How to Avoid Overhead Crane Failure

May 1, 2020 at 4:00 AM
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Overhead cranes are massive machines that rely on a lot of moving parts to function properly. At T&M Cranes, we sell and service overhead cranes in Kentucky, Indiana, and Illinois. Our priority is making sure all of our customers have the best experience possible with the cranes they use. In order to ensure the safety of your workers and to optimize the time spent operating your crane, follow these steps. With a commitment to inspections and regular maintenance, you can avoid overhead crane failure.

Inspect Before Each Use

Because cranes and hoists handle heavy loads all the time, it’s not unusual for certain parts to become damaged. The problem is, when something as minor as a rope or cable frays, you can easily run into problems.

In addition to the initial inspection performed at the time of sale, anyone operating an overhead crane should inspect it before every shift. This includes looking for faulty wires, cracks, and signs of damage, such as leaking fluid. When operating, it’s also important to pay attention to warning signs that could indicate alignment problems, such as scraping and sudden creaking sounds. When something changes in the way the crane operates, from new sounds to a change in movement, always consult with a trained crane inspector as soon as you can.

Have a Professional Perform Regular Inspections

With any type of large machinery, inspections are critical. A damaged track or broken cord could lead to failure during operation. Worn parts could put workers at risk. And, small problems that could be inexpensive to address can turn into major issues that will cost a lot of money to repair.

Schedule professional inspections with a third-party provider. They can go through all the necessary checks to verify that everything is in order. They’ll test electrical components, check connections, and evaluate cords, hooks, and structural parts – this will help to identify issues that your regular pre-shift inspections could miss.

Replace Parts Before They Fail

Don’t wait until something breaks to replace it. In order to prevent overhead crane failure, it’s important to stay on top of maintenance and to replace parts before they break down. Even with normal use, parts such as the end truck wheels and the trolley frame won’t last that long. With heavy use, it’s even more critical that you have someone you trust ensuring every component is in great shape and ready for action.

At T&M Cranes, we offer dependable maintenance and repair services. Our skilled techs can inspect your overhead crane. We’ll also let you know about any parts that may need to be repaired, replaced, or what you may want to do to modernize the equipment.

For overhead cranes in Kentucky, Indiana, and throughout the region, business owners and project managers count on us. As a family-run business, we’ve built up a reputation for reliable services and quality solutions, ensuring the region’s businesses are benefiting from high-quality cranes and hoists.

If you need an overhead crane inspected, contact us today. We’ll do a comprehensive inspection and document the results so you know your equipment won’t fail on site.