Cranes are a crucial part of the construction process. Primarily known for lifting and moving heavy objects, these machines have been around since the ancient times.

Let’s take ancient Egypt for example. Back in the day when they wanted to transport water up, and down the Nile River they used a crane called a shaduf.

This crane consisted of a bucket/weight system where the user would pull the bucket down on one side and allow the heavyweight to pull the bucket up on the other side.

Thanks to technology, modern cranes don’t require that much arm work. With a push of a button, heavy objects are now lifted and placed precisely how where you need them.

So the question is: How are cranes built now? How did we evolve? Let’s take a look.

Let’s Talk About The Basics: How Are Cranes Built?

What does it take to construct one of these monstrous machines? How are they able to work so effectively?

Depending on the size, a crane can weigh anywhere from 10 tons to 300 tons and can hold up to 400,000 pounds. So when it comes to the crane structure, clearly every manufactured part is vital to make this move and lift exactly how it’s supposed to.

1. Making Steel Components

When it comes to figuring out how cranes are made, steel is the essential material in the manufacturing process. Melted iron is taken through a furnace where carbon is removed via the oxygen blasted in the liquid.

Much like the welding process, the steel is melted and molded in high temperatures to form flat sheets, rods, and bars that make up the crane material.

2. Assembly

After the components are intricately cut and formed – it is then moved into an assembly line where the welding and bolting process begins.

Different cranes require different types of machine operation. For instance, a mobile crane is usually assembled to the blueprint of a truck or crawler. Contingent upon the size, the cranes may either be assembled in the factory or broken down and put together on site.

3. Quality Check

Every single crane has to go through a quality check inspection. Assuring the security of the crane is one of the most important factors in this process.

From the largest sheet of metal to the smallest cable, these pieces arrive at a crane manufacturer where they go through lathes, drills, and precision machinery where they’re shaped to form mobile crane parts, hoists, and other important parts that make up the crane design.

Let Us Be Your #1 Source For All Your Industrial Needs.

There you have it. Everything you need to know about how cranes are built.

Here at Kor-Pak, we focus on everything industrial. From supplying machine parts to aiding engineers who need to custom solutions for their industrial environment – allow us to help you with your manufacturing needs.

Feel free to contact us to request a quote or if you have any questions! We are here to help.

Overhead crane safety is of paramount importance. The statistics speak for themselves. For example, the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, reports that between 1992 and 2006, 632 deaths occurred because of crane accidents.

Although safety measures have improved over the last decade, the fact remains that health and safety standards in this arena need maintaining.

In light of this, we’ve compiled a mini guide to overhead crane safety. Hopefully, this will help minimize the likelihood of you and your employees experiencing any accidents on the construction site.

Complete a Safety Checklist Before Operating Cranes

If you don’t have a safety checklist in place, then we recommend drawing one up and completing it before operating a crane.

Here are a few things to include:

1. Check for any loose materials (packaging, parts, etc.) and remove them before operating the crane.
2. Always check the load’s maximum capacity weight and ensure the amount doesn’t exceed this limit. This information is usually marked on the outside of the crane, so it’s pretty easy to familiarize yourself with this.
3. Always remove visible slack from the hoist or sling before lifting.
4. Ensure the space between the equipment and the loading destination is clear of any hazards or dangerous components that could obstruct the lift.
5. If you’re working alongside colleagues, let them know when you’ll use the crane, what you’re moving and where you’re planning on using it.
6. If you’re helping to load the transfer, make sure you and your coworkers position yourselves so you can see the load without putting yourselves in harm’s way.

By executing these preliminary safety measures you drastically increase the likelihood of having an accident-free transfer.

Things to Avoid While Operating an Overhead Crane

We recommend always avoiding the following while operating an overhead crane:

• Never use a crane if the limit switches are either down or out of order.
• Never allow yourself to become distracted during the move. You should watch the load at all times; focus is of paramount importance.
• Never lift a load from a sideways angle. Always aim to center the weight before hoisting. This helps to reduce swinging during the transfer and makes the process safer and easier to control.
• Don’t under any circumstances allow people to ride on the load during the transfer.

