

Variable-Displacement Pumps

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

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

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

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

Need Hydraulic Crane Parts or Repairs? 

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

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

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

Contact us today to find what you need.

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

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

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

Main Boom

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

Supporting Frame of Port Cranes

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

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

Spreader

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

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

Trolley

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

Legs

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

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

Power Supply and Cable Reel

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

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

Keep Your Equipment Working

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

Contact us today for repair parts!

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

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

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

What They Are

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

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

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

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

How Ship-to-Shore Cranes are Powered

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

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

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

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

How Much Can a Port Crane Lift?

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

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

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

Get the Most Out of Your Port Crane

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

Contact us today to speak with an expert.

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

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

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

Bent Hooks

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

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

Snapped Chain Links

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

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

Rusted Parts

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

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

Dry and Frayed Wire Rope

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

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

Worn Clutch or Brakes

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

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

Overhead Crane Repair: How to Prevent Problems

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

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

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

Keep Your Crane Running

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

Call us now to schedule a crane inspection. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fixed Crane

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

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

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

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

Choose the Right Crane for Your Site

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

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

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