Whether you are planning to buy a tower crane for the first time or just want to maintain your existing crane, there are many maintenance requirements that you should know. Here are a few tips for keeping your crane, from changing and lubricating moving parts to aligning various components.
Greasing Moving Parts
Keeping the moving parts of your crane properly lubricated is one of the most essential parts of maintenance for a crane manufacturer. It helps ensure the proper functioning and reduces the risk of unscheduled equipment maintenance.
Choosing the correct lubricating grease can make a big difference in the lifetime of your equipment. You should select lubricants that match the application and environment.
A good rule of thumb is to use lithium-based lubricants for gearbox bearings and wire ropes. However, do not use high heat resistance grease on hydraulic hammers.
It is essential to lubricate a crane at least once every two hundred hours of operation. This is especially true for slow-revolving cranes. It is also a good idea to grease the wheels of your mobile crane.
In addition to lubricating the moving parts, you should also check your brakes and clutches daily. Taking care of these components will reduce downtime and improve your productivity.
Changing and/or Lubricating Moving Parts
Changing and/or lubricating moving parts for crane maintenance requirements is a critical task that should not be neglected. If not done correctly, the parts can fail and cause severe injury or death.
When performing crane maintenance, operators must follow the instructions from the manufacturer. They should also check for physical damage and visual signs of trouble. If they find any problems, they should immediately report them to a supervisor.
Before a crane is put into service, it should undergo an inspection. This will help identify problems and prevent them from occurring. In addition, it is advisable to make a list of maintenance requirements and keep a record of all work performed. This can help with legal matters and reduce downtime and risk.
After the crane has been inspected, it should not be operated by a crane manufacturer or crane specialist until any repairs or maintenance is completed. In addition, it should be positioned in the location with the most minor interference.
Aligning Various Components
Keeping the various components of your crane adequately aligned can prevent catastrophic failure. It also reduces the chance of high maintenance costs.
Several alignment methods include straight edge and feeler gauges, optical systems and electronic indicators. Which way will work best depends on your equipment and your operating conditions.
Checking the alignment of your crane rails can be a tricky process. Misaligned rails can cause accelerated wear on axles and other structural elements and increased wheel wear.
During an alignment, the brakes should be inspected. This should include any loose linkage, thin linings, and lubrication. It may also be necessary to block the equipment while it’s being repaired.
Using a laser auto-tracking total station can help you achieve an accurate alignment. It can also measure the level and span of a rail, which can help determine if your runway is out of alignment.
Non-Destructive Inspection of Specific Components
Performing non-destructive inspection of specific components in crane maintenance requirements is essential to equipment maintenance. These inspections ensure the equipment’s safety and reduce downtime costs. The process involves inspecting the parts and evaluating their condition.
The results of the tests are recorded on a crane safety inspection sheet. It will contain photos, measurements, and other findings. The report should be signed by the person carrying out the work. It should also record any irregularities that were discovered.
The type of non-destructive testing procedure will depend on the tested component. The most common method is a visual inspection. During this process, the operator walks around the machine and looks for kinks, cracks, and other defects.
Another standard procedure is magnetic particle testing. This technique induces a magnetic field in the hook. When a metallic particle emitted from the arc reaches the surface, it indicates a running problem.
Compliance and Certification Requirements for Tower Cranes
Whether you’re a general contractor or a tower crane owner, there are many compliance and certification requirements for tower cranes you must meet. These include maintenance, operator qualifications, safety inspections and equipment certification. These inspections are essential to ensure your tower crane is safe and operating effectively.
A tower crane must be maintained according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. This includes the cab, hoisting mechanism brakes and the support system. In addition, the cab must be adequately ventilated, and the windows should be constructed from a transparent safety glazing material.
Pre-erection testing is also required, as per the manufacturer’s specifications. This includes non-destructive testing of critical areas such as the slew ring bolts and strong welds. This test must be conducted by competent persons and documented.
A tower crane’s capacity chart must be legible in the cab and show all load ratings at all stated operating radii. It must also limit the load block’s upward motion.
