Safety is crucial when operating heavy machinery like cranes. One key to ensuring this safety is keeping an eye on the brake caliper parts, which are critical for stopping the crane effectively. These parts are often stressed, and their failure can lead to serious safety risks.

This guide will help you recognize when these essential parts need attention or replacement so you can act before it’s too late. Let’s discover what signs to look for to keep your crane running safely.

Signs of Wear in Brake Caliper Parts

Brake calipers are essential for stopping your crane safely. They can wear out after many uses, especially under heavy loads. If they aren’t working right, your crane might not stop when you need it to or make unusual noises during operation. These are signs that your calipers might need a check-up or a replacement.

Recognizing these signs early can save you from bigger problems down the road. Let’s look at what specific wear signs to watch for to maintain your crane’s safety.

Importance of the Crane Braking System

The crane braking system is a crucial part of crane safety. This system makes sure the crane stops smoothly and safely, whether you’re moving loads up high or lowering them down. A well-maintained brake system prevents accidents by ensuring the crane stops precisely when and where it should.

The risk of dropping loads or other dangerous incidents increases without a reliable crane braking system. Keeping this system in top shape protects not only the crane and the materials it carries but also the people working around it. Regular checks and maintenance are critical to a safe and efficient work site.

Industrial Brake Calipers: Types and Maintenance

Industrial brake calipers come in various types, each designed for specific uses and crane models. Some are better for heavy-duty operations, while others are suited for lighter tasks. No matter the type, regular maintenance is critical.

Keeping your brake calipers in good shape helps prevent failures that could lead to severe accidents. This maintenance should include routine inspections, cleaning, and replacing worn parts. Staying on top of this care ensures your crane operates safely and efficiently.

Regular crane brake maintenance isn’t just a good practice; it’s crucial to keeping your worksite safe.

Identifying Low-Speed Failures in Emergency Brakes

Low-speed failures in crane emergency brakes can be subtle. Watch for signs like delayed stopping or a soft brake feel. Regularly checking and testing your crane emergency brakes helps catch these issues early, ensuring your crane operates safely and effectively every time.

Maintaining Brake Caliper Parts for Crane Safety

Maintaining your crane’s brake caliper parts is crucial for ensuring safety on site. These components are vital in stopping your crane efficiently and preventing accidents. Regular checks and replacements help keep your machinery operating reliably.

For expert maintenance and top-quality brake solutions like the Eaton Airflex products, consider contacting Kor-Pak. we specialize in robust and efficient braking systems, including advanced wet braking systems ideal for demanding conditions.

Contact Kor-Pak today to ensure your crane braking systems are at peak performance.

 

Industrial cranes are crucial in various industries, from manufacturing to construction. One essential component of these cranes is the wheel assembly, which is vital for their smooth operation. Proper maintenance of the wheel assembly is critical to ensuring the crane’s efficiency and longevity.

As a leading provider of industrial crane components, Kor-Pak understands the significance of a well-maintained wheel assembly and is here to guide you. Let’s explore things you need to know about maintaining the wheel assembly in industrial cranes.

Understanding the Function of a Wheel Assembly

The wheel assembly in an industrial crane serves as the point of contact between the crane and the runway system. It allows the crane to move along the tracks smoothly and supports its weight and the loads it carries.

The wheel assembly consists of several components that work together to facilitate the crane’s movement and ensure stability. These components include the wheels, bearings, axles, and other supporting structures. Each part plays a crucial role in maintaining the crane’s operational efficiency.

Maintenance Practices for Wheel Assemblies in Industrial Cranes

To ensure the smooth crane operation, the wheel assembly must be regularly inspected and maintained. You can spot possible problems early and take care of them before they get worse by adhering to a proactive maintenance schedule. 

By following these maintenance practices, you can prolong the life of the crane’s components and prevent costly downtime. If you encounter any issues with the wheel assembly or require replacement parts, don’t hesitate to contact Kor-Pak for high-quality crane wheels and components.

Regular Inspections

Regularly inspecting the wheel assembly is crucial for identifying wear and damage. Look for signs of wheel wear, such as flat spots or uneven wear patterns.

Inspect the bearings for signs of overheating or contamination. Promptly addressing these issues can prevent more significant problems later.

Lubrication

Proper lubrication of the wheel assembly components reduces friction and wear. Ensure the wheels, bearings, and axles are adequately lubricated according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Using the correct type of lubricant can prolong the life of the components and enhance the crane’s performance.

Cleaning

Keeping the wheel assembly clean is vital for preventing debris buildup and contamination. Regularly clean the wheels and bearings to remove dirt, dust, and other particles affecting their operation. Use appropriate cleaning tools and methods to avoid damaging the components.

Alignment

Proper alignment of the wheel assembly is crucial for maintaining the crane’s stability and preventing premature wear. Ensure that the wheels are aligned correctly with the tracks and that there is no excessive play or misalignment. Adjust the alignment as needed to ensure smooth operation.

