Buying an overhead crane system isn’t a simple task. It’s not like buying a TV or a gaming system where you just need to pay attention to specs and hope that the specs match the ones mentioned in the product description. An overhead crane system is used to lift heavy loads and move them from one place to another, and any kind of problems with the system could lead to devastating consequences for people working on the floor.
Even if an overhead crane system is safe to operate, wrong choice can lead to poor efficiency and will negatively affect your business operations. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right overhead cranes.
Different Types of Overhead Cranes
Before we dive deep into different types of overhead cranes, it is important for you to understand that all the installations of even the same type of overhead crane system are not the same. There are a lot of differences in terms of span width, span length and a variety of other things.
Here’s a list of some of the most popular overhead crane configurations that are widely used everywhere.
- Jib cranes
- Monorail cranes
- Workstation cranes
- Gantry cranes
- Bridge cranes
In addition to these, you must have heard of various configurations such as double girder cranes, single girder cranes, under running cranes as well as top running cranes.
You must be wondering what is the need for so many different terms when all these cranes can be classified into a single category of overhead cranes. The biggest difference among these different types is typically the overall load capacity and span distance as well as their use. For instance, a double girder crane is typically used where the load capacity is high and span length is typically over 65 feet. Similarly, under running a cranes are preferred in places where it is important to maximize the floor space. Under hung cranes typically have lower capacity as compared to other types. In short, all these classifications are based on typical use cases.
Different Classes
If you know anything about overhead cranes, you would know that cranes are classified into different classes based on several factors such as frequency of use, working environment and several other similar factors. Based on these factors, cranes are classified into 6 different classes with the highest class being designed to be used at the maximum rated capacity continuously and in harsh working environment. On the other hand, the lowest class system is designed for cranes that are used infrequently and mostly for maintenance work.
If you are going to use the crane frequently and at a load that is close to its maximum rated capacity, it would be best for you to buy a crane in the F class. On the other hand, a crane in the class A or class B would suffice in case you are going to use it once in a while and it is unlikely to be used at close to its maximum rated capacity.
To conclude, there are many different types of overhead cranes that are typically defined on the bases of the manner in which they are used. The most basic difference between different types is their load capacity, frequency of use and typical use case. You can also say that all the overhead cranes have the same working principle. If you’re not sure which type of overhead crane is right for you, you should get in touch with a reputed manufacturer and let the experts there help you choose the right overhead crane.