Like other machines, cranes are only as good as the parts that make them up. This is important, not just for functionality but safety as well.
There are a lot of crane parts manufacturers and distributors out there. Knowing how to get components that will perform well and last for a long time can be hard. Buying substandard parts can cost you lots of money down the road.
Fortunately, there are a few qualities to look for. Once you know what they are, you can proceed with confidence. Keep reading to find out how to get the best parts for your crane equipment.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Crane Parts
One of the first things to consider is whether you should go with an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or aftermarket parts. As the name suggests, OEM parts are made by the same manufacturer that produced the original components. They are guaranteed to fit and perform as intended.
One drawback of OEM parts is that they are usually more expensive. Aftermarket parts, which a third party makes, can be a more economical alternative.
Note that aftermarket parts are not necessarily inferior in quality and function, though they could be. Researching the aftermarket manufacturer and determining whether this is the case is important.
Finally, remember that, in some situations, aftermarket parts may be superior in function. Some are designed to address deficits in OEM parts and improve crane performance.
Check for Quality Manufacturing Compliance Standards
Next, verify that the parts meet the highest quality standards. Check for certifications. Common ones include those from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) or the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).
Review the part’s specifications and tolerances, including things like load capacity. Inquire about testing and inspection processes.
Ask About Maintenance
Another thing to look at when choosing quality crane parts is the level of maintenance they require. Some components require meticulous upkeep, such as recalibration.
Maintenance takes time, and time is money. Along with the overall quality of the part, weigh crane maintenance needs. There may be alternative parts that demand minimal maintenance without diminishing performance.
Look for Warranties and Guarantees
Another way to ensure you are replacing crane parts with quality ones is to look for guarantees that the manufacturer or distributor offers. This alone can give you the confidence that the part maker or dealer will stand by its quality.
Also, ask about the level of after-sales support that is offered. This can go a long way toward ensuring that, should the component fail to work as intended, the company will make it right.
Find Quality Crane Parts Near You
Now that you know what to look for when selecting quality crane parts, you can proceed confidently. An experienced, reliable distributor can further advise you on choosing the best parts for your project or application.
Kor-Pak provides OEM and aftermarket crane parts to various industries, including agriculture, farming, railroad, oil, renewable energy, ports, and more. We use only the most reputable manufacturers of tower, mobile, gantry, crawler, and overhead crane system parts. Take a look at our online inventory, and feel free to reach out to us with any questions.