One insurance provider reports that their most significant port insurance claims come from cranes. Whether costly repairs or devastating accidents, most of these claims have one thing in common: they were preventable.

A few simple maintenance principles are the key to avoiding disastrous issues. Combined, they ensure that problems are identified and resolved before they pose a severe threat.

Read on for three simple steps to ensure proper port crane maintenance.

1. Custom Maintenance Schedules

Port crane manufacturers will likely provide their clients with suggested maintenance schedules. These will cover which parts need to be replaced and when.

Responsible companies do their best to abide by these suggestions. But they are only provided as a general guide.

Each port crane uses various cargo loads at changeable frequencies differently. Therefore, a one-size-fits-all approach to maintenance routines isn’t the safest approach.

Evaluate your maintenance guidelines and what usage amounts they are designed for. Then, customize each crane’s maintenance schedule to whether it gets used more or less than the standard amount.

2. Take a Preventative Approach

Once you have devised tailor-made port crane maintenance schedules, monitor the results. When maintenance workers check on parts, are they on their last legs? For example, are brakes wearing too thin, or is grease running too dry?

This indicates that the maintenance schedule needs to be more frequent. In addition, maintenance schedules should operate with a preventative goal in mind. That is, maintenance should take place often enough that problems don’t even begin to develop.

Invest in keeping ahead of your maintenance needs. That way, you do everything possible to avoid unexpected expenses – and insurance claims.

3. Work With a Reliable Parts Provider

When a maintenance team identifies an issue, how quickly can they resolve it? That depends on who you choose to partner with.

To deliver the best service, the best port crane parts providers specialize in one or two areas, such as port crane brakes and accessories. They also deliver parts to their clients as quickly as possible. As a result, they provide the best quality parts and ensure you experience minimal downtime.

Finding Parts for Port Cranes

Whatever parts you need for your port cranes must be of the best quality. Only then will they keep your business safe and operational long-term.

As one of the world’s leading suppliers of ship-to-shore crane parts, Kor-Pak provides superior products and capabilities to Port and Marine Terminals and other businesses. To learn more about our products and services, talk to us today.

Port cranes rated to lift 40-80 metric tons move millions of containers each day. Maritime work is hazardous, and it’s estimated that the risk of fatal accidents is around 1 in 1000 for port crane operators. Outside the cranes at ports, other workers are moving around the docks, ships, and trucks doing their jobs while the cranes are in motion, also putting them at risk. 

Companies can minimize risks and mitigate accidents by following safety protocols. Crane operators, owners, inspectors, and maintenance technicians share this responsibility. 

In this brief guide, we’ll cover the top three areas of focus that will help improve overall safety regarding port cranes. This information saves lives and improves productivity. 

1. Adequate Training

Port crane operators are more effective and efficient when their training goes beyond the functions of running the crane.

They should have a basic understanding of the crane’s mechanics and the roles of the people working below. This will help the operator understand what is likely to happen in unexpected events. It increases their ability to react correctly and potentially avoid disasters. 

Crane operators also need to know the rules and limitations of OSHA’s Marine Terminal Material Handling Equipment regulations.

It’s helpful to have as many people as possible understand the regulations, so they will notice when something is wrong at marine terminals or with port crane equipment. 

2. Port Crane Zone Awareness

Safety awareness must extend to everything and everyone in the immediate area of the port cranes and the marine terminal. The operator should have good habits of checking the surroundings before moving into action. 

Workers on the docks and at the marine terminal should be aware of the cranes in motion at all times and be on the lookout for dangers. They should know emergency stop signals and also see where the signaler is. 

3. Equipment Failure Prevention

Many port crane incidents, such as the collapse of ship-to-shore cranes in India, were likely avoidable. However, the actual cost of these incidents is often people’s lives, which is of utmost importance. 

The downtime cost of mechanical problems and equipment failure affects the port crane team, the businesses involved, and consumers. In addition, it contributes to current global supply chain problems. 

Additionally, it’s easier (and less costly) to manage preventative measures than to deal with a breakdown or malfunction. Inspections extend the life of your equipment and create a safer work environment. 

Put Inspections to Work for You

Follow the above guide for effective port crane use, and be sure that your inspections are happening at the correct intervals. Consistent and thorough inspections are necessary for safe and effective port crane equipment. OSHA requires this for a good reason. 

