Exploring Different Types of Crawler Cranes for Different Applications

Having the right crawler crane is crucial for a successful construction project. This is one of the main reasons why the crawler crane market is worth around $2.17 billion

So, what kind of crawler cranes are available? Which one works best for specific construction projects? 

This guide will answer those questions and more. 

Load Sense System 

Companies can look for a load sense system from crawler crane suppliers. This allows companies to understand better what kind of stress they are putting on a crane. 

Is the load going to be too heavy? Is it loosening up unexpectedly? Is there too much movement from side to side? 

These are things that crawler cranes with a load sense system can manage. It is a safety measure that helps ensure the load can reach its final destination properly. 

Counterweight System 

Another thing companies should look for from a crawler crane supplier is a crawler crane that has a counterweight system in place. This makes the counterweight more automated than with more traditional cranes.

Essentially, the counterweight system measures where the counterweight needs to go while a load is lifted. From there, it will automatically move to a new position as the load moves. 

This is crucial, considering how much weight a crane can carry at one time. On average, crawler cranes can lift up to 20 tons. The system here helps the efficiency and safety standards of those types of loads. 

Integrated Control System 

Companies looking for a crawler crane with a system with everything in one place should look no further. An integrated control system can tell an operator everything they need to know about this crane. 

Examples include the engine status, the fuel, what kind of oil the crane has, wind speeds, what angle the crane is working from, and more. 

The point is that an operator should be aware of any aspect of the crawler crane. This type of control system can keep operators more efficient and organized. 

Lattice Boom 

Finally, this type of crawler crane model gives companies more insurance that the crane can lift the required loads. This is done by providing wheels in the undercarriage to help with its mobility. On top of this, the lattice boom feature was designed to lift the heaviest loads and make it easier to erect the boom wherever it is needed. 

Use Crawler Cranes 

These are some of the different crawler cranes that companies can choose from. These crawler cranes are efficient and valuable, but the best ones will fit particular company needs. 

A lattice boom crane can suit companies needing extra heavy load insurance. An integrated control system is excellent for companies looking to maximize efficiency. 

A counterweight and load sense system is perfect for companies dealing with sensitive loads. To get started, request a quote here.

Operation and Maintenance Tips for Overhead Cranes

They’re some of a construction company’s most dependable workers. They help move and lift heavy loads, tear down buildings, and shift heavy objects around. A construction business couldn’t imagine doing business without these “workers” – their cranes – but they could become enemies if not cared for properly.

Research shows that nearly 300 crane-related fatalities occurred between 2011 and 2017. That’s more than 40 yearly. Crane deaths and injuries may happen due to unsafe crane operation or defective machines.

How can companies operate overhead cranes properly? Let’s explore how to use and maintain an overhead bridge crane safely.

Operation Tips For Overhead Cranes

Inspect a crane’s wire rope, lifting hook, and brake before using the machine. Hire a mechanic to address any abnormalities right away.

Suppose a machine appears to be in excellent condition. Encourage staff members to use signal commands when communicating with the crane operator from the ground.

Workers should extend their arms with their palms down and swing their arms to tell the crane operator to stop due to an emergency. Their arms should touch their chest and then go to their sides. Workers should use just one arm to perform these motions to indicate a regular stop.

Does a crane operator need to turn down the equipment’s power supply? Make sure no one is around.

An individual may become electrocuted if they touch the crane’s power supply. The crane’s load might also swing or fall when the equipment loses power, posing a risk of injury to anyone below.

Never leave the crane’s power supply on when performing machine maintenance (more on care next). Post a sign in the area indicating that maintenance is being performed. This will warn others to steer clear of the maintenance area to avoid electrocution or being struck by the crane’s load.

Add corners to the parts of a crane where chains or ropes pass through. This will protect the chains and ropes from damage, friction, and abrasion, extending their life.

Maintenance Tips For Overhead Cranes

An overhead crane might become misaligned after being used for an extended period. This might cause the equipment to lean, placing extra tension on it.

Consult a reliable crane repair company as soon as possible if a crane looks or feels misaligned. Misalignment may lead to excessive wear on the machine’s components, including the brakes, motors, gears, and wheels. The crane may fail, derail, or collapse if not fixed.

Ensure each crane’s hook is in good condition daily. It shouldn’t feature any bends or cracks since it lifts heavy loads.

