When there’s work to be done, an overhead crane does the heavy lifting. Bridge, gantry, monorail, and jib cranes all share something in common — a reliance on crane hoists.

Engineers, operators, and purchasing agents who work with crane equipment have probably heard of hoists. But what exactly are crane hoists, and what types of crane hoists are there?

What Does a Crane Hoist Do?

A hoist is easily the most critical part of an overhead crane. While steel beams and other structures provide stability to cranes, the hoist is the only part that performs the lowering and lifting of loads. 

There are two main parts to hoists: the power source and the lifting medium. The power source options include pressurized air or electric power.

Hand-powered hoists can lift lighter loads. The lifting medium is typically a chain or wire.

Chain Hoists

Chain hoists rely on metal chains to lift loads. The chain often runs through sprockets. As a result, many crane operators consider chain hoists to be relatively low-maintenance and more cost-effective than wire ropes.

Benefits of using a chain-based hoist include:

• The option of adjusting the height by changing the chain
• A more compact size that doesn’t require a drum
• Durability
• Portability
• Capacity (up to several tons of lifting power)

Chain hoists are more limited on lifting speed than wire hoists, and they may not be reliable at heights greater than 20 feet. Still, many crane operators consider chain ropes an economical and reliable lifting mechanism for many jobs. 

Wire Hoist

As the name suggests, wire hoists rely on steel wires to lift loads. Operators release the wire from a grooved drum. The hoists can be powered pneumatically, electrically, or manually. 

Wire hoists have several advantages over chain alternatives. Wires allow loads to be lifted more quickly. Other advantages include:

• The ability to lift loads to higher heights than chain hoists
• Severe duty classification options (class D, E, and F)
• Smooth and quieter operations
• The ability to lift 10 tons and above 

For heavy jobs, a wire hoist will lift heavier jobs to greater heights than chain hoists. Wire hoists require more space than most chain hoists, though the wire options are generally more expensive to buy. Crane maintenance is often similarly more costly. 

Which Option Is Right for Me?

A chain hoist is cost-effective and highly durable. If your company plans on taking projects that require higher and heavier lifting, an investment in a wire hoist may save you from having to upgrade your crane system. To view all our crane-related products, visit our product page. 

Hoist Suspension Systems

Both chain and wire hoists can be mounted in several ways. A hook-mounted system uses a hook that is built into the top of a hoist. An operator attaches the hook to the top of a crane system.

A lug-mounted system can glide using rollers. Trolly-mounted systems use a motorized engine to move the hoist latterly slowly. 

Upgrade Your Overhead Crane Hoist Today

Picking the right crane hoist for your lifting needs is one of the most critical decisions overhead crane operators and engineers can make. 

We’ll help you find what you need at a competitive price. So contact us today to let one of our experts equip you with a suitable hoist for your job. 

When a facility needs to move heavy equipment and supplies to other areas, workers may use overhead cranes. Overhead cranes allow loads to move across the space through the air instead of along the floor. These cranes are used along with other materials handling equipment for more efficient processes.

Since this equipment goes through daily use, workers should engage in crane maintenance to ensure equipment runs optimally and that any worn or damaged components are serviced at the right time.

Crane Maintenance Procedures

Maintenance procedures should align with the manufacturer’s crane maintenance and repair recommendations. There are many overhead cranes in use, along with different types of load lift attachments. Using the manufacturer’s directions makes it easier to design a preventive maintenance program for that specific crane so that no components are overlooked.

In addition, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides maintenance requirements for overhead cranes and gantries. Here are some basic procedures for servicing cranes.

Inspection

Before performing maintenance, staff should inspect all aspects of the crane to identify any warning signs of damage or excessive wear and tear. Types of inspections you may perform include an area evaluation, preliminary equipment check, and daily equipment safety check. The daily equipment safety check should focus on the bottom block assembly, all electrical and power systems, the brake systems, and all miscellaneous items.

Hook Maintenance

Hook maintenance involves replacing hooks with wide openings from the standard 15% nominal opening. You should also replace hooks with permanent deformations or section wear that reaches a 10% height.

Pulley Maintenance

Pulleys with a 10% wall thickness for sheaves or rope wear that’s 25% of its diameter at the bottom should be replaced. Rims that are cracked or damaged should be replaced as well. Check the pulley to see if its rotation is flexible and doesn’t jam.

