Regular maintenance of an overhead crane is crucial in order to ensure that it runs efficiently and safely. Replacing worn or damaged parts is an essential part of this maintenance. Not only does regularly replacing crane parts prevent accidents, but it also helps to prolong the life of the crane. Neglect replacing such essential parts at your own risk! The results of such oversight is costly repairs or even complete crane replacement. In this blog post, we'll discuss the importance of crane maintenance and the different parts of an overhead crane that can be replaced.
Hooks and Slings
These essential crane components are exposed to a lot of force and take on a lot of wear and tear. Hook fatigue or worn-out slings can lead to accidents, so replacing them regularly is a must. If you're unsure about the quality of your hooks or slings, it's better to err on the side of caution and replace them.
Trolley Wheels and Track
The trolley wheels and track of your crane work together to move the crane along its beam. Over time, wheels and track can accumulate dust, dirt, and grime. Such buildup can become abrasive and lead to increased wear, potentially leading to derailment. In turn, derailment of the crane trolley can cause loss of life, crane downtime, and expensive repairs. Worn trolley wheels and track are a significant safety hazard, so keep an eye on the condition of these critial parts.
Load Wheel and Wheel Bearings
The load wheel is a critical component of a crane that supports the weight of the object that's being lifted. If the load wheel or bearings are worn, the load may shift, leading to an accident. Furthermore, if the wheel bearings are worn out, the load wheel can damage the motor, gearbox, or other parts of the crane. Crane operators and maintainance professionals should frequently grease and replace bearings to prevent downtime and loss of productivity.
Control Switches and Buttons
The buttons and control switches on a crane play a crucial role in a crane's operation. These knobs and dials are the interface between the crane operator and the crane's electrical system. Worn, damaged, or malfunctioning control switches and buttons can lead to crane operation failure and unsafe conditions for the operator and other personnel. Frequent checks and timely replacement of control switches and buttons are essential.
Electrical Components
Overhead cranes rely on electronic components, such as relays, fuses, circuit breakers, and controllers. These components need to be maintained and replaced regularly because of the amount of wear and tear they experience.
Brakes and Motor
When a crane needs to stop quickly, well-maintained brakes become the most important safety feature available! Regularly check the brake pads and replace them when necessary to prevent catastrophic accidents.
If a crane is being used constantly, the motor will eventually wear out. In fact, one of the main reasons hoist motors fail is due to overuse. Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent premature motor failure, but in some cases, the motor will need to be replaced regardless. Keep up to date records on motor age and maintainence to avoid physical and financial disaster.
Having ready access to crane replacement parts is crucial for ensuring safety, prolonging the life of a crane, and preventing costly repairs. From the hoist motor to the electrical components, many different parts require replacement over time. Whether you're using a crane for construction or manufacturing, regular maintenance is key. Be sure to work with a knowledgeable technician to identify and replace any worn or damaged parts. By doing so, you'll be able to maintain a safe and efficient crane that will meet your lifting needs for many years to come. When you need expert advice and delivery of the highest quality crane replacement parts, get in touch with us at T&M Cranes. We can’t wait to hear from you!