Inspecting connections and chains in the crane hoist is another crucial maintenance step. The hoist lowers and lifts bulky or heavy loads using a wheel or drum with a wire rope or chain. Hoists should last for years but might need replacing if they develop rust, damage, or wear over time.

How We Can Help With Crane Parts

Operating overhead cranes safely requires using proper hand signals and not turning down the machine’s power supply when people are nearby. Examining cranes’ hooks and hoists as part of a company’s regular maintenance process can help ensure they’re in excellent condition.

Kor-Pak is a leading overhead crane supplier. We’re passionate about keeping cranes running with our overhead crane parts from brands like Stromag and Johnson. Request a free quote today!

Common Types of Tower Cranes and Their Versatility in the Industry

Cranes have existed in some form for over 5,000 years. The Mesopotamians were the ones who first used them to water crops in what is now Iraq.

The invention of modern tower cranes is credited to Hans Liebherr in 1949, who sought an easier way to rebuild Germany after the Second World War.

Liebherr’s namesake company is still a major player in the industry. Not all tower cranes are created equal, though. Companies select them based on the task they need to perform.

Hammerhead Tower Crane

Named for their distinct appearance, hammerhead cranes are static ones used on large construction projects. Those who’ve served in the Navy might have seen them on battleships. They saw heavy use in WWII, not only because it made building ships easier but also as a way to launch planes from the ships.

The complicated setup means that companies often prefer hammerhead cranes in situations requiring long-term crane use. The best example of this is the freight industry.

Hammerhead cranes dominate the freight industry, with many cargo vessels equipped with them. According to the US Department of Agriculture, this sector is growing. While the number of ships fitted with cranes shows little change, the size of those ships and the amount of cargo they carry is increasing. 

Luffing Tower Crane

A luffing crane is a static crane similar to a hammerhead crane. The difference is that the jib on a luffing crane is angled and can be raised and lowered by narrowing or widening the angle.

This gives the crane a significant advantage in confined workspaces where architecture or natural features prevent the use of hammerhead cranes.

The more compact design allows this crane to lift heavier objects than its counterpart. While this makes a luffing crane safe for civilians, it doesn’t help the operator much. For this reason, it’s essential to keep the machine well-maintained and repair it when necessary.

Telescopic Crane

Telescopic cranes have many applications in the modern world. Firetrucks have telescopic cranes built into them for rescuing trapped civilians and fighting fires at higher elevations.

These differ from construction cranes because the cab is located at the end of the tower/jib. This puts the operator in significantly more danger.

On Acquisition

The specialization of tower cranes has created an interesting situation for construction companies. The variety of cranes and their specialties make keeping a private crane supply impractical. The company will spend more time maintaining a machine than using it.

Tower crane rentals are the best option in this market. Manufacturers know this and have turned tower crane rental into a significant portion of their business model.

Types of Tower Cranes and Their Uses

The demands of today’s industrialized world call for an assortment of tower cranes and other heavy equipment. Each crane type was built to work in a specific situation, and each has its own adaptations.

Kor-pak is a leader in crane replacement parts. Contact us.

Mobile Cranes: 3 Tips for Choosing the Best Option for Your Project

Every year, the construction industry creates nearly $2 trillion of structures. The construction companies that operate within this industry often need to invest in mobile cranes to help them carry out projects.

If you’re preparing to tackle a construction project requiring a mobile crane, you’ll have plenty of options available. Whether you secure a short-term mobile crane rental or purchase a crane through a mobile crane supplier, it’ll be important to obtain the right one.

Here are three tips for choosing the right mobile cranes for construction projects.

1. Learn About the Different Types of Mobile Cranes

So many different types of cranes fall into the mobile crane category. From crawler cranes to truck cranes to overhead cranes, each option will bring something slightly different to the table.

When working with mobile crane suppliers, those in the construction industry should always analyze each mobile crane option out there for them. It’ll make it possible to select the right type of mobile crane based on when, where, and how it’ll be used.

2. Determine How Powerful Mobile Cranes Must Be

In addition to picking out the right types of mobile cranes, those in the construction industry will also need to consider how powerful they’ll need them to be. Not every mobile crane will be capable of handling the same loads as other mobile cranes might be able to tackle.

