How to choose a crane for your existing building

Once you've determined that your company requires new overhead cranes or other lifting solutions for an existing facility, the next step involves identifying the necessary performance and design specifications. Key factors to consider include lifting capacity, hook coverage area, travel pattern, span, lift height, and the expected duty cycle of the overhead cranes. This means evaluating how many lifts are needed per hour, the average load for each lift, and the frequency with which loads approach the maximum capacity.

It’s crucial to engage a structural engineer, as you'll need to consider your building's design and its load-bearing limitations. The existing structure plays a pivotal role in deciding whether to opt for standard or custom cranes. For instance, suspending a crane from the ceiling offers a less congested floor space, making the workspace more efficient. However, if the ceiling cannot handle the additional load of an overhead crane, exploring the option of a freestanding crane will be necessary.

When considering a freestanding crane, you'll also have to take into account the floor’s ability to support added loads. It's essential to design the crane installation in such a way that it minimally obstructs daily operations, enhancing both safety and productivity in the workspace.

Another vital aspect is to assess the spatial envelope that the crane will occupy within the building. This encompasses the three-dimensional area used by the crane, including the hook coverage zone and the physical footprint of the crane’s structure. You’ll want to evaluate dimensions such as the distance from the runway rail to the floor, the proximity of the lowest overhead obstruction to the runway rail, and the space between the rail and the nearest wall. Additionally, allow for extra space to ensure that the crane operations do not interfere with other production activities happening nearby.

To help you find a suitable crane that meets your lifting needs while also conforming to the building specifications, consulting a crane expert can be invaluable. They can provide recommendations for enhancing safety and productivity, such as implementing sway control, collision avoidance, and zoning systems.

Do share your long-term material handling expectations with the consultant to ensure that the crane system can adapt as your business grows. Opting for overhead cranes designed to accommodate future expansion can save you substantial costs in the long run.

Finally, involve your crane operators in the planning stages of the new overhead crane installations. Their knowledge of the daily challenges faced during lifting operations can offer essential insights into enhancing both safety and productivity.

Are you interested in learning more about Bespoke Cranes? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!