Brake Maintenance

The brakes, brake drum, and wire rope should be inspected carefully. The pin should not have more wear than 5% of its diameter. Also, the side wheel and brake shoe should have a gap that is equal to each other.

When evaluating the brake drum, ensure that the surface temperature does not exceed 200 degrees Celsius and that the groove surface area should be around 60% with a depth of 3mm. In addition, the wire rope should have no broken strands as the rope along the drum should be tightened.

Reducer Maintenance

Check the reducer for any leaks while looking for any loose screws along with the feet, bolts, and joints. In addition, you will want to inspect the wear of the teeth on the reducer, as the wear should not be more than 15% along with the crane housing mechanism.

Additional Maintenance

Additional servicing may focus on lubricating all lubrication points, replacing failed safety devices, and motor replacement. You may also need to replace any pins or screws that are badly worn, and check the reel for damage.

Keep in mind that maintenance standards exist for other types of cranes. For example, OSHA also has requirements for crawler locomotive and truck cranes. So you need to develop a preventive maintenance program that reflects the components present in your crane that will require a constant inspection on a daily or periodic basis. For more information about crane maintenance, contact Kor-Pak.

On any job site, safety must always be the most critical consideration. Statistics show that for 2019, more than 5,000 workers died while doing their jobs. 20% of these fatalities were in the construction sector, highlighting the need for regular on-site equipment inspection.

Cranes are an essential piece of equipment on any construction or manufacturing site. Therefore, site workers must follow safety guidelines and regulations correctly. This includes scheduling both frequent and periodic inspections.

In this blog post, we will highlight the when, why, and how of crane inspections. So read on!

Requirements for Crane Inspections

As per the 1910.179 standard from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, ASME B30.2, and State Regulations, several requirements for carrying our satisfactory crane inspections are required.

A routine crane safety inspection schedule for cranes is essential to enhance workplace safety. Therefore, before the initial use of a crane, a full inspection is a must.

Only qualified OSHA inspectors are authorized to perform crane inspections. There are two types of inspections with regards to cranes: frequent inspections and periodic inspections.

At Kor-Pak, we offer a comprehensive array of Overhead Crane Services, including thorough inspections. On completion of inspections, a full written report is provided listing all deficiencies and recommendations.

What You Should Inspect Frequently

There is a range of inspections that should take place regularly, for example, weekly or monthly.

These include:

• Cracked or deformed hooks
• Maladjustments that interfere with normal operations
• Leakage in hydraulic systems, pumps, valves, etc.
• Defective hoist chains
• Wire rope reeving system issues

At Kor-Pak, we provide repairs, modernizations, upgrades, training, and 24/7 support. We also prove a complete line of cranes and hoists for various industrial applications.

What You Should Inspect Periodically

Periodic inspections should occur at least several times a year. At each inspection, it’s essential to check on the following parts:

• Loose rivets or bearings
• Worn tires
• Unsafe power plants
• Brake and clutch system issues
• Wear to chain drive sprockets
• Overstretch of chains
• Electrical apparatus issues
• Inaccuracy in indicators

To ensure the proper maintenance of your crane, both frequent and periodic inspections should be scheduled into your calendar well in advance.

Your crane equipment’s age and current condition will also play a part in determining how frequently you should carry out inspections.

Schedule Regular Crane Inspections

Cranes are responsible for various jobs within the construction and manufacturing industries. They are beneficial for lifting heavy loads.

As with any other type of equipment, cranes can experience wear and tear over time. The above crane inspection checklist includes essential features of a crane that a qualified OSHA inspector should inspect.

Kor-Pak is your No. 1 team to contact if you seek quality crane inspections that meet all OSHA 1910.179, ASME B30.2, and State Regulations.

We help to ensure the smooth running of your business’s most essential equipment. 

The global crane market reached $33 billion in 2020.

Cranes play an essential role in many industries. We rely on them as primary and crucial pieces of machinery. Cranes are vital for lifting, lowering, moving, and rotating objects. 

So what does the future look like for the crane industry? Can you count on the availability of these valuable tools?

Here’s what we might expect from the crane industry over the next few years.

