Below we outline some of the different variations of overhead cranes. While all these overhead cranes look the same to the untrained eye, the way they can be used greatly differ.

Where are overhead Cranes frequently used?

• Steel and Metal Refinement

• Aviation hangars

• Automobile workshops

• Concrete product manufacturing

• Power plants

• Waste Water treatment plants

• General industry.

Types of Overhead Cranes

1. Single Girder Top Running Cranes

With load capacities up to 120 tonnes, and a spanning lengths up to a lengthy 35 metres single girder top running cranes are useful for lifting some of the heaviest loads. In comparison to under running cranes top running cranes can also move at higher speeds than their underhung counterparts. The single girder top running crane has a lower cost to produce than the double girder model, although its lifting height is less than the double girder since the hoist is mounted underneath the girder bridge rather than above it.

2. Single Girder Under Running Cranes

Typically supported from the building’s ceiling structure, underhung cranes are the superior solution when headroom is limited and in tight spaces. The crane trolley travels underneath the bridge runway instead of above it, but normally less heavy loads are available (up to 8 tonnes) are supported and shorter spans up to 25 metres. Single girder underslung cranes are best used in light to medium applications where space may be limited.

3. Double Girder Top Running Crane

Double Girder top running cranes are most often used in spans of 20-30 metres and since the hook travels between the two beams instead of below the beams a higher lift is available which gives greater clearance options for transporting taller and wider loads. They are often used when higher speeds are needed or supplementary equipment like walkways are needed to be fitted to the crane.

We can visit your site around Brisbane and south east Queensland to advise which crane might be best suited to the industrial needs of your business. If you need the right advice on all things crane related, call Austwide Cranes and Chains today on (07) 3823 5880

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There are many things that can make a crane accident more likely, and while not all accidents are fatal, there have been a number of deaths around the world from incorrect use, or poor maintenance schedules of crane equipment – among other reasons. We explain the main causes of crane accidents in this post. 

1.     Cranes that topple over. (Also called overturns)

This can be caused by balancing issues where counter weights are not equally distributed causing uneven distribution of weight. When lifting heavy weights is essential that there is the right amount of stabilising weight to evenly compensate for the material being lifted.

2.     Mechanical Failure

There can be a range of issues that can cause accidents from mechanical failure. Outriggers (the mechanical legs on both sides may not completely retract which can also cause balancing issues causing the overturn scenario explained above.

3.     Poor training or other user error

Operator error is the next biggest reason for crane accidents, but sometimes errors can also be a result of the signalperson, site workers or oversights from the lift planner or rigger. While there is always the potential for concentration lapses and human error, proper training in usage and operation for all people working with cranes is absolutely essential. Sometimes these training requirements can be overlooked, rushed or inadequate causing damage from cranes or worse, injury or death.

Other accidents involving cranes have been contact with power lines or incorrect crane assembly

As Brisbane’s leading crane and lifting system service, we can supply, manufacture and train you in the correct and safe assembly, usage and operation of crane equipment. To speak to Luke and the team at Austwide Cranes and Chains call us today on (07) 3823 5880

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Our training is custom to your crane, and any other specific requirements you may have, it will emphasise the correct way to operate your crane and highlight features that will enable better efficiency on the use of the crane. Correct training will translate to less operator errors, reduce crane misuse and possible damage, thus saving you time and money in the long run. Our training has been designed in accordance to the unit of competence, RIIHAN305A Operate a gantry or overhead crane, it is presented by a service tech, someone who knows what the customer needs to know not someone who just sits in a classroom and may not even know the parts on your crane. Training is carried out on site in the customer’s workshop using the cranes the operator uses every day.

• Pre-start inspection.
• Design and markings on the crane.
• Operational checks.
• Safe operating.
• Planning the lift.
• Use for intended purpose.
• Prevention of accidents.
• How to deal with disturbances.
• Instructions concerning malfunctions.
• Power supply, isolation switches and limits.
• Use of radio control.
• Shut down procedure.
• Lifting slings and chain slinging methods.
• Inspecting your lifting equipment prior to use.

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