Overhead crane parts

Types of overhead crane parts

The overhead crane parts assist in functioning and supporting the overhead cranes. Here are some of the key parts of an overhead crane.

• Hoist

  The hoist is the part of the crane that is in charge of lifting the loads. It has a motor, gearbox, drum (which the wire rope goes around), and load-bearing elements like hooks or slings. Electric wire rope hoists are an example of crane lifting equipment.

• Bridge

  The bridge is the part of the crane that goes across the support columns. It allows horizontal movement of the load. Bridges can consist of a single beam (for girders cranes) or two parallel beams (for bridge cranes).

• Pulley Block

  The pulley block is an assembly that contains multiple pulleys, which are usually fitted into a frame. Its purpose is to change the direction of the cable movement or to distribute the load's weight.

• Girders

  Girders are the main horizontal support beams that the crane runs on. They form the topmost part of the crane, and the hoist travels along them. The girder can be an I-beam, box beam, or another shape, depending on the crane's design.

• End Trucks

  End trucks are the units that are found at either end of the crane bridge. They are used for mounting the bridge to the support columns. Two types of end trucks are commonly used: normally driven and actively driven.

• Control System

  This is the component of the crane that is used for controlling its movements and operations. It can take the form of pendant controls, remote controls, or buttons and switches on a dashboard.

• Columns

  The columns are the vertical structures that support the horizontal girders. Their design and position determine the crane's span and lift capacity.

Specification and Maintenance

Specification

• Weight Capacity:

  Overhead cranes are intended to transport weighty objects, so they all have a specified weight capacity. This indicates the maximum weight that the crane can functionally lift and shift. Weight capacity may vary in different models, but it usually ranges from several tons to hundreds of tons. The weight capacity of an overhead crane should be determined according to the actual requirements of usage places to avoid selecting one with a low weight capacity that may hinder operations or one with an overly high capacity that is uneconomical.

• Span Length:

  The span length is the horizontal distance between the two end trucks of an overhead crane. Span lengths can vary from several meters to tens of meters. The span length determines the coverage area that the crane can reach. A greater span length enables the crane to cover a larger area, thereby facilitating the lifting and transfer of objects in that area.

• Lifting Height:

  The lifting height refers to the maximum height to which an overhead crane can lift objects. This can also vary from several meters to tens of meters. The lifting height determines the vertical range of the crane and is essential for operations that need to reach higher places.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the proper functioning and safety of an overhead crane by keeping its parts in good condition for a long time. Below are some general maintenance tips corresponding to various overhead crane parts:

• Lifting Mechanism:

  Regularly inspect the overhead crane parts of the lifting mechanism, such as the hook, beam, and hoist overhead crane parts. Check for signs of wear, damage, or deformation, and repair or replace them in time if needed. Maintain and lubricate the lifting mechanism as per the specified maintenance schedule to ensure its smooth and stable operation.

• Overhead Crane Control System:

  Cleaning and maintenance of crane controls are frequently used overhead crane control parts. Remove the dirt and debris from the control device, ensuring its cleanliness and functionality. Regularly inspect the control cables and circuit overhead parts. Check for signs such as wear or exposure, and repair or replace them promptly if needed to avoid potential safety risks.

• Overhead Crane Structure:

  Check the structural parts of the crane, such as the beam, columns, and cross members, on a regular basis. Ensure that the joints and connections are well-strained and not loosened. Pay attention to monitoring the overhead crane structure for signs of corrosion or damage, and perform the repairs or treatments in time if needed, so as to maintain the stability and safety of the crane structure.

• Overhead Crane Electrical System:

  Regularly check the electrical circuits and terminals of the crane. Ensure the overhead crane parts are well-wired and not loosened or overtly strained. Pay attention to the electrical insulation performance, and promptly deal with the problems above if any are found, thereby avoiding potential electrical hazards.

• Lubrication System:

  For machines with a lubrication system, their oil pumps and pipes should be checked periodically to guarantee proper oil supply and lubrication. Meanwhile, regularly inspect overhead crane parts lubricated. Ensure that they are well-lubricated, clean, and free from the accumulation of dirt and dust. Furthermore, select appropriate lubricants according to the specifications and requirements for overhead cranes.

Industry scenarios of overhead crane parts

• Industrial manufacturing:

  Many diverse industries, including automotive, shipbuilding, steel mills, and construction, utilize overhead cranes as vital machinery for handling raw components, assemblies, and finished products. Overhead crane parts like beams, trolleys, hoists, and control systems optimize the production lines by moving heavy objects from one spot to another swiftly.