Be sure to follow all of the above advice, stick to these pointers and hopefully you shouldn’t go too far wrong.

Was This Article on Overhead Crane Safety Useful?

If you found this article on overhead crane safety useful, then we’re confident you’ll love our blog. Over there we discuss everything from new crane parts to machine maintenance. Enjoy!

Or, if you have any questions about the content of this blog post, please feel free to reach out and contact us.

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After extensive studying and hands-on training, you’re now officially a crane operator. Congratulations! You’re entering a promising new career.

Here’s why.

Research shows that jobs for material moving machine operators, such as the operators of cranes, will grow by 6% between 2016 and 2026.

Of course, even after training, operating a crane can be intimidating. If you’re a new crane operator, here are some tips to prepare you for your brand-new career.

Let’s get started!

Your Crane Operator Environment

When it comes to operating a crane, safety is your number-one priority. Always.

Therefore, for starters, make sure that your job site can support your crane and future loads before you get set up.

Also, be cognizant of any overhead hazards present in the area where you’re working. Specifically, make sure that power lines and nearby buildings are not in the way within your operating zone.

Along the same lines, continually survey your surroundings to see if your job site’s conditions have changed. Even a slight change may require you to change how you operate your crane. These changes may have to do with personnel at the site or even weather conditions.

Also, just as with cars on the road, avoid using your cell phone while you’re operating a crane. It’s a dangerous distraction that has no place in your crane’s cab.

Your Planning

Before you turn your crane’s key, take time to review your equipment’s load chart. This chart essentially specifies how your crane’s lift capacity differs based on factors such as a certain angle and distance. By planning, you ascertain that you have enough capacity to complete your job.

Also, be flexible. Your plans could change from time to time. In fact, they probably will.

For instance, in some situations, you’ll have to stop and evaluate your lifting situation. If the situation calls for it, you’ll need to develop a safer lifting plan before proceeding with your job.

Your Equipment

One of the biggest mistakes you can make as a crane operator is to overload your crane. Overloading your crane may lead to serious problems, particularly if your machine’s line is strained. In the end, the line may break.

Also, make sure that you’re using the proper cribbing and pads. Otherwise, an outrigger may sink or fail while you’re trying to make a lift.

Finally, before you embark on a job, don’t overlook the basics of crane maintenance. For instance, check your machine’s fluid levels, including the oil and gas levels, to make sure that you are not low.

Also, regularly inspect your crane equipment. You just may end up spotting hydraulic, structural, electrical or mechanical issues that could spell significant problems down the road if not resolved right away.

How We Can Help

We offer high-quality services that every crane operator will need at some point, ranging from crane modernizations/upgrades to overhead crane inspections.

Get in touch with us to find out more about how we can ensure that your crane equipment is in tip-top shape this year.

Approximately 2.9 million non-fatal injuries and illnesses; that’s how many U.S. workers suffered from workplace health and safety problems in 2016. This number shows a decrease from previous years.

But three million is still a significant number. And unfortunately, it could’ve been lower through proper workplace safety policies.

This is especially true on job sites that use heavy equipment, such as cranes and hoists. Their incorrect use and maintenance have led to a yearly average of 71 fatalities.

This is why your facility should follow industry-standard overhead crane inspections. And this means complying with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards.

Compliance ensures your people remain safe. It also keeps your operations at top efficiency, while bringing down equipment risks.

Here’s what you need to know about OSHA-mandated inspections for overhead cranes.

The Governing Authorities on Safe Overhead Crane Use

OSHA isn’t the only governing body on safe overhead crane use. There’s also the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). The Crane Manufacturers Association of America (CMAA) also plays a part.

These three developed the standards for overhead crane inspections. They also created the best practice guidelines for maintaining these heavy machines.

As a plant manager, it’s your responsibility to ensure safe overhead crane use. And a big part of your task is to ensure the completion of all necessary inspections before their use.