Whatever your inspections reveal, Kor-Pak Corporation is here to help with everything you need for your port crane or other industrial, marine terminal equipment. Contact us for a quote on parts or services today.

The Port of Los Angeles handles around 200 million metric tons of cargo annually. More than 80 port cranes operate nearly continuously to offload freight from container ships. 

The port crane is the central and most important piece of equipment at any port of entry. But have you ever wondered what the different types of port cranes are? Read on to learn about shore cranes and other types of port cranes.

Gantry Crane

A gantry crane is a type of industrial crane frequently found along ports of entry. This crane is named for its most distinguishable part: the gantry. This is the overhead structure that holds the crane.

The gantry crane is sometimes called a portal crane because the frame looks like a portal. These cranes work in what is known as the straight-line route. This means machinery is used directly underneath the crane itself.  

There are two types of gantry cranes: high and low profile. They function the same way, although they appear different.

The low-profile crane typically has a fixed boom. The design is ideal for situations where the seaport is also near an airport. The lower profile makes flying overhead safer. 

A high-profile crane has a hinged boom that is also tall. This configuration is ideal for helping ships navigate ports when leaving the dock. 

Deck Crane

Deck cranes are offshore cranes that are typically mounted on the decks of ships. Their compact structure allows them to take up very little space when raising, loading, or unloading cargo. 

With little or no nearby infrastructure, deck cranes can easily work in small ports.

Overhead Cranes

An overhead crane is often used in factories for lifting heavy loads. It is also known as a suspended crane.

In addition to lifting enormous amounts of weight, overhead cranes are simple in design, consisting of hoists placed on trolleys that can traverse one or two beams. The crane operator is responsible for controlling this powerful machine. Construction sites and ports both use overhead cranes. 

Learn More Useful Port Crane Tips

The port crane is the central equipment for any port of entry. Without port cranes, freight could never leave the ships, and ports could not function. Due to the unique needs of ports worldwide, port operators rely on a wide range of port cranes to complete their essential logistical work.

Keeping crane operators fitted with the necessary equipment is part of our mission at Kor-Pak. To learn about our diverse portfolio of products, contact our team today.

Two of the most common reasons for crane-related workplace accidents are boom or cable failure and the worker getting struck by the crane load. Such accidents are often catastrophic. 

A custom crane transmission can help you prevent such accidents from happening. It can also benefit your company in other ways. Read on to learn more. 

1. Tailor the Crane to Your Specific Needs 

Most crane transmission brands only offer a few options for complete, pre-built transmissions. As a result, businesses may find that the resulting products only meet some of their operational needs. The best they can do is weigh the pros and cons and choose which parts meet as many of their needs as possible. 

The problem is that this can lower production rates because the workers have to work within the limits of the crane. If they try to push these limits to meet production demands (adding too much weight, etc.), their safety will be at risk. Also, a misused crane will likely break more often and need more maintenance. 

Custom cranes are the best way to ensure your crane meets production demands and is safe. This way, your crane will be able to meet more of your business’s needs. 

2. Replace an Outdated Crane Transmission 

In most cases, replacing parts of an old crane is much cheaper than buying a new one. However, you may need help finding parts that fit your old crane. 

You’re not guaranteed to find the right parts to upgrade your old crane. Still, you have a better chance of doing so by building a crane transmission piece rather than buying a complete set of parts at once. 

3. Take Advantage of Radio-Control Technologies 

Newer crane systems have technologies that can improve your production in several ways. Getting a new custom-built transmission and other parts can help you take advantage of these features.

One example of these technologies includes radio remote control systems. They can enhance your crane’s performance by improving safety and providing versatile action options. 

4. Take Advantage of Life-Extending Mechanics 

Another way new crane systems can improve your production is by extending your machines’ lifespans. Recent innovations in technology can improve how long and well your crane operates. 

Keep Your Heavy Industry Machines Efficient With Our Part Selections 

You’re not limited to an inefficient or unsuitable crane transmission. There are plenty of ways to get the exact parts your business needs. In addition, this should increase the production level of your facility. 

Consider our vast selection of parts and part options if you want to improve your current cranes and other heavy industry machinery. We can source a wide variety of existing parts, refurbish them, and even custom fabricate them if necessary. Contact us now to request a quote.

You rely on your cranes daily to get your jobs done and generate revenue. Research shows that unplanned equipment downtime costs an average of $260,000 an hour.

Inspecting your crane can help you spot problems early on. Here’s a rundown of why regular care inspections are so necessary.