Crane Market Overview

Although the crane market experienced a decline due to the impact of COVID-19, it’s regaining momentum in 2021.

Many sectors such as construction and manufacturing are resuming activities. The post-pandemic crane industry will soon experience significant growth for two main reasons.

Reduced human interaction during the global pandemic sparked technological advances. As a result, new tools such as automated machinery will foster growth in the crane market.

Also, rental services have grown as stalled companies focused on maintenance. In addition, rental companies are increasing their offerings to include premium machinery, driving demand up.

Market Segments

When analyzing the global crane market, it is essential to understand how the market is segmented. In addition, understanding these categories can help you determine where there is growth potential.

The following criteria generally break up reports:

Type

The crane market industry consists of various crane types. These types include mobile cranes, fixed cranes, and marine/offshore cranes.

These categories contain subcategories.

• Mobile cranes – all-terrain, crawler, rough terrain, and truck-mounted cranes
• Fixed cranes – monorail and overhead cranes, among others
• Marine and offshore cranes – mobile or fixed types

Region

Geography also divides the crane market. 

The North American region contains the United States, Canada, and the rest of the continent. Europe consists of Germany, the United Kingdom, and France, among others.

Asia-Pacific has many heavy hitters, including China, India, Japan, and other countries.

Application

Another crane market segment is end-use. Application types include construction, mining, industrial, oil and gas, and others.

Key Market Trends

There are several notable crane market trends to be aware of in each of the market categories. 

Research expects the all-terrain crane will soon dominate the global crane market. These cranes are becoming popular due to their high-performance capabilities in adverse conditions.

The Asia-Pacific region will likely become the fastest-growing region. Increasing planned infrastructure projects in China and India will fuel these advances. 

Growth in the mining industry in the U.S. will also play a key role in crane market growth. As a result, key players in the industry are diversifying their offerings to gain a competitive advantage.

Each of these trends, and others, will support the rise in the crane market outlook. Reports suggest that the crane market will reach $45-48 billion by 2026.

Rise Above With a Leader in the Crane Market

Now is the time to invest in the growing crane market. Whether you need to buy a new crane or perform predictive maintenance, Kor-Pak has the right solution for your needs. 

Trust your cranes to be the leader of the pack. Contact us today. 

Overhead cranes allow companies to move materials from one location to another with the items suspended in the air. It is commonly used in warehousing and transportation, yet these cranes are also found in mining processing, agricultural manufacturing, and many other industries. Ensuring that your overhead crane functions optimally means that the working mechanisms and supports have undergone proper maintenance and repair. Overhead crane inspections are another essential aspect of properly maintaining your equipment. Find out why you should get your overhead crane inspected.

Reasons to Perform Overhead Crane Inspections

1. Spot Cracks, Deterioration, and Failures

Inspections allow you to spot potential problems before they become serious issues. Overhead cranes work with many moving parts at once. Any part that experiences failure could lead to the entire crane malfunctioning to the point where it can no longer perform tasks. Certain overhead crane features should undergo daily maintenance, such as the hydraulic systems and crane hooks. Other areas can have monthly inspections such as hoist chains, ropes, and end connections. Some inspections may be performed on an as-needed basis.

2. Avoid Costly Part Replacements

Spotting minor problems and immediately placing the overhead crane into service ensures that all components function appropriately. However, holding off on the inspections and required repairs could lead to catastrophic failure to the crane’s systems. When devastating failure occurs, it may lead to replacing entire systems. The cost of replacing systems can be an enormous burden on the company’s finances.

3. Helps to Create Preventive Maintenance Checklist

An inspection provides you with essential details about your overhead crane and how it is used. The inspector may notice specific components and parts that are worn out faster than the manufacturer’s recommendations during the inspection. With this data, you may adjust the preventive maintenance checklist to evaluate these systems and components on a more daily schedule to prevent significant problems.

4. Meet OSHA Requirements

Overhead crane and gantry operations are regulated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). If the cranes are not inspected and maintained following these guidelines and standards, accidents may cause serious damage and worker injuries. OSHA regulators may penalize a company that has not performed the required inspections and instituted safety measures in compliance with stated guidelines. These fines could be costly for your company,

5. Prevent Worker Injuries

Having a worker become injured due to materials falling from the overhead crane causes significant problems to your company. You must ensure that the working environment is cordoned off to prevent further damage and injuries. Then you have to deal with the worker’s medical bills, worker compensation claims, or even lawsuits. Your operations will also have to remain down until the evaluation of the overhead crane is complete, and they determine why there was a failure. Then you must make repairs before operations begin again.

