CMAA Guide to Selecting the Right Overhead Crane

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CMAA Guide to Selecting the Right Overhead Crane

The CMAA has produced the following guide for helping to select the right overhead crane for you application in order to maximize your investment and ease the buying process. If you have an question about this document or need further assistance please contact Hoosier Crane at 800-509-, one of our helpful staff will be happy to answer any questions.

The Crane Manufacturers Association of America, Inc. (CMAA), is an independent trade association affiliated with the United States Division of Material Handling Industry. The voluntary association of CMAA members has existed since .
CMAA member companies are concerned, conscientious manufacturers who have come together in an industry association for the purpose of providing voluntary standards for mechanical, structural and electrical design of cranes, as well as formulating guidelines for the proper use, operation and maintenance of those cranes. Members donate countless hours of their time toward these earnest efforts.

Selecting the Right Overhead Crane

The selection of the proper overhead crane system is critical to the safe and economical operation of your facility. The owner is responsible for selecting a qualified crane supplier.

Factors to Consider In Proper Overhead Crane Selection

The following factors are included in the CMAA Guide for selecting an overhead crane and we will expand upon these factors to make them easier to understand.

Application

1. Material Handling
2. Single or Double Girder
3. Load Rating (Capacity)
4. Service Rating (Frequency of Operation)
5. Control / Speed
6. Top Running or Under Running
7. Electric, Air or Manual
8. Impact on Production

Facility

1. Clearance Requirements
2. Building Width / Crane Span
3. Building Length
4. Low Obstruction / Crane Hook Height
5. Runway Beams / ASCE Rail
6. Column Supports
7. Environment
8. Maintenance Access / Service Platforms

Application Factorsin Selecting an Overhead Crane

1. Material Handling: Identify what type of material you will be handling with you crane is the first factor to consider. Determining whether you are moving a solid piece of steel vs. a hot liquid, or if you will be picking a variety of materials versusa specialized load can help your crane manufacturer design the ideal solution for your needs to minimize cost and maximize productivity.
2. Single or Double Girder: A Girder is the beam that spans the end trucks to form the bridge of the crane. For top running systems capacities from 1ton to 15 tons you will typically use a single girder design, although a double girder is occasionally used to gainadditional headroom. Overheadcrane systems over 15 tons typically have a double girder design, to avoid loss of headroom (lift height) caused by the height of the girders required to handle heavier loads.
3. Load Rating: This is simply how much your pick up with your crane, be sure to take into account the weight any below the hook devices or rigging you will need to safely handle your load. For more information check out this video on how to determine capacity.
4. Service Rating:Service rating is the frequency of use of the crane, that is how many pick per day at a a certain percentage of capacity. In the United States this is a rating scale with a Class A- F.For more information read about duty ratings in this article...
5. Control / Speed:When moving your load how fast will you need to have it positioned and will you need single or double speed crane controls. Higher speed will mean higher cost, but you want to make sure that a slow crane is not a bottle neck in the productions line. Two speed controls will cost more, but can make precisely handling faster crane system easier and safer.
6. Top Running or Under Running:Determining this factor is mostly based upon your building and the type of crane you require. Under hung system are popular in lower capacities as they can be suspended from the ceiling of your facility allowing for more floorspace, they are also a popular option in pre-engineered workstation cranes. Top running cranes are typically used in larger systems or when the crane requires more headroom.
7. Electric, Air or Manual Power: Determining you power source is also important, air powered pneumatic system arepopular solution in the automotive industry as well as in oil and natural gas crane system for their fast operation and available spark and explosion resistant options. Manual crane are very cost effective, but are only practical up to certain capacities. Most companies choose to use 3-phase electric to power their overhead cranes system, as it is a reliable cost effective option, single phase systems can also be built up to 2 tons.
8. Impact on production: An overhead crane is a large investment for most companies and you need to think about the placement within your facility and how it will impact the production of your shop. Work with your crane builder and your managmentto maximize plant layout prior to installation get the best return on investment.

Above recommendation are adapted and excerpted from from the below attached pdf CMAA_SELECTING_CRANES.pdf as published by CMAA and MHI.

Selecting the appropriate bridge building crane for your project is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the efficiency, safety, and overall success of your construction endeavor. With a myriad of options available in the market, each designed to meet specific requirements, navigating through the choices can be overwhelming. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision when choosing a bridge building crane for your project.

Understand Your Project Requirements:

Before delving into the various crane options, it is imperative to have a clear understanding of your project requirements. Consider the following factors:

a. Weight Capacity: Determine the maximum weight that the crane will need to lift. This includes not only the weight of the load but also any potential future increases in load size.

b. Span and Reach: Evaluate the span and reach required for your project. Consider the dimensions of the bridge or structure that the crane will be operating over.

c. Height: Assess the height requirements for lifting and placing materials. Ensure that the crane can reach the necessary elevation without compromising safety or efficiency.

d. Environmental Factors: Take into account the environmental conditions at the construction site, such as wind speed, temperature, and potential exposure to corrosive elements. This information will help in selecting a crane with the appropriate features for the job.

Choose the Right Type of Bridge Building Crane:

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There are several types of cranes designed specifically for bridge building projects. The two most common types are:

a. Overhead Crane: Overhead cranes, also known as bridge cranes, are suitable for projects where heavy loads need to be lifted and transported horizontally within a fixed area. They consist of a horizontal beam that spans the width of the workspace, allowing for precise control over load movement.

b. Gantry Crane: Gantry cranes are versatile and can be moved along a set of tracks on the ground. This mobility makes them ideal for bridge construction, as they can be positioned at various points along the structure. Gantry cranes are available in both single and double girder configurations.

Consider Crane Mobility and Maneuverability:

The mobility and maneuverability of the crane are crucial factors, especially in bridge construction where the crane may need to access different areas of the project site. Gantry cranes with rubber tires are an excellent choice for projects that require frequent relocation, as they can move easily on various terrains.

Assess Safety Features:

Safety should be a top priority when selecting a bridge building crane. Look for features such as overload protection, emergency stop buttons, and collision avoidance systems. Additionally, ensure that the crane complies with industry safety standards and regulations.

Evaluate Power Source Options:

Crane power sources vary, with options including electric, hydraulic, and diesel. The choice of power source depends on factors such as the availability of electricity, environmental considerations, and the specific requirements of the project. Electric cranes are environmentally friendly and cost-effective for projects with a stable power supply, while diesel-powered cranes are suitable for remote locations or where electricity is not readily available.

Consider Maintenance and Serviceability:

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity and reliability of your bridge building crane. Choose a crane model that is easy to maintain, with readily available replacement parts. Consider the manufacturer's reputation for providing prompt and reliable service and support.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right bridge building crane for your project requires careful consideration of various factors, including weight capacity, span and reach, environmental conditions, safety features, mobility, power source, and maintenance requirements. By thoroughly assessing these factors and understanding the specific needs of your project, you can make an informed decision that will contribute to the success and efficiency of your bridge construction endeavor.