Longer Equipment Life

A regular crane inspection can save you on crane-related costs in the long run. That’s because regular maintenance can help ensure that your crane remains pristine in the years ahead.

When you have your crane inspected and serviced as needed, this equipment will be more reliable when you need it the most. It will also last longer.

A fully operational crane will help you avoid the costly downtime that stems from parts failing and equipment breakdowns. After all, it takes longer to fix a broken crane than to get it inspected yearly.

And when you catch problems early in an inspection, you prevent more significant problems from cropping up later.

Employee Safety

Yet another reason to inspect your cranes regularly is that it helps keep your staff safe.

With a consistently inspected crane, the users of your crane are less likely to suffer job injuries due to malfunctioning equipment. Likewise, you prevent employees working around your cranes from being injured due to equipment failure.

The safer your employees are, the happier they will be, and the more likely they will stay with your company. In addition, fewer work-related injuries translate to lower costs for you.

OSHA Compliance

Finally, conducting regular crane inspections is a requirement of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, for various industries, including agriculture and petroleum.

If you neglect crane inspections, you will not comply with OSHA. Unfortunately, this may lead to a higher number of workplace accidents. In addition, it may lead to hefty fines that further chip away at your bottom line.

When OSHA fines you, this can also damage your reputation among your business partners and clients. And if you continue to operate without compliance with OSHA, they may eventually shut down your business.

A yearly inspection is an easy way to keep your cranes operating according to code and stay in business.

How We Can Help with Crane Inspections

With regular crane inspections, you can extend the life of your heavy equipment. In addition, you can have the peace of mind of knowing that your workers will be safer. And you can avoid OSHA fines as a result.

Fortunately, at Kor-Pak Corporation, we take pride in offering parts and services for cranes and other industrial equipment, like clutches and brakes. Get in touch with us to learn more about how we can keep your cranes running smoothly from one job to the next and for years to come.

Easily one of the most recognizable pieces of construction equipment is the crane. However, maintaining these complex machines takes careful attention and an eye toward crane wheel replacement. Keep these seven important topics in mind to keep your construction cranes in optimal shape.

1. Worn Crane Wheels Are a Safety Issue

OSHA sets guidelines for construction companies. These include requirements that all equipment be inspected and well-maintained. If your company is working on lowering its liability, ensure you designate timely construction crane wheel replacements as a top priority. 

2. Worn Crane Wheels Can Delay Construction Timelines

A blown or misaligned crane wheel can bring construction projects to a grinding halt. Since construction cranes are a vital part of any project, these delays could mean a timeline setback of days, if not weeks. 

3. Busted or Damaged Wheels Could Cause Failed Safety Inspections

Whether caused by a malfunctioning industrial brake system or general wear and tear, a damaged crane tire can cause your company to fail a safety inspection. A failed inspection could mean both fines and delays. 

4. Tire Problems Can Cause Distinct Sounds

We are all familiar with the sounds of worn brake pads. Misaligned or badly worn crane tires also make distinct sounds. Pay attention to those telltale sounds. An early diagnosis of the problem could mean a cheap and quick fix. 

5. Crane Wheels Are Not Interchangeable

When it does come time to replace your crane wheels, you should remember to pay close attention to the manufacturer’s specs. That will ensure that the wheels you purchase can withstand the conditions and loads they will experience daily. 

6. Prevent Premature Wear

Crane wheels wear out faster on older rail systems. A misaligned runway can also cause premature wear. You can prevent premature wear by ensuring your crane is regularly tested and inspected. 

You should address early signs of wear before the problems compound. Finally, ensure wheels were made for the specific rail they run on.

7. Routine Inspections Can Prevent Premature Tire Wear

Don’t wait for outside inspectors to tell you that your crane wheel requires replacement. Instead, make maintaining and inspecting your equipment a weekly routine. Better yet, have a daily checklist for essential things like checking the condition of your tires.

Learn More Tips About Crane Wheel Replacement

Crane wheel replacement is an unavoidable expense, but following the tips in this article can prevent premature wear. When it does come time to replace your crane’s tires, work with reputable Kor-Pak products.

Our OEM and aftermarket parts are ideal for passenger and freight cars. We offer a diverse portfolio of products. Let Kor-Pak help you strategically source parts for your rail company. Contact our team today.

The crane is a powerful piece of machinery for hoisting and moving materials. It can lift vertically and horizontally, making it useful in various scenarios.