Many industry standards are surrounding the use and maintenance of overhead cranes. One of these is meeting the required frequency of their inspection.

The Three Frequency Levels of Overhead Crane Inspections

A common mistake involving overhead crane inspections is carrying out a yearly inspection. Many think this is enough to comply with OSHA standards. This is a big mistake that can lead to serious injuries, even fatalities.

The truth is, there are levels to this frequency. And your organization should meet all of them. Failure to do so means non-compliance with the rigorous standards set by OSHA, ASME, and CMAA.

These three levels include initial, frequent, and periodic inspections.

Initial Inspection

Before you can use a new crane, it first needs to undergo an initial inspection. The same standard applies to repaired, modified, and reinstalled machines. Only an OEM-approved representative can perform the initial inspection of new equipment.

Frequent Inspection

How frequent these inspections depend on several factors. These include the specific applications and environmental conditions it’s used in. This means that you can conduct this visual and operational inspection on a daily or a monthly basis.

Periodic Inspections

These are the most time-consuming examinations. They involve comprehensive inspections of the entire machine. The goal is to examine and check all the parts that go into the crane to assess their structural integrity.

Again, the frequency depends on the same factors above. In general, though, they are often done quarterly, semi-annually, or annually.

According to Manufacturer’s Recommendations

Some overhead crane manufacturers have their own inspection provisions. You’ll typically find these instructions in the equipment’s usage manual. You need to follow these manufacturer’s recommendations too.

Your priority is to keep the workplace as safe and secure for every member of your organization. Ensuring everyone follows these industry standards is crucial to achieving this goal. We can help in making your overhead cranes (and their inspection) OSHA-compliant. Call us now to find out more about our services.

Cranes are a piece of construction equipment used in many different types of businesses. Safe crane operation requires many hours of specialized training. But technology is changing the crane training process.

Technology such as drones and simulators are quickly changing the crane operation industry. The United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires all crane operators in the United States to be certified. New technology ensures that your business will not only be saving a lot of time but also a lot of money.

Read on to learn about how new technology is increasing crane training performance.

Simulation Technology

A crane simulator is a piece of equipment that allows the user to simulate operating a crane in a controlled virtual environment. In this environment, operators can develop and train their crane operation skills and abilities.

Many companies have switched to using simulators for their employee’s crane training rather than the machine itself. The training has been useful in simulating real-life scenarios so that operators can be ready when working on site.

Some benefits of using a simulator include:

• Always available for training
• Increases productivity
• Customizable training
• Customizable testing
• Training logs
• Analyzed training records
• Standardization
• Reduces training costs

Drone Technology

Many businesses are also exploring drone technology to help with crane training. Drones are extremely helpful in giving the big picture. By flying a drone overhead, an operator can learn awareness of their environment.

A drone can show the route of the crane boom, and allow the operator to learn about how to maintain control of the boom. It also helps with learning about maintaining proper distances from various objects. These distances are sometimes difficult to judge from the ground level.

By using a drone to show what’s happening from a higher altitude, it is much easier to see how close the crane boom comes to various obstacles.

Not only can drones be used in the training process, but they can also be used in the actual work environment. Drones can be used to assist with crane inspections and maintenance. A drone can be flown at a high altitude, allowing them to help an inspector see the condition of the crane from above.

Drones can also be useful for checking the expected travel route for the crane lift. While the lift may have already been simulated, a drone can be flown in the expected travel path to double check there are no unanticipated obstacles.

Ready to Incorporate New Technology into your Crane Training?

Proper training is an important aspect of keeping your business efficient and your employees safe. 90% of crane injuries are due to human error. Keeping up with the new technology in the crane industry is a great way of increasing productivity and safety.

Both simulation and drone technology can help with crane training performance. While technology moves fast, it is important to take advantage of relevant technology when it helps your business.

Check us out for more information on new technology and equipment.

Crane parts, much like everything else, require maintenance, frequent inspections, and sometimes even replacement. Checking for damage is crucial to avoiding last-minute, emergency shopping for heavy industrial equipment.

