Buying Tips for New & Used Cranes

Top 10 Buying Tips

During the ProMat 2009 Conference, CMMA members were offered a session on "How to Buy an Overhead Crane with Confidence". Their Top 10 Overhead Crane Buying Tips are summarized below. If you'd like more detailed information to assist you with selecting a single or double girder crane or in choosing the most suitable lifting attachments (below the hook), contact Metropolitan Crane and Hoist Company.

Their vast experience and expertise will prove a valuable resource for resolving any overhead crane issues for specific applications, environments and performance needs. Ask the Pros at Metro!

Top 10 Buying Tips

  1. Define Your Crane Needs and Understand the Different Crane Service Classifications
    KEY POINTS:
    • Maximum lifting capacity
    • Average weight per load lifted
    • Number of loads lifted per hour
    • Number of loads lifted per day, per shift and per week
    • Travel distances
    • Travel speed along those distances
  2. Differences in Overhead Crane Classifications
    Knowing how crane lifting capacities are different from service classifications is a good start. Determine what type will best fit your needs (Jib crane, work station crane, under running bridge crane, top running bridge crane, single or double girder crane, or gantry crane).
  3. Know Differences between Manual, Electric and Air-Powered Hoists
  4. Consider Variations in Structural Components
    These factors can increase and impact the Overall Crane Weight, Maintenance and Costs
  5. Review Mechanical Components
    Be sure the mechanical components are suitable for your budget, as well as your application usage
  6. Motor Controls
    While VFD controls provide excellent crane positioning and speed control, the environments might be too harsh on the solid state electronics equipment. Ask your crane manufacturer or overhead crane experts for more information...
  7. Operator Controls
    These factors will influence the overall bridge design; know the operator's position, style of controls, and whether it will be semi- or fully-automated
  8. Special Process Cranes
    Make sure that your manufacturer and installer are both experienced in your specialized area of material handling and lifting needs
  9. Below-the-Hook Attachments
    Look for companies that specialize in below the hook hoist attachments; they can provide valuable information early in the buying process
  10. Electrical Components
    Be sure that the motor type, rating, frame and brakes are the proper combination for your service classification and applications

Source: Originally presented at ProMat 2009 by Peter A. Kerrick, Bushman Avontec.

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