An overhead crane experiences large stress loads daily. Ensuring that the equipment functions efficiently is essential so that operations keep up with productivity. An overhead crane inspection provides many advantages to your company to keep equipment running and keep repair costs low.

We can help with your industrial equipment needs. Contact us with product and service inquiries.

Overhead crane conductor bars are crucial structures that enable consistent power flow to internal and auxiliary crane functions. Conductor bars are precisely engineered to maximize safety and rates of power delivery.

The diverse operational applications of cranes mean power systems need to be versatile. A capacity for broad adaptation ensures the equipment can account for many different project variables. Therefore, conducting system options are designed with durability, mounting variability, heat dissipation, insulation, and ease of installation held at high priority.

Crane Conductor Bars

Crane conductor bars are constituted by a multi-part system working in unison.

A summary of conductor bar elements:

• Conductor Bar
• Collector
• Hangers
• Brackets
• Anchor Clamp
• End Cover
• Power Feed

The primary conductor bar supplies and guides power along the crane bridge. A collector unit processes the delivered current and feeds it into the various crane machines. Hangers connect a series of supportive brackets along the runway to the conductor bar itself. An anchor clamp may be implemented to modulate conductor movement during thermal expansions or contractions. The end of the conductor bar is capped by an end cover to provide safety and a cut-off to the flow of electrical current.

Conductors are built for efficiency, ease of installation, and longevity. In addition, they’re compatible with a large variety of subparts (such as brackets and hangers) – enabling simple, efficient maintenance.

A primary advantage to conductor bars is their viability in multi-bridge runway systems. In addition, conductor bars may be adjusted to suit indoor and outdoor cranes and perfectly accommodate low ceiling environments with limited dropdown power cable spacing.

Because of their versatility, conductor bars are ideal for regularly upgraded systems or in retrofitting legacy operations. Power continuity between existing and new interlocking elements can be trivialized by introducing an appropriate conductor unit. In addition, the straightforward installation allows runways to be extended without excessive logistical challenges related to power supplies – cutting project lead times.

Related Overhead Crane Systems & Components

Industrial overhead cranes can be equipped with a wide variety of accessories and modifications. Implements include:

• Bare and insulated conductor bars. Bare options provide significant cost reductions in large-scale applications, whereas insulation increases operative efficiency and safety.
• Spring and motorized cables/hose reels. Cable reels are intended to deliver power to the various industrial elements on a crane. Spring designs enable high power extension and retraction of the reel.
• Festoon systems. Mobile supports for power cables that allow smooth, dynamic movement with trolleys or hoists.
• Slip ring assemblies. Facilitates sensor interactivity and transfer of electric current from stationary to rotating / mobile elements.

Additionally, highly tuned optical positioning systems (OPS) may be employed to provide real-time feedback on machinery spacing, movement, and relative component locations. Positional awareness is a valuable tool for autonomous material management and programmed crane operation. OPS elements can be custom configured to new and existing overhead crane operations.

Kor-Pak Overhead Crane Services

Kor-Pak is home to a large team of equipment specialists that can provide the right solutions for your crane operation. Reach out to inquire about service options and consultation.

Overhead cranes allow materials to be moved through the air. It frees the ground area for workers as they stay productive. Overhead cranes also move heavy loads onto specific conveyances, such as rail cars, and to production processes.

An important part of the overhead crane is the crane wheels. Crane wheels are part of the traveling system to move materials to different locations in facilities. Without them, the crane cannot function to move the materials. Due to the daily work that these parts go through, in time they need to be replaced. There are several signs to look for that may tell you when to replace your crane wheels.

Misalignment

The overhead crane may become misaligned on the tracks. Even with only a slight misalignment, this problem leads to the crane placing unnecessary heavy load stresses on certain parts of the system that are not used to carrying such stress. The misalignment may be due to broken wheel flanges or cracked wheel flanges. Wheel bearings or rails that have worn down prematurely may also indicate a misalignment.

