Article
How to take care of your crane
Maintaining your crane is well worth the effort. Here are three ways to enhance the safety and efficiency of your overhead crane for years to come:
By Claudio Urdampilleta, Technical Trainer, Konecranes Training Institute
1. Implement a customized maintenance plan
First and foremost, companies should employ a maintenance plan that meets their unique needs and circumstances. At Konecranes, our approach to maintenance is Lifecycle Care. This is a systematic, consistent, comprehensive and professional approach to crane maintenance that aims to provide the Highest Lifecycle Value for the customer.
2. Invest in upgrades
Equipping your crane with the latest technology helps it run more smoothly, endure stress and last longer. For example, Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) technology enables programming and control of electric motors via electronic displays. VFD not only improves operator safety, maximizes crane reliability and saves energy costs, but it also drastically minimizes mechanical stress on components.
If your crane consistently suffers from wear and tear, it may be time to implement upgrades. Konecranes expert engineers are well equipped to help customers decide which modernizations are best suited to their needs.
3. Emphasize training
Crane inspectors, maintenance personnel and operators can work safely once they’ve developed knowledge and expertise. Because of this, comprehensive employee training is an essential component of any crane care plan.
Inspectors and maintenance personnel should be educated on full the range of equipment they’re using and have a firm grasp of the inspection process. Crane operators should also master principles of proper safety crane usage, because misuse commonly causes equipment damage and preventable accidents.