Yet, for the crane to work effectively and safely, it’s essential to understand how a crane is set. This is because the crane parts work together not only to lift and move materials but also to keep the crane securely on the ground, too. 

Read on to learn a little more about the different crane parts and their role in the safe operation of a crane. 

Crane Mast

The crane mast is the part of the crane that acts like a tower lifting the other components into the air, so they have room to work. Therefore, this part is sometimes called a tower. 

The wire to handle the hook and pulley system used by the crane runs up through the tower. 

Climbing Frame

The climbing frame is a section built over the crane mast. It contains many of the components that allow the crane to operate. 

The climbing frame also allows the crane operator to get to the operator’s cab. 

Slewing Unit

The slewing unit is an integral part of the crane for movement. Most people understand that a crane can lift items vertically up and down. 

A crane can also lift and move objects from side to side. It can do this because of the slewing unit.

This part of the crane works to twist the crane, allowing it to turn 360 degrees around. 

Operator’s Cab

The operator’s cab houses all of the controls to operate the crane. The crane operator must go up to the operator’s cab, often high up, sitting on the hoist. 

A crane operator needs to have maximum visibility as they operate the crane. For this reason, the operator’s cab is often quite elevated on the machine. 

Machinery Arm and Jib

You can find the machinery arm on a traditional crane that holds a crane mast. The machinery arm keeps the materials away from the crane for safe movement. 

On a crane with a boom, you’ll often see a jib, similar in function to the machinery arm. The jib is a separate telescoping arm that projects from the crane’s boom, allowing it further reach so the crane doesn’t need to get moved. 

Concrete Counterweight

A crane couldn’t operate without the counterweight. It’s the part of the crane that counteracts the weight being lifted. 

When operating a crane, it’s critical to know the weight you’re lifting, so the appropriate amount of counterweight can be in place. 

This keeps the crane from tipping while it swings and moves heavy loads. 

Hook

The crane also couldn’t operate without a hook or a device like it. The hook gets used to connect the material being lifted with the crane. 

The hook holds onto the lifted material so the crane can move it. 

Know Crane Parts Before Operation

The crane is an essential part of a worksite and warehouse because it can do the heavy lifting to places you might not be able to get other equipment to. Understanding how the crane parts work together will allow you to use the crane effectively. 

If you’re operating a crane and need parts, we can help. Contact us today to discuss all your parts needs. 

The city of Boston is home to one of the largest container cranes in the country. The two 205-foot cranes are expected to come online sometime this year. Container cranes are an indispensable part of the shipping industry. 

Have you always wondered how a container crane works? Read on to learn how a crane for shipping containers lifts heavy loads and more. 

How Does a Container Crane Work

Although many of us are familiar with how freight by rail works, shipping is the leading means of transporting goods between countries. A container crane is a large hoisting device that lifts shipping containers.

The cranes primarily unload or load containers from a ship. Or they move containers around a shipping yard. Container cranes are a type of gantry crane. This means that they rely on an overhead beam.

Unlike moveable cranes that move agricultural goods and other products, a container crane is generally stationary. These are large, powerful machines that require extensive training to operate. 

Design Profiles

A container crane may feature several design profiles depending on where it will be used. For example, a full-gantry unit straddles a body of water. 

Full-gantry units lift containers from below the ship. A half-gantry unit is very common in U.S. ports and extends over a port’s edge.

Some designs use high-profile arms that swing out to move containers. 

The operating system varies widely. For example, some rely on a hydraulic lifting mechanism.

Others use a hybrid-electric system. Either may rely on an electric or diesel fuel generator.

Cab Operator

Container cranes could not operate without the skilled guidance of a cab operator. The operator typically sits in an operating cap positioned above the hoist. This gives the operator a clear view of the operations below. 

Most container cabs can traverse the length of the beam. This allows the operator to position the spreader. They can then lift the containers as needed.

A container crane operator must undergo certification and training to ensure they know how to operate cranes. Safety is always a top concern.

Operators are often tasked with looking for defects before each use. This typically means an inspection before each workday. 

Learn More About Construction Cranes

Each container crane is customized to meet the needs of each port. Whether using a full-gantry or half-gantry crane, the system for lifting and moving shipping containers is incredibly efficient and powerful.

Whether you need commercial drum breaks, calipers, clamps, or something else for your business, we’re here to help. Give us a call, and we’ll help you find a free quote on whatever product you are looking for.