In certain circumstances, the wheels will disengage from the rail and rise up before crashing back down. Even when getting the overhead crane realigned, you may have to replace the wheels after experiencing such hard crashes that could have caused damage to the bearings or wheels themselves.

Overcapacity

Workers want to get loads moved as quickly and safely as possible. However, they should only have the overhead crane move materials that fall within the capacity and service range of the machine. Placing on heavier loads leads to extra stress on the wheels and the truck when it moves along the rail This stress causes the wheels to fail due to excessive wear.

Excessive Damage

A sign that may indicate the wheels need to be replaced is excessive wearing on the wheels. While normal wearing is expected, there are times when the wheels, bearings, and flanges may wear down prematurely. The problem may occur due to overcapacity. Another issue causing wear impacts custom overhead cranes where the wheels are made from softer materials than required for the application.

Understanding the types of materials that will be moved will allow you to pick a material for the wheels that can withstand large stresses. Just keep in mind that the hardness of the wheel’s material should match that of the rails. If the rails are made from softer materials, they may experience damage from the harder wheels.

Loud Scraping

Running the crane for long periods of time may cause the wheels to begin to wear out. If the crane exhibits loud scraping noises when in operation while moving along the rail, it could indicate that there is a broken or a cracked wheel. All noises that are not part of the overhead crane’s normally operating system should be investigated and replaced immediately.

Keeping the overhead crane running efficiently means inspecting the wheels, wheel bearings, and wheel flanges for excessive wear, breakage, or cracks. If you are in need of specialty crane parts, turn to Kor-Pak. Contact us today to learn more.

Does your line of work use an overhead crane? Overhead cranes tend to be a great benefit for industrial warehouses, and there’s a good chance that if you own a warehouse, your crane is nothing short of a necessity for your business.

That said, you want to make sure your overhead crane stays in top condition for a long time to come. As durable as these machines are made, it’s always a smart idea to commit to a regular overhead crane inspection to keep it running at its best.

Read on to learn the benefits of maintaining your overhead crane.

1. Overhead Crane Maintenance Helps Avoid Mechanical Failure

Perhaps the most important and apparent reason to conduct maintenance on your overhead crane is to avoid mechanical failure. Mechanical failure can result in many problems, from your crane not working (and your business losing money) to serious injury to your employees.

Ongoing maintenance helps you to avoid this and makes sure your business keeps running.

2. Invest in the Latest Products

Even the most advanced overhead cranes are bound to fall behind on the times. New parts are constantly being created that make the crane easier, safer, and better. However, without proper maintenance, you’ll eventually work with outdated parts that could cause your crane to falter or malfunction.

Ensure to conduct your inspection so you can continue to use the latest products and have your business running at maximum efficiency.

3. Stay Compliant With Industry Standards

It’s wise to remain in good standing with the latest standards. These standards are put in place to ensure your business and your employees are safe and potential damage is kept to a minimum.

Staying up to date with the industry standards is as easy as getting a routine inspection. The inspectors will check your overhead crane and make sure everything is in top condition and follows the official guidelines.

Overhead Crane Inspection

There are many reasons to have a regular overhead crane inspection since it’s crucial to your success. The next step is figuring out where to go to get your inspection.

Kor-Pak Corporation offers overhead crane inspection and industrial products to ensure your business has everything it needs to grow and thrive.

Take a look around our site to learn more about what we have to offer, or reach out to us for your next inspection. Let’s help your business to succeed!

Crane service is essential to keeping your equipment in good condition. It’s also critical in ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

297 crane-related deaths were reported from 2011 to 2017, with over half resulting from the worker being struck by equipment. Without regular crane maintenance, owners risk the safety of their workers, heavy fines, and their ability to operate their business at full capacity.

In this article, we discuss what to expect when it comes to crane servicing. Continue reading to learn how to service your crane to ensure everything is in order with your crane. 

Crane Inspections

Customers often ask, ‘how often should you service your crane?’ However, OSHA regulations dictate that crane inspections are necessary to identify any need for repairs at least once every 12 months. For this reason, it’s recommended that you time your inspections with crane maintenance.

Crane servicing begins with a visual inspection of all components of the crane. Next, the condition and functionality of essential parts and safety features are reviewed. 