We’re here to help the likes of

• purchasing agents needing to resupply clients
• engineers that want custom equipment
• dock workers that need new crane hoists

and much more!

When buying such expensive and fundamental gear, the only option is going to renowned companies with major clientele. The higher the quality, the less you’ll need to repair and replace, and the more money you’ll be making.

So how do you know it’s time for an exchange or update on your equipment? We’re here to offer a brief, in-depth guide that will help you answer that question.

Seven Signs Your Crane Parts Need Repairing

We’ve narrowed the list down to the seven most common signs. Each of these visual displays of wear and tear is a reason that you need to contact us:

1. Broken chain links
2. Worn-out pads
3. Rusty parts
4. Bent hooks
5. Dry ropes
6. Any cracked or loose parts
7. Worn brakes and/or clutch

No matter the size of damage, every issue can and should be repaired immediately to avoid more dangerous or expensive issues. The best way to catch problems early is to have every person operating cranes to go through a thorough, visual checklist before every use.

Although these problems are great indicators that your crane parts need replacing, they are not limited to just these seven.

Making sure that every operator is familiar with load capacity is another way to ensure that your parts get used as long as possible. To avoid replacing equipment before you need to, make sure every operator follows a strict weight procedure.

Luckily for you and your team, these issues are easy to spot. Although inspections should be done with a trained eye, it doesn’t take an expert to see that something is broken or rusted.

Don’t wait too long before checking your equipment. In fact, let’s talk about when the prime times for reviewing are.

When to Look for Repairs

The ANSI, or American National Standards Institute, outlines at least three different times when it is necessary to inspect your crane parts. Once again, the options are not just limited to this list:

1. Initial inspection – before any use
2. Frequent – daily to monthly
3. Periodic – one to twelve months, unless otherwise stated by manufacturer

Any inspections beyond these are encouraged! You don’t want to spend months on an expensive, time-consuming project only to have the business and your employees endangered by rusty or damaged equipment.

How to Proceed

Working with heavy industrial gear isn’t easy. We’re here to help you carry the weight (with or without a crane!).

Once you understand your crane parts need replacing, the rest is up to us. If you’ve checked out your equipment before it’s been damaged, that’s great. And if not, don’t stress – we’re not scared of emergency or special orders. We can help you find parts ranging from the common to the obsolete.

Don’t wait until your crane is kaput before fixing it! Give us a call now to avoid more costly and timely repairs.

Confused by the chaos of OSHA’s crane regulations? You’re not alone.

OSHA has moved the date for these regulations twice now, along with other changes. It’s a confusing time for employers left wondering what’s required of them.

We’ve put together this brief digest so you’ll know everything you need to know about OSHA’s overhead crane training requirements.

What Happened?

OSHA devised certification requirements for crane operators in 2010, as part of their Cranes and Derricks in Construction Standard. These requirements were aimed at ensuring crane operators were properly qualified to handle lifting equipment.

Originally, these requirements were set to go into effect in 2014. But there were a few kinks to work out, and OSHA moved the date to November 2017 instead.

Now OSHA has moved the date again, a day before the revised deadline. As of Nov 9, 2017, a final rule moved the date to Nov 10, 2018.

This new delay gives OSHA more time to revise the rules of the regulation. OSHA has also identified that a large number of employers still don’t meet requirements yet, so this gives them more to seek accreditation for their staff.

The move has attracted some criticism, particularly from employers who have already invested in staff accreditation. Critics note the health and safety implications of delaying the standards by another year.

What Does it Mean for Me?

For employers, it means some confusion.

OSHA’s requirements mean employers have to provide overhead crane training to any operators under their employ – or ensure they’re otherwise qualified, such as through military training.

Nov 10, 2017, was the original deadline for employers to meet these requirements. Plenty of employers have already taken steps to meet the standards. If you’re one of these, you won’t need to worry.

If you’re not, you can breathe easy knowing you have another year to meet them. And that’s if OSHA doesn’t delay the regulations further.

What’s Next?

