Frequently Asked Questions About Overhead Cranes

General Questions

What is an overhead crane?

An overhead crane is a material handling equipment used to lift and move heavy loads within a workspace. It consists of a bridge, trolley, and hoist system.

What are the main components of an overhead crane?

The primary components include the bridge, trolley, hoist, end trucks, runways, and control systems.

What are the different types of overhead cranes?

Common types include top running overhead cranes, underhung cranes, gantry cranes, and jib cranes.

How does an overhead crane work?

The hoist lifts and lowers the load, the trolley moves the load horizontally along the bridge, and the bridge traverses the workspace.

Selection and Purchase

What types of cranes and lifting equipment are available?

A wide range of solutions is available, including bridge cranes, jib cranes, gantry cranes, monorail systems, and custom-engineered lifting equipment. Custom crane systems can be designed to meet specific operational needs and facility requirements, with expert consultation provided to help determine the right crane for your application.

What factors should I consider when selecting a crane?

Key factors include load capacity, span, lifting height, duty cycle, power supply, and workspace dimensions.

What support does AFE Crane provide during the crane purchasing process?

AFE Crane provides end-to-end solutions for all your material handling needs. We offer expert consultation to assess your application and recommend the ideal system, followed by complete design and engineering tailored to your requirements. Our in-house fabrication ensures high-quality construction, and our professional installation team guarantees a seamless setup. After the sale, we continue to support you with maintenance, inspections, and repair services to ensure your system operates safely and efficiently.

Operation and Maintenance

Do I need training to operate an overhead crane?

Yes, Operators must be trained and certified in crane operation, follow manufacturer guidelines, and adhere to OSHA and ASME safety standards.

How often should cranes be inspected?

Cranes should have daily pre-use checks, monthly inspections, and annual comprehensive inspections, as required by OSHA.

What is the typical lifespan of an overhead crane?

With proper maintenance, an overhead crane can last for decades. Usage, load frequency, and environmental conditions can affect its longevity, while upgrades or retrofits can help extend its service life.

How do I know if my crane needs repair or service?

Signs include unusual noises, jerky movements, visible damage, failed safety features, or reduced lifting performance. Regular inspections may also reveal misaligned components or overheating parts. Schedule a professional inspection if any of these issues occur.

Safety Questions

What are the common hazards associated with overhead cranes?

Common hazards include overloading, falling loads, electrical issues, collisions, and operator errors.

What safety features should an overhead crane have?

Essential features include overload protection, emergency stop buttons and hoist limit switches. Additional safety features, such as anti-collision devices, travel limit switches, load monitoring systems, & anti-sway technology can be added to enhance safety features of new & existing cranes.

How can I prevent crane accidents?

Perform daily inspections to ensure hoists, ropes, and controls are in good working condition. Always adhere to load limits and stay mindful of your surroundings to avoid obstacles and hazards during operation.

Additional Questions

Can an overhead crane be customized to meet my needs?

Yes, cranes customization may include load capacity, span length, lifting height, control systems, and specific environments like explosion-proof or outdoor use. Our team designs solutions tailored to your application.

Can AFE Crane retrofit my existing system with updated technology?

Yes, we offer retrofitting services to upgrade existing systems with modern components, controls, and features to improve efficiency and compliance.

What is the cost of an overhead crane?

The cost varies based on factors like crane type, load capacity, span length, lifting height, and custom features such as additional safety features. Prices range from $10,000 for basic systems to over $100,000 for larger or highly customized cranes. Contact us for a detailed quote.

What is the lead time for a custom crane system?

Lead times vary depending on the complexity of the system but typically range from 8 to 20 weeks. Contact us for a more accurate timeline based on your project.

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