It would be worth getting a general idea of how much the loads on your construction site will weigh. It’ll make it much easier to select a mobile crane with the necessary lifting capacity.

You should also consider things like horizontal distance and lift height to ensure a mobile crane will be tall enough to lift loads to where they need to go on a construction site.

3. Assess the Conditions for Mobile Cranes

When construction projects occur in large, open areas, those in the construction industry who rely on them can go with almost any mobile crane they want. But when these projects occur in tighter quarters, it might be impossible to squeeze certain types of mobile cranes into them.

Before securing mobile crane rentals or buying mobile cranes, construction companies should evaluate the working conditions that will exist on a construction site and choose a mobile crane accordingly. It’ll need to be the correct size so that it’ll be easy to get onto a site.

Choose the Right Mobile Crane for a Construction Project

Choosing the right mobile cranes for construction projects isn’t always easy. Since there are so many options, those in the construction industry will need to consider many factors.

Use the tips found here as you set out to search for a mobile crane. And no matter which mobile crane you end up with, make sure you maintain and service it properly.

Kor-Pak can set you up with the heavy-duty parts you’ll need for mobile cranes. Check out our inventory to see what we can provide.

Industrial Drum Brake Replacement: 3 Things You Should Know

The cost of unplanned downtime can be as high as $9,000 per minute.

Drum brakes are essential for the operations of businesses in many industries. The unexpected need for a drum brake replacement can cost significant time and money. You can minimize the damage by being prepared.

Learn more about drum brake replacement in heavy industry and how to get brakes back to optimal performance.

1. The Whole Brake Mechanism May Not Need Replacement

If you notice problems like unusual noise or vibration in your drum brakes, you may not need to replace the entire brake mechanism. Drum brakes include:

  • Drum
  • Backing plate
  • Brake shoe
  • Wheel cylinder
  • Return springs
  • Self-adjuster

Worn brake shoes can cause a range of noises, like squeaking, scraping, or grinding sounds. If you notice the problem soon enough, you can replace the brake shoes and prevent damage to other brake components.

A worn brake drum can cause vibrations when braking. A warped drum doesn’t make proper contact with the shoes. If other brake parts haven’t been compromised, you can replace the drum to fix the problem.

An inspection will show how many parts need replacement.

2. Choosing the Right Drum Brake Replacement Is Critical

Drum brakes come in many different types to match the application. Accidentally choosing the wrong type could result in catastrophic failure.

A drum brake must have enough braking torque. It must be a size and model that can dissipate the energy from braking without overheating. Other design factors include:

  • Electro-hydraulic or magnetic actuator
  • AC or DC power
  • Shunt or series-wound coils
  • AISE or DIN standards

In most cases, the drum brake replacement should be the same as the original brake. However, if you need a drum brake replacement due to unusual wear, the original brake may not have been the best for the application. An industrial brake specialist can help evaluate the best solution for different drum brake applications.

3. Quality Parts Are Worth the Cost

A drum brake replacement is not the place to cut costs. Drum brakes are essential for the safety of your operations. When a drum brake replacement is necessary, quality matters.

You can choose OEM or aftermarket brakes. Original OEM parts provide reliable quality. They’re usually more expensive, though.

Aftermarket drum brakes are typically more economical. You can find high-quality parts if you use the right manufacturer. In addition, aftermarket parts may help you meet the specific demands of your application.

Find the Best Industrial Drum Brakes and Parts for Every Application

Problems with your industrial drum brake can’t be ignored. Optimal brake performance is essential for your operations.

A detailed inspection will show whether a full drum brake replacement is necessary. High-quality parts from a reliable manufacturer will continue to meet your application’s demands.

Kor-Pak manufactures and supplies OEM and aftermarket parts. We specialize in industrial brakes. We can design a custom drum brake if our extensive catalog doesn’t have exactly what you need.

Contact Kor-Pak today for a quote or more information about our industrial drum brakes.

Different Types of Hydraulic Clamps and Their Uses

Hydraulic clamps are essential tools in factories and manufacturing. They hold workpieces during different processes.

These powerful devices use hydraulic pressure. The pressure creates clamping force, ensuring stability and safety.

This article will explore the various types of hydraulic clamps. It will also explain how they work in different industries. Continue reading to learn more about the versatile hydraulic clamp.

