Ten Tips For Standard Crane Buyers
In this article, we would like to use our experienceas manufacturers to help standard crane buyersmake the right decision on purchasing these vitalproduction assets.Our “TEN TIpsfOr BuyErs” list aseries of minimumprecautions to be takenbefore embarking onthis major investment.They are not aimed asa set of instructions forbuying, but we hope theywill help answer someof your queries.
1. DON’T JUST THINK OF THE COST OF THE CRANE.
It is a strategic mistake to only baseyour purchase on elements suchas the cost of the crane itself andnot others such as corrective and/or preventive maintenance over thenext few years, as these are just asimportant. Manufacturers who investin the durability and reliability of theirequipment will realise that they maybe more expensive today… But they’llbe much more profitable tomorrow.
2. TAKE SAFETY INTO ACCOUNT.
Ignoring the crane’s safety elements is a big mistake, and it also has a direct impact on the crane’s working life. The buyer may not need to know about the european safety standard, but he does need to ensure the manufacturer complies with it. Just try this out: ask about the cable’s safety coefficient (it mustn’t be any lower than 5).
3. ASK ABOUT KEY FEATURE
The hook might seem like a mere accessory, but it’s vital to safety as a loadhanging element. Ask to see the designof the hook. Many manufacturers aremore concerned with design than withhook strength, and their hooks don’tmeet the required standards.
4. DON’T FORGET ABOUT MAINTENANCE
All production assets have to be in perfect working order to fulfiltheir expectations, and the cranemanufacturer should thereforerecommend preventive maintenancethat will extend the working life ofthe crane. Electronic devices existtoday for checking the state of thecranes, their correct functioning andthe maintenance requirements thatwill prevent unwanted problems fromoccurring. If the manufacturer hasprovided a robust, tried-and-testedstandard design, part replacement willbe much quicker, cheaper and efficient.
5. DON’T EXPECT YOUR CRANE TO WORK THAT LITTLE BIT EXTRA
That’s a really big mistake. Overloading the crane endangers its safety and shortens the life of its components. For loads of over 1000 kg a load limiting device is required by law, to prevent temptation. Many manufacturers offer the option of a display showing the weight of the load, which can save you unpleasant surprises.
6. THE DESIGN OF THE SINBLE-GIRDER TROLLEY DRIVE IS IMPORTANT
If the drive is only on one side, the trolley will be subject to cross-stressing that will shorten its lifetime. Make sure the manufacturer provides transmission on both sides.
7. DON’T JUST LOOK AT THE DESIGN FOR DOUBLE GIRDER TROLLEYS
Ask for a jointed frame design that will ensure all four wheels are correctly secured and prevent premature wear.
8. THINK ABOUT THE INCLUSION OF CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY
Frequency inverters for crane drive improve crane movement control and prolong the life of electrical components, mechanisms, motors, gears, bearings…
9. THINK ABOUT THE INCLUSION OF INNOVATIONS TO IMPROVE SAFETY
Frequency inverters will prevent problems with load swing and inaccurate movement.
10. CHECK THE GEOMETRICAL CONSTRUCTION OF THE CRANE AND ITS ALIGNMENT
A well-manufactured support structure for the crane is vital (camber, pre-camber, squaring, correct wheel alignment, etc.).