• Warehousing and logistics:

  In warehouses, distribution centers, loading docks, and ports, overhead cranes lift pallets, containers, and cargo between storage areas and trucks or ships. The crane parts' slings, trolleys, and control devices allow pallets and high containers to be transferred without hassle, improving throughput efficiency.

• Construction sites:

  Cranes at building sites move girders, pre-cast concrete slabs, machinery, and other heavy materials. Overhead cranes can also load vehicles on construction drives. In tunnels, bridges, and hydropower projects, the overhead crane parts also handle items. Cranes reduce workforce costs and enhance precision, which is routine in large construction projects.

• Aerospace and aviation:

  Cranes in aviation and aerospace plants transport high-value goods like aircraft frames, engine components, and assembled aircraft. Overhead Crane partsDrones are widely utilized in regions where delicate components must be efficiently and precisely handled.

• Energy and power generation:

  In power plants, wind farms, and oil refineries, cranes may also handle turbines, generators, transformers, and other heavy equipment used to provide energy.

• Marine and shipyard:

  Cranes in shipyards and ports lift ships, containers, and marine structures. The crane parts' slings, trolleys, and control devices allow pallets and high containers to be transferred without hassle, improving throughput efficiency.

• Mining and metallurgy:

  In mines, smelters, and ore processing plants, overhead cranes transport ores, metals, smelting furnaces, and other heavy materials used in metallurgy. These cranes handle bulky things with accuracy and ease, a necessity in the industry.

• Medical and laboratory:

  Cranes precisely transport delicate equipment, samples, and instruments in hospitals, medical device manufacturing, and research labs. The machines move essential goods quickly so tests and treatments can be delivered on time.

How to choose overhead crane parts

• Functionality:

  Check whether the crane parts are functional. If the overhead crane is fully functional, there is no need to change parts. However, if the crane was non-functional due to certain faulty parts, then only those should be considered for replacement that makes the equipment work again.

• Compatibility:

  Business buyers need to ensure that the selected crane parts are compatible with the existing crane model. If they don't properly fit and connect, they could impede the crane's performance and safety.

• Quality:

  Always choose overhead crane parts that comply with international quality standards. Opt for parts with the supplier's CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) documents to ensure support for sustainable practices.

• Supplier:

  Choose a supplier with expertise in crane parts. A knowledgeable supplier will provide guidance in selecting the appropriate parts for business requirements.

• Warranty:

  No one wants to invest in parts with a limited warranty. Therefore, consider those parts that offer at least a one-year warranty to avoid extra expenses on replacements shortly.

• Cost:

  Although crane parts are an expensive investment, some cost-effective options are: Checking whether the price being charged is reasonable or in line with what is being offered. Considering the long-term costs of performance, safety, and maintenance, cheap parts can lead to expensive repairs.

Overhead crane parts Q&A

Q1. How to identify the overhead crane parts diagram?

A1. Overhead crane parts can be identified by online diagrams that show names and labels of all parts. The diagrams have named and labeled the following parts: bridge, girder, end truck, runway, hoist, lift hook, trolley, crane cabin, operator controls, pulleys, counterweight, and safety devices.

Q2. What are the main components of an overhead crane?

A2. The main components of an overhead crane include the bridge, end truck, runway, hoist, lift hook, trolley, operator cabin, and safety devices. The bridge is the horizontal component that spans the runway and supports the hoist. The end truck is mounted at each end of the bridge and moves the crane along the runway. The runway is the beam or track located at the facility’s overhead space. The hoist is responsible for lifting and moving overhead crane loads. The other components of an overhead crane are detailed in the previous Q1.

Q3. What are the functions of overhead crane parts?

A3. Overhead crane parts have the following functions. The bridge, end truck, and runway support the entire crane structure. The hoist and trolley facilitate the lifting and horizontal movement of loads respectively. The operator cabin contains the controls that are used to drive, lift, and move loads with the overhead crane. The safety devices prevent accidents by detecting and responding to dangerous situations.

Q4. How are overhead crane parts maintained?

A4. Crane parts are maintained by following manufacturing instructions for maintenance, lubrication, and servicing. Regular inspections should be done, and replacement parts must be installed whenever necessary. Crane operators should be trained on proper usage to prevent wear and damage to parts.