Swing Clamps

Swing clamps are also called swing cylinders. They are popular in automated production lines and machining centers. They swing into position and clamp workpieces, saving space when not in use. You can find them in welding fixtures, assembly lines, and with robots that do manufacturing processes.

Push-Pull Clamps

Push-pull clamps use a push-pull mechanism to provide balanced clamping force. They are useful for holding parts in place during drilling, milling, or welding. Industries like woodworking, metalworking, and plastic molding use these clamps.

Pull Clamps

Pull clamps are perfect for holding thin materials, like sheet metal or plates. They exert a pulling force to prevent deformation. The automotive and aerospace industries get a lot of use out of these clamps. They work well in these industries because they help in assembling large panels.

Hydraulic Pipe Clamps

A hydraulic pipe clamp fastens pipes and tubes in hydraulic systems. They provide stability and prevent movement, ensuring efficient fluid flow and minimizing potential leaks and idle time. Hydraulic pipe clamps are widely used in industrial applications and construction projects.

Threaded Body Clamps

Threaded body clamps have an adjustable threaded body to control clamping height. They can work in fixtures and jigs where precise workpiece height is necessary. Threaded body clamps are common in milling, drilling, and inspection setups.

Block Clamps

Block clamps secure workpieces against the table or fixture. They are crucial in milling, drilling, and shaping operations to prevent workpiece movement. Block clamps come in different sizes and shapes to fit various workpiece configurations.

Hydraulic Line Clamps

A hydraulic line clamp holds hydraulic lines or tubes firmly in place. They ensure proper alignment, prevent vibrations, and reduce the risk of damage or leaks in hydraulic systems. These clamps are crucial for maintaining the efficiency and safety of hydraulic operations.

Swing Arm Clamps

Swing arm clamps are compact and space-saving. Common industry uses include machining, welding, and assembly processes. The pivoting arm allows easy access to the workpiece for loading and unloading.

Hydraulic Hose Clamps

A hydraulic hose clamp secures hydraulic hoses tightly onto fittings and connectors. They prevent leaks and ensure a reliable flow of hydraulic fluid in various applications, from heavy machinery to automotive systems.

Uses for Hydraulic Clamps

Hydraulic clamps are vital tools in manufacturing that provide secure workpiece holding solutions. Each type of hydraulic clamp has unique features. These unique features make them suitable for specific jobs. 

If you need to find the right hydraulic clamps for your manufacturing needs, you need to speak with an expert. Get in touch with the professionals at Kor-Pak. 

Industrial Disc Brake Pads: 3 Tips for Choosing the Right Manufacturer

Equipment failure in industrial settings is the leading cause of accidents. Some of those failures were due to poorly manufactured industrial brakes. In such high-stakes environments, the quality of disc brake pads becomes paramount.

Poor quality or performance can result in problems or even serious accidents. That’s why choosing the proper manufacturer for disc brake pads is essential.

Keep reading to explore these critical considerations. The information will help professionals in the industrial machinery sector make better choices.

1. Industry Certifications: A Seal of Reliability

When sourcing disc brake pads for industrial use, certifications play a critical role. Labels like ISO 9001 are more than just industry jargon. They show a manufacturer’s dedication to quality.

These certifications come from rigorous testing and adherence to international standards. They assure that the product meets strict criteria for performance and safety.

In industrial settings, disc brake pads endure harsh conditions and heavy usage. A certified manufacturer guarantees that the pads can withstand these challenges. 

Certifications should be among the first criteria when selecting a manufacturer for industrial disc brakes. They offer confidence that the product will meet the specialized needs of industrial applications.

2. Customization Capabilities: One Size Doesn’t Fit All

Industrial applications for disc brake pads are diverse, covering everything from wind turbines to port cranes. Given this wide range of uses, the ability to customize is essential. A manufacturer that can tailor disc brake pads to specific needs is a valuable partner.

For instance, a brake pad suitable for a conveyor belt might not be fit for a high-speed train. A manufacturer with customization capabilities can adapt disc brake pads to various needs. It can enhance both safety and performance.

When assessing manufacturers, look for those that offer customization options. Whether it’s adjusting the material composition or the size and shape of the pads, these custom features make a big difference. A tailored disc brake pad will likely perform better and last longer in its specific setting.