Now it’s a waiting game. OSHA could announce another delay anytime before Nov 10, 2018. Or they could go ahead with the revised standards. There’s no real way to tell at present.

Either way, employers should take steps to meet the standards. Employers have a few main routes to employee certification, as follows:

• Training through an accredited third party
• An internal audited program
• Government-issued license meeting OSHA standards, such as a military qualification

OSHA will issue further updates as any changes to the deadline become apparent. In the meantime, you can read the exact text of the final note here.

Stay Current on Overhead Crane Training

The best move for businesses right now is to stay up-to-date on overhead crane training news. Keep an eye on the headlines for an idea of what you’ll need to do, and when. In the meantime, consider taking steps to meet the requirements in advance, so you’re not caught out when the regulations finally come into force.

Want to stay on top of industry news? Be sure to follow our blog.

When it comes to buying a new crane, you understandably want top quality.

The loads these systems are expected to bear can be significant, and investing in an inferior piece of equipment could mean slower — and riskier — operations.

To that end, Demag cranes are heralded worldwide for their craftsmanship, dependability, and durability. Whether you’re looking for a universal or specialized crane solution, you can’t go wrong by selecting this brand.

Today, we’re breaking down a few reason why this brand is tops, and why the industry agrees.

Ready to learn more? Let’s go!

1. There’s a Demag Crane to Fit Every Need

Their impressive product portfolio isn’t just limited to a handful of crane designs. Rather, you’ll have your pick from single-grinder overhead traveling cranes, double-grinders, suspension cranes, wall-mounted options and much more.

After browsing the wares, if you still aren’t seeing the exact tool you need, the company’s more than willing to help you customize a crane to fit your requirements and processes.

This means you’re not stuck improvising with an ill-fitted tool. Instead, you’re sure to get a valuable piece of equipment that can transform the way your company works.

2. You’re Investing in More Than Equipment

Sure, you can go out and buy a crane and use it within your facility. There’s no guarantee it will work in your environment or facilitate your workflow. Moreover, there’s also a major safety risk to installing or using it without proper support or training.

When you buy a Demag crane, you’re also receiving top-of-the-line end-to-end professional support. You will have access to a team of specialized experts who can walk you through every step to make sure you and your employees understand the total solution.

From initial design and preplanning to installation and maintenance, the staff takes the guesswork and the risk out of any DIY endeavor you’re considering. There’s also a spare parts inventory and on-call, around-the-clock customer service. That way, if your crane breaks down in the middle of the night, you could be back up and running before the sun comes up.

3. It’s a Forward-Facing Brand

Are you working with a worn and outdated crane? Simply replacing it with another one might not be in your budget at the moment. If this is the case, Demag offers refurbishment and modernization services that can help you update and outfit your existing crane to handle current and future load requirements.

In addition, the brand is consistently delivering new and innovative product launches that take its product line to a different level. If you’re looking for a crane solution that’s capable of supporting you well into the future, you can’t beat this brand.

We’ll Help You Invest in a New Crane Today

As an authorized Demag dealer, we know the brand inside and outside. We’re qualified to consult you on the best crane for your business needs and can help you narrow your selection down based on price point, usage requirement, size standards, and more.

Contact us. We’ll help you take this important first step toward securing the crane of your dreams.

About 72 fatal crane accidents happen each year.

It’s no secret that working with big machinery can be dangerous. That’s why safety is always a priority.

Preventive methods should be taken to ensure safety while using an overhead. Here’s an overhead crane maintenance checklist to follow.

When To Perform Overhead Crane Maintenance

While designated personnel should perform required maintenance and repairs, the crane operator should conduct daily inspections before and after each use.

According to OSHA, a safety check should be done at the beginning of each shift.

A well-trained and qualified crane operator should ensure all equipment is ready for use.

A daily inspection chart should be signed off each day by the operator to ensure the safety inspection is complete.