After the inspection part of servicing your crane, you receive a detailed report highlighting any needed repairs. It’s also common to receive a quote for the repairs that include the cost of parts and labor. To reduce the number of repairs required, consider having your crane inspected on a more frequent basis if it’s used regularly. 

Routine Maintenance and Repairs

Part of knowing how to service your crane is understanding the importance of routine maintenance. Crane servicing involves necessary routine maintenance to ensure it’s running as it should. For example, you can keep the mechanical components in good condition by making necessary adjustments and applying lubrication.

While servicing your crane, you can also complete the necessary repairs and upgrades. In addition, you can extend the life of your crane by upgrading some of your mechanical components.

Improved parts such as updated gears and bearings can make your equipment run smoother. These updates can also help ensure compliance with safety standards. 

Ensure Functionality

Once repairs and maintenance are complete, it’s important to take the time to reassemble all parts carefully. Also, ensure everything is working as it should. This part of the crane service helps avoid common hazards relating to malfunctioning equipment and provides control measures. 

Again, take the time to make sure everything is working as it should after crane maintenance. However, the entire process should be as quick and efficient as possible. This helps cut any production delays and financial strain.  

Ensure Compliance

The goal with crane service is to keep you compliant. This is why part of servicing your crane is focused on ensuring operation within safety guidelines. 

A fully functional crane and the necessary upgrades offer you peace of mind. You can operate with confidence, knowing that your crane is fully compliant and legal. 

Stay Compliant with Annual Crane Service

Now that you know what to expect of crane service and how to service your crane, you can focus on pursuing the process. Servicing your crane regularly keeps you compliant, keeps your workers safe, and helps avoid costly breakdowns. Plus, it’s easier to perform routine crane maintenance than costly repairs. 

Get your service on the schedule by contacting us today. 

Are you having problems with your crane?

In the construction business, maintaining your equipment is always a top priority. It ensures adherence to safety regulations within your facility. One piece of equipment that plays a crucial role in industrial jobs is cranes.

Cranes serve as large equipment that carries a large quantity of material at a time. It needs inspections every 12 months. However, you must be vigilant for signs of equipment repair.

Ensuring that your crane works efficiently is the key to productivity and safety. By tackling these issues, you can avoid accidents and higher costs in the future.

Here are five signs of damages and when to call for an equipment repair immediately. Read on and learn more:

1. Corrosion on Equipment

Rust is notorious for damaging all kinds of equipment quickly. It’s one of the indicators that a crane needs new parts. 

Rusting always begins with the appearance of unusual small spots. A lot of employees overlook these spots as they look harmless. However, if left untreated, it can turn into an expensive problem to handle. 

For a crane, it deteriorates joints, screws, and bearings, affecting the load capacity. A corroded screw or bolt could play a factor for one of your staff members to get a serious injury.

2. Excessive Wearing

Cracks and wearing play a big role in a broken crane. It’s because of the stress due to the daily load they carry. An example of worn material is the bumper.

A worn bumper becomes more difficult to control and doesn’t stop even if you hit the brakes. It can later lead to safety risks and impact your crane or hoist’s performance. 

3. Leaking and Blistering Cords

A lot of cranes have a variety of hydraulic or pressurized hoses. They serve as support to reduce unneeded movement.

Inspect your hose for indications of leaks. Check the outer hose covering for blistering or deformation. These blisters indicate that something is clogging the hose, causing unusual sounds.

Failure to remedy this problem immediately can lead to water contamination. For any sight of leaks or blisters, call crane repair services immediately.

4. Warped Hooks

The hook bears the enormous stress of load during its daily operation. It makes them prone to bending, later leading to problems in carrying the future load. During crane inspection, if the hook warps out of its original shape, it’s best to replace it.

5. Crushed Link Cables

Crushed link cables are common crane equipment repair signs. If left unchecked, it causes the cable to snap, resulting in unwanted consequences. Fortunately, you can fix it immediately before continuing work.

Know These Crane Equipment Repair Signs Today

Don’t wait for a serious accident to happen in your work facility. Invest in crane equipment repair and ensure safety.

Are you having another kind of equipment repair problem? Contact us today, and we’ll see how we can help.