All about overhead ranes

A number of operations that involve metal fabricating involve the use of overhead cranes. However, a big number of companies do not use them simply because they are unaware of their exact capabilities. So, whenever they get a crane for rent, they end up choosing the wrong crane due to a lack of knowledge. In a big number of instances, overhead cranes are extremely useful and can actually get the work done much quicker.

What is overhead crane?

The overhead bridge crane is the most common type that is used in manufacturing plants and such industries. This is primarily because overhead bridge cranes offer a hook motion along three different axes. For instance, they can not only move up and down, but they also move back and forth, along with side to side motion. As a result of this, these cranes are extremely useful.

Now that we are talking about overhead bridge cranes, let us also briefly discuss gantry cranes. Gantry cranes tend to work in a similar way with one big difference. Gantry cranes are supported on floor unlike overhead cranes.

Where are gantry cranes used?

Gantry cranes are primarily used in industries where transportation of loads is required from one building to another. Furthermore, they are also used when a manufacturer does not have intentions to stay in a single spot for long.

How are cranes classified in the USA?

Well the classification of cranes in the United States may be a little complex for a layman to understand. Basically, the cranes are classified by the Crane Manufacturers Association of America (CMAA). This entity classifies crane into five different categories that include Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, Class E, and Class F.

In general, Class A covers all the maintenance and installation cranes which require movement of equipment at considerably low speeds. In comparison, Class F, which lies on the other end of the spectrum covers gantry type cranes. These class of cranes handle loads that are significantly heavier.

All the other classes of crane tend to lie in between these major classes.

The safety precautions with overhead cranes

With overhead cranes, there is one biggest safety precaution which says that never ever dare to bring a load on top of anybody’s head. This golden rule is a big concern due to the fact that many companies do not really train their crane operators properly. Usually, crane operators happen to be the lowest paid of the lot.

If at such a site, you will ask any crane operator about the crane’s rated capacity, they will have no answer. This is because they are usually not trained properly. Hence the biggest safety precaution is to let the cranes be operated by trained individuals only.

With that, another safety precaution is for everybody on the site to be wearing helmets along with other personal protective gear. This also applies to the operator of the crane himself, and everybody else.

Conclusion

When it comes to overhead cranes, they are quite complex. Hence, they need a certified operator for their proper operation. Yet a big number of companies do not hire trained operators in order to save their costs. This may even be illegal to some extent. So, security and safety of everybody on the site should be the first priority. In case you are looking to rent a crane for your business/work, reach out to small crane rentals DC near you. However, before you rent the crane, it is very important to do all your homework. Essentially, you should know exactly what your requirements are and what you need the crane for.