What The Checklist Includes

An overhead crane maintenance checklist includes three different checkouts:

1. Area Check

This check is to ensure the area around the crane is clear. Some of these activities include:

• Know the location of the crane disconnect switch.
• Make sure there are no warning signs present
• Check to make sure workers are not working near the area
• Look ahead to verify there is nothing around the area where the load will be moved.
• Check to make sure the below-the-hook devices are designed for the crane in use and will safely be able to lift the load.
• Make sure that the load capacity is equal to or less than the capacity of the crane.

2. Preliminary Check

Once the area check has been performed, the operator can begin the preliminary check of the equipment. This should be done before he or she touches any controls.

• Check the electric systems, bridge, runway, trolley, and hoist to make sure there are no loose, broken, or damaged parts.
• Make sure the wire rope is seated in the drums grooves properly.
• Ensure that the open power source is secure and there is nothing close.
• Check the strain reliefs or brushings to make sure that no wires are pulled.
• Make sure there is no damage to the pushbutton pendant.

3. Equipment Safety Check

After the preliminary check is complete, the crane operator must perform a safety check of the crane itself to make sure it is in working order. This is to ensure there is no potential for malfunction.

Several different categories need to be signed off when checking the equipment.

• Check all powered systems. Including, making sure the power button is not sticky, the hoist hook rises, and the upper limit switch is functioning properly.
• Make sure all hooks are in working condition. There should be no more than 10% wear on any part of the hook.
• Ensure there is no damage or cracks on the bottom block assembly. The sheaves should be able to rotate freely and smoothly.
• Make sure there are no broken wires on the wire rope and load chain. There should be no kinks, cuts, or thermal damage to any ropes or chains.

Safety Comes First

Taking the time to make sure the crane is in safe operating status will prevent accidents on the job site.

Remember, this is not a comprehensive safety checklist. For any questions or needs, you may have, feel free to contact us.

We’re here to make sure any project you have will be successful.

When it comes to using a crane for your industrial or construction business, you need to make crane inspection a regular part of your operation.

Getting your crane inspection is both a matter of functionality and workplace safety, making this a necessity.

You’ll need to learn the ins and outs of inspecting these cranes so that you’re in good hands with the maintenance of your equipment.

Let’s take a look at the facts.

An Overhead Crane Inspection Keeps You OSHA Certified

It’s important to realize that getting regular crane inspection is not just a luxury — it’s a necessity for your workplace safety.

You need to keep your workplace up to Occupational Safety And Health Administration (OSHA) standards. This way, you will avoid penalties that can get your workplace shut down or fined.

These inspections will help you make sure that your crane is able to handle a workload based on weight requirements. You should also have these professionals inspect the rigging, dock, and all other facets of the crane operation.

When you take OSHA inspections seriously, you’ll keep your site up and running without a problem.

Getting Your Crane Inspection Helps To Make The Appropriate Upgrades

The more frequently you get crane inspections, the easier it’ll be for you to know when it’s time for an upgrade.

Getting crane upgrades allows you to automate your crane service. Be sure that you repair the brake linings and installing brand new gears.

The inspection company will offer repairs and replacements for any crane parts that are faulty. An upgrade lets you get better performance from the crane for years to come.

An Inspection Gives Your Equipment Longevity

A crane inspection is worthwhile because it helps you avoid setbacks that cause your cranes to break down.

The longevity you get from your cranes is lengthened, which protects your entire workplace.

Your crane contractor will let you know when it’s time to make repairs like flame hardening the wheels and changing out fluids.

These inspection professionals will assist you in figuring out which repairs are necessary in order to help you get the most out of your crane service. You’ll be better able to catch problems like corrosion and wear, which a quality inspection will easily point out.

Hire Us For Your Crane Work Today

If you are in need of crane inspections and other repairs, we are the professionals that will get the job done correctly.

At Kor-pak, we’ll gladly take on your crane maintenance needs, in order to keep the equipment working properly. We’ve been in business helping people in your field for years and can keep your work site as safe as possible.

Check out our blog to learn more about crane service and other topics related to your field.

If you are interested in getting an inspection or a repair, reach out to us in order to learn more about how we can assist you.