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Process Crane

A process bridge crane is a highly specialized overhead lifting system designed for continuous, high-efficiency material handling in demanding industrial environments. Unlike standard bridge cranes, process cranes are engineered for specific applications where precision, durability, and automation are critical.

A process bridge crane is a highly specialized overhead lifting system designed for continuous, high-efficiency material handling in demanding industrial environments. Unlike standard bridge cranes, process cranes are engineered for specific applications where precision, durability, and automation are critical.

Process cranes are custom-engineered to match the specific operational needs of each facility, often incorporating automation to streamline workflow and minimize manual labor. Factors such as load capacity, span, lifting speed, and environmental conditions guide the design process. These systems frequently include automated controls, variable frequency drives, condition monitoring, and redundant safety features to maximize uptime and ensure consistent performance. Common applications include steel production, automotive manufacturing, paper mills, and warehousing, where cranes are required to execute repetitive and precise lifting tasks. With specialized attachments and tailored programming, AFE Crane delivers high-duty cycle process cranes that enhance productivity in even the most demanding industrial environments.

Purpose-Built for Precision and Efficiency

Process cranes are custom-engineered to match the specific operational needs of each facility, often incorporating automation to streamline workflow and minimize manual labor. Factors such as load capacity, span, lifting speed, and environmental conditions guide the design process. These systems frequently include automated controls, variable frequency drives, condition monitoring, and redundant safety features to maximize uptime and ensure consistent performance. Common applications include steel production, automotive manufacturing, paper mills, and warehousing, where cranes are required to execute repetitive and precise lifting tasks. With specialized attachments and tailored programming, AFE Crane delivers high-duty cycle process cranes that enhance productivity in even the most demanding industrial environments.

Features

Main Components
  1. Bridge: The horizontal beam that spans the workspace. Its design and strength are tailored to the load and span requirements of the process.
  2. Trolley: The unit that moves along the bridge, carrying the hoist and lifting mechanism. Its speed and positioning accuracy are crucial in process applications.
  3. Hoist: The lifting unit, often electric-powered, responsible for raising and lowering the load. The hoist’s capacity, lift speed, and control are dependent on the process.
  4. End Trucks: The assemblies at the ends of the bridge that house the wheels and drive the crane along the runway.
  5. Runway: The tracks on which the trucks travel.
  6. Control System: This is a critical component of a process crane. It includes the operator controls (often remote or pendant), the PLC or computer control system, and the interfaces to other process equipment.
  7. Lifting Devices: Specialized tools designed for the specific materials being handled in the process. These are highly customized.
  8. Safety Systems: Essential safety features, including overload protection, collision avoidance systems, and emergency stops, are even more critical in automated process cranes.
Applications
  1. Heavy Industrial
    Moving large components through assembly lines, handling heavy parts, and supporting robotic welding or painting operations.
  2. Steel Mills
    Handling slabs, billets, and coils of steel, often in high-temperature environments.
  3. Aerospace
    Moving large aircraft components, supporting assembly operations, and handling delicate parts.
  4. Manufacturing
    Any process that requires the precise and automated movement of materials or workpieces between workstations or processing stages.
  5. Paper Mills
    Transporting large paper rolls, assisting in maintenance, and handling heavy machinery components.
  6. Warehousing and Distribution (Automated Systems)
    Integrating cranes with automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) for efficient handling of goods.
3D View

Customization Options for Process Cranes

Process cranes are highly adaptable and can be customized to meet the specific requirements of various industries. From specialized lifting attachments to advanced automation, these modifications enhance efficiency, safety, and precision. Customization ensures that the crane seamlessly integrates into existing workflows while maximizing performance and reliability.

Lifting Attachments

Custom grabs, magnets, tongs, vacuum lifters, and C-hooks designed for specific materials.

Hoist Configurations

Single or dual hoists, synchronized lifting, and precision positioning for complex operations.

Automation & Controls

Programmable logic controllers (PLCs), variable frequency drives (VFDs), and remote operation capabilities.

Safety Features

Overload protection, collision avoidance systems, redundant braking mechanisms, and operator-assist technology.

Environmental Protection

Heat shielding, corrosion-resistant coatings, explosion-proof designs, and weatherproof enclosures for harsh environments.

Specialized Motion Control

Anti-sway technology, adaptive speed control, and automated load positioning for high-precision applications.

Heavy-Duty Components

Reinforced structures, high-performance bearings, and wear-resistant materials for demanding applications.

If you don’t see the customization you’re looking for, AFE Crane can design a solution to fit your specific needs. Contact us to discuss your requirements.

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Vendor Specifications

Each Process Crane System designed by AFE Crane is custom-engineered to meet the specific requirements of your application. Due to this level of customization, standardized vendor specifications are not available. Instead, our team works closely with trusted suppliers to source high-quality components that align with your system’s unique design and operational needs.

Acco
  • Patented Track Crane
  • Systems Hoists
Yale Hoists
  • Electric & Air Hoists
  • Manual Hoists
  • Trolleys
  • End Trucks
STAHL Crane Systems
  • Electric Chain Hoist
  • Electric Wire Rope Hoists
  • Bridge Cranes Components
Street Crane
  • Overhead Cranes
  • Hoists
  • Crane Kits & Components

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FAQs

Unlike standard overhead cranes, process cranes are designed for continuous operation in demanding environments. They typically feature automated controls, high-duty cycle motors, and precision positioning to maximize efficiency and reduce downtime.

Yes! AFE Crane offers semi-automated and fully automated process cranes with advanced control systems, including Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), and remote monitoring. These features improve safety, accuracy, and efficiency in industrial operations.

Yes! AFE Crane offers modernization and upgrade services to enhance older process cranes with new control systems, automation features, improved lifting components, and energy-efficient solutions. This extends the lifespan of existing cranes and increases productivity.

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