Work With Kor-Pak for the Parts You Need

The wheel assembly is a vital component of industrial cranes that plays a crucial role in their functionality and safety. Regular maintenance of the wheel assembly is essential for preventing breakdowns and ensuring smooth operation.

Following the maintenance practices outlined here, you can keep your crane’s wheel assembly in optimal condition and maximize its lifespan. Remember, proactive maintenance is essential to avoiding costly repairs and downtime.

For all your crane wheel replacement and component needs, trust Kor-Pak to provide high-quality solutions tailored to your requirements. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.

 

The market value of global manufacturing is currently around $2.3 trillion. In such a large sector, quality technology is required for specialized applications. Selecting the appropriate industrial cranes for your manufacturing or construction team is essential.

Read on to learn some crane options to keep in mind for different applications.

Overhead Cranes

Overhead cranes are a common type of industrial crane. Also known as bridge cranes, they have two parallel runways with a traveling bridge in between them. The component that lifts loads moves along the bridge to move heavy cargo efficiently.

Most overhead cranes are electric. They’re controlled by a remote pendant or from an operator’s area. These cranes are ideal for situations where the aim is to work quickly and eliminate downtime when hauling large cargo or loads.

Tower Cranes

Tower cranes are what most people think of when they imagine a crane. Their primary uses are in construction because tall latices tower high into the sky. They have the unique ability to reach up to several stories to constrict several hundred-foot-tall skyscrapers effectively.

These cranes do not move once they arrive at the construction site. They are attached either to the ground or the side of the building structure. The former is more common, and the base is anchored to a large, stable concrete slab at the bottom of the building.

Jib Cranes

Jib cranes are not usually used in construction. They’re more suited to industrial and manufacturing applications. Some applications include metal fabrication, machine maintenance, and the movement of raw materials and components for machinery.

These cranes are used for smaller indoor applications. They’re simple to operate because of their basic design. Repetitive movements are their primary use.

Most jib systems are freestanding and move items in a small area at routine intervals. There are also foundationless jib cranes that don’t need a unique poured foundation and instead bolt to reinforced concrete. 

Gantry Cranes

Gantry cranes provide a stark contrast to jib cranes. Instead of being portable and usable in limited spaces, a gantry crane is massive. Some of them can lift over 20,000 tons!

These cranes are usually used in offshore oil rigs. They are also standard in harbors and shipyards. They aim to assemble large ship components in these locations.

Smaller gantry cranes can also be used in industrial warehouses. The crane bridge connects to tall wheeled legs at either end of the crane. This makes it moveable, so it can be more versatile.

Truck Mounted Cranes

A truck-mounted crane is more mobile than other crane options. They mount to a truck for easy use on large construction sites.

The parts of the crane extend either vertically or horizontally. These outriggers keep it stable and secure while carrying loads of any size.

Beyond the Types of Industrial Cranes

Understanding the available types of industrial cranes is only the tip of the iceberg. Doing additional research and getting a quote for your specific needs is critical. Contact Kor-Pak to ask any remaining questions and get a pricing estimate online. 

 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics cites over 2.6 million nonfatal workplace injuries annually. It’s critical that industrial plants limit the likelihood of accidents that can cause incidents.

Preventing crane accidents may sound challenging, but you can mitigate risk in some simple ways. Read on to learn how to ensure crane safety for employees and supervisors.

Choose Quality Accessories

Your equipment requires quality brakes and accessories to minimize risk. Well-made electric and secondary brakes decrease the potential for brake failure. Reinforced hooks and accessories ensure the crane can handle heavy loads without breaking or dropping them.

Research available options and purchase accessories from a reputable source. Make sure that you know the specifications of your crane so that you can meet size and weight requirements when ordering.

Inspect Equipment Adequately

Make sure to inspect your equipment daily. Most crane accidents are not the result of misuse but instead happen during routine operations.

Look at the handling and weighing equipment before operating heavy machinery. This will ensure that everything is in order so you can remain safe.

Consider creating a safety checklist with a concrete list of actions to take during the inspection process. That way, you will not forget simple checks that could avoid devastating consequences.

Train Qualified Operators

Not just anyone can operate an industrial crane. OSHA has fairly strict requirements for who can utilize one. This makes sense, considering that cranes are unique pieces of heavy equipment that could cause fatal consequences for untrained users.

Those operating cranes must have gone through extensive training. They need certification to operate the machinery. Additionally, this entails receiving a physical and mental readiness assessment from workers on the job site.

Create an Ideal Work Area

You need to use your crane in an area with ample space for maneuvering. Ensure it’s large enough for the crane to move about freely.

This means planning the crane’s path ahead of its use. You must clear the area of obstacles and hazards. If you can’t get rid of certain fixtures, like buildings, it’s essential that everyone knows their whereabouts and keeps a safe distance from them.

An ideal workspace also means one that is free of distractions. Ask that operators shut off their cell phones if they are not using them to communicate with workers on the ground.

A signal person should also lead the crane from the ground while it moves. Their vantage point is a surefire way to avoid obstacles.

Perform Daily Checks

In addition to routine inspection, you will need to perform daily operator checks on the crane.