3. Proven Track Record: Credibility Matters

A manufacturer’s history can speak volumes in an industry as critical as this. A proven track record isn’t just a bonus; it’s often a requirement when sourcing disc brake pads for industrial applications. After all, these components are part of systems where failure is not an option.

Manufacturers with years of experience have had the time to:

  • Refine their products
  • Correct issues
  • Adapt to industry changes

This experience leads to more reliable disc brake pads that are suited for their intended purpose.

To assess a manufacturer’s credibility, consider looking at:

These can give you an idea of the manufacturer’s standing in the market. It’s also wise to check if the company has a history of meeting delivery timelines and providing good customer service.

The Strategic Path to Sourcing High-Quality Disc Brake Pads

Ready to take the next step in securing high-quality disc brake pads? Kor-Pak offers a range of industrial braking solutions that meet stringent quality and performance criteria.

Don’t compromise; choose a partner that understands the intricate needs of industrial braking systems. Reach out today for more information.

3 Tips for Choosing Brakes and Accessories for Port Cranes

Since the marine market is worth over $165.12 billion, maintaining safety and reliability is critical for offshore equipment. This means selecting the appropriate brakes and accessories for port cranes in these areas.

Read on for tips on choosing these port crane accessories the right way.

1. Understand Requirements and Available Options

There are several different needs that a port crane may need to accommodate. Some may require electric brakes for primary braking, but it’s also possible that you simply need secondary brakes. Inspect the crane thoroughly to determine what the issue is.

You also may require accessories like caliper disc breaks. These stop loads from failing if there’s a loss of power or transmission failure. If your crane is losing efficiency or you think you’re likely to lose electricity offshore, keeping these up to date is important.

You also may require storm brakes if you’re contending with a runaway crane. This is especially important in windy shore areas. Railhead clamps and wheel brakes are also common accessories needed in these scenarios.

2. Know the Ins and Outs of the Crane

Inspecting all facets of your crane is critical when choosing brake parts. If your brakes work slowly or fail to stop machinery correctly, you will want to look at the primary brakes. This is also true if they’re making unnecessary sounds.

Ask a professional industrial inspector to look at your crane. They will inform you of any problems that they notice.

Additionally, it’s important that you know what sizes of brakes and accessories you need. Brakes for port cranes and additional parts come in many shapes and sizes. This makes sense when you consider how diverse cranes are.

Get thorough measurements of the parts that you’re replacing. You could spend thousands on non-compatible industrial parts if you are not careful.

3. Work With a Reputable Retailer

To choose top-notch crane parts, choosing a high-quality retailer of industrial parts and accessories is important. If you purchase something inexpensive but low-end, you will need to quickly replace it.

Even worse, it could pose a safety hazard for those working offshore. This is not only bad because it can cause injury but also because it can lead to legal issues such as personal injury lawsuits.

Kor-Pak has dozens of years of experience providing quality crane brakes and accessories. Since we also supply parts for tugs and barges, it’s possible to meet all offshore equipment needs quickly and seamlessly. You can retrofit existing applications and purchase new parts that make port cranes operate more smoothly, efficiently, and safely.

Find Brakes and Accessories for Port Cranes Today

Now that you have some tips on choosing the right accessories for port cranes, it’s time to boost your industrial equipment’s functionality. Kor-Pak is committed to providing high-quality equipment for marine applications so that you can maintain ship-to-shore safety. Contact us with any remaining questions you have about your equipment and individual needs.

How Do Industrial Rotor Brakes Work?

Industrial machinery plays a variety of roles in society. It helps with everything from energy production and construction to manufacturing essential products. 

The industrial machinery market is worth more than $545 billion today. It’s also growing at a rate of 7.7%  

With so many different industrial machines constantly in use, industrial businesses must understand the most important parts. Industrial brakes are among the most critical parts of any machinery companies use. 

These points will explain all about industrial rotor brakes, how they work, and other key tips that will make a difference. 

The Parts of Rotor Brakes

Get to know some of the main components that make up braking systems. This includes brake rotors, calipers, shoes, master cylinders, wheel cylinders, and brake pads. 

These parts interact seamlessly to stop and slow down industrial machine production. Industrial brakes are found in a wide variety of parts, including cranes, conveyor belts, and other types of industrial equipment. 

How the Braking System Works

Get to know rotor braking systems and how they work so that you’re always prepared to repair your machinery. The rotor is a metal disc connected to the pad inside the brake system. 

When the brake pads and brake rotors engage, it creates enough friction to stop motion. If gradual resistance is preferred, smaller brake rotors are best. If more immediate stops with less “give” are needed, it pays to look into larger brake rotors. 

Consider whether these brakes will get consistent use with machinery like industrial cranes or if they will serve as emergency brakes that will stop the machinery to avoid potential catastrophe. 

Potential Issues With Rotor Brakes

Industrial workers need to be on top of the red flags and issues to handle the care of brakes as required. When you can quickly respond to a problem, it becomes easier to keep industrial machinery intact and avoid issues with the rest of the infrastructure. 

Hearing grinding and screeching sounds when the brakes engage is one of the most significant issues to be mindful of. This is usually a sign that the brake pads are wearing out and the metal is engaging with metal. Eventually, the brakes won’t be able to stop and they will fail the machinery. 

When the brake rotor starts to have a smoother finish, it’s also a sign that it is wearing down. This decreases stopping distances which can also bring more danger to the machinery. 

Make sure to stay on top of the different brake maintenance and repair forms, including cleaning and rewinding the coils, relining the brakes, and getting your brake shoes repaired. Staying on top of these issues will help get the best performance out of the rotor brakes. 

Understanding How Brakes Work

These tips are helpful when looking into rotor brakes, the different parts, and how they can serve your company. Kor-Pak can help when you’re looking for the best industrial brakes around. To get in touch, use our contact form or call (888)256-7725.

Should You Repair or Replace Parts on Wind Turbines?

Wind turbines face harsh conditions, like icy high winds and the risk of bird strikes.

Even the most well-maintained machines need regular repairs and replacement parts. But sometimes, deciding whether to repair or replace is a grey area. This guide helps shed some light on what decision to make.

Read on to learn about the economic and technical factors shaping a decision on what to do when faced with turbine damage.

Wind Turbines: What’s the Typical Lifespan?

A typical modern wind turbine has a lifespan of around 20 years. That depends on whether the wind turbine has received regular maintenance. Ideally, the owner should inspect and maintain a wind turbine every six months.

Some wind turbines can last as long as 25 years in favorable conditions. Offshore wind turbines have a slightly shorter lifespan because of the weather conditions. Expect these to last around 15-20 years instead.

If the turbine parts are near the end of life, replacing them makes sense rather than applying a fix. Doing so could improve the turbine’s longevity. 

Potential Damage to Wind Turbines

Wind turbines are at risk of damage. Without timely repair, it may shorten their lifespan. Typical damage includes mechanical issues like gearbox failure or blade erosion.

The wind turbine could become damaged by the weather. High winds can break blades. Lightening strikes or icy conditions are two other common causes. Saltwater erosion in offshore turbines could also shorten their lifespan.

The Economics of Repairs Vs. Replacements

Whether to repair or replace parts on a wind turbine will often come down to costs.

Repairing will be the most cost-effective option if the damage is minor and cheap to resolve. It means extending the lifespan without a significant additional investment.

For example, minor damage could be a crack in the blade from debris or birds. If left unattended, it could escalate into a significant problem. But a quick repair to the damage can get the turbine running efficiently again without a significant expense.

With significant damage, it may be more financially viable to replace the part instead. That is often the case with an outdated part that’s impossible to replace like-for-like.

Plus, newer replacement parts can bring efficiency improvements. Therefore they offer better cost-savings in the long run.

Technical Challenges of Repairs Vs. Replacements

In addition to cost, it’s essential to consider the technical challenges faced with repairing wind turbines. A lengthy and complex repair to the braking systems for wind turbines might not be the best course of action compared to a replacement.

Any delay will cost a business due to the downtime of that turbine. For example, some parts might be hard to access and require specialized machinery or technicians.

Likewise, a sizeable part like a blade will take effort and heavy machinery to replace, so it may not be worth it for a minor and repairable issue.

Professional Solutions for Wind Turbines 

A decision to repair or replace parts on wind turbines should happen case-by-case. It depends on the complexity of the repair, the cost, and the age of the part and turbine.

Reach out to Kor Pak Corporation for professional guidance. We provide engineering specialists and turbine parts to provide you with custom solutions for your turbine and wind energy needs.