Make sure that the basic features work properly. Operators must be able to move and control the crane predictably.

After that, make sure that the engine starts up correctly.

Finally, test the safety systems in place on the crane. Doing this daily is critical to ensuring that accident-preventing failsafe works properly.

Minimize the Risk of Crane Accidents

Now that you know some tips for preventing crane accidents, it’s time to upgrade your industrial plant with quality parts. Our team is committed to providing long-lasting products from trusted manufacturers.

Request a quote from Kor-Pak to learn more about the costs of your specific needs.

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.

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!

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.

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.

Humans have been using cranes for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations. For example, the ancient Greeks and Romans employed various types of cranes for construction.

In modern times, cranes have become essential tools in various industries worldwide. These include construction, manufacturing, and logistics.

Today, there exists a wide range of different crane types that can be utilized on various projects. Here’s a guide to various cranes, their uses, features, and benefits.

Static Cranes

Also known as tower cranes, static cranes are often seen towering over construction sites. These cranes are fixed to the ground or a structure, providing excellent stability and a high lifting capacity.

They are commonly used for tall building construction. This is because they can reach great heights and have a long horizontal reach. In addition, their versatility and ability to lift heavy loads make them indispensable in large-scale construction projects. 

Mobile Cranes

Mobile cranes are highly flexible and can be easily transported to different job sites. In addition, these cranes feature a wheeled or tracked undercarriage that allows them to move around the worksite easily.

Mobile cranes come in various configurations, including:

• All-terrain cranes
• Hydraulic truck cranes
• Crawler cranes
• Rough-terrain cranes

They are ideal for applications requiring frequent repositioning or projects in areas with limited access.

Overhead Cranes

Also known as bridge cranes, these cranes are typically installed in industrial facilities, warehouses, and manufacturing plants. They consist of a horizontal beam that runs along elevated rails, allowing the crane to traverse the workspace.

Overhead cranes are ideal for lifting and moving heavy loads within a fixed area. They offer high lifting capacities and precise control. They can also efficiently handle repetitive material handling tasks.

Crawler Cranes

Crawler cranes are equipped with tracks similar to those found on bulldozers or excavators. These tracks provide stability and enable the crane to traverse rough terrains, for example, on uneven surfaces and soft soils.

Crawler cranes are known for their exceptional lifting capacities. As a result, they are often used in heavy construction projects, bridge construction, and off-road applications.

Guide to Crane Types and Their Uses

The bottom line is that understanding the different types of cranes and their specific uses is crucial for selecting the right equipment for various projects. In addition, choosing suitable crane types for a particular project will contribute to the overall success.

Here at Kor-Pak, we service and supply an extensive range of industries. These include the agriculture, steel, oil, port, transportation, and wind turbine industries. In addition, we are committed to providing custom engineering services.

If you would like to learn more about our services, don’t hesitate to contact our team. Click here to get in touch.

The construction economy is worth nearly $1.8 trillion, making it crucial to understand how to select the equipment. Crane accessories are a core part of any construction project. However, it’s daunting to operate an industrial crane.

Here are some things to consider.

1. Consider the Duration of the Job

Moving a crane out to a job site is a massive undertaking. Between securing permits and obtaining the equipment, a team needs to make a plan of precisely what’s necessary.

During this step, one should consider how long the team will use the crane. Planning out the schedule can help pick crane accessories.

Overhead cranes are often used for larger, more industrial purposes. However, workers should also consider smaller and easier-to-transport cranes, depending on the job. An estimated amount of time these cranes will be used also helps the team decide which accessories to purchase.

2. Think of the Conditions of the Construction Site

Another critical factor in picking accessories and parts is the conditions of the construction site. In some construction environments, the team may need a different base accessory, a more substantial counterweight, etc.

A team should survey the construction site and think of where they’ll run the crane. For example, are frequent storms leaving the area in swampy conditions? Is the ground unpaved and full of loose sand?

Check where the crane will be before deciding on any accessories. Doing so will help the team narrow down options.

3. Keep the Budget in Mind

For any construction project, staying within the budget is always the goal. Therefore, a team needs to keep the constraints of the construction budget in mind while picking the crane’s accessories.

Knowing the budget will help to list accessories that will stay in the available funds. However, these accessories can add up to increase the cost of the crane.

Make sure to understand how much the team has available to spend. Consider creating several lists of accessories to help pick from the best options. A budget that allows for some leeway is essential. 

4. Maintenance and Ease of Use

Finally, one should consider how the chosen accessory will affect the construction team. For example, the maintenance and ease of use of different cranes require different skill sets and equipment.

For example, not all crane hooks are attached in the same manner. Consider the team’s abilities and relevant training. Getting equipment that nobody has the training to use will waste time and funds.

Another choice is on-the-job training. Again, whether the crew uses overhead or an industrial crane, a knowledgeable team is vital.

The Perfect Crane Accessories

Picking crane accessories can make or break a team’s construction efforts. Ensure a budget is set beforehand so the team is aware of any restrictions on their crane supplies.

For more information on crane parts, be sure to contact us.