Overhead crane equipment can last decades. And if it is properly installed, engineered and maintained, it can go through a lifetime. But when an overhead crane becomes outdated, unsafe or unreliable, an organisation must modernise or upgrade it.
Fortunately, you don't have to go through the same process of repurchasing it – any overhead crane equipment that does not work efficiently can be upgraded or modernised to meet its production requirement.
Replacing or repairing components in a timely fashion will give your machine added life.
However, as well as replacing or repairing components that may have decayed over time, you may also need to upgrade or modernise your unit if you introduce a new production shift – i.e. make more lifts than before per shift, or the overhead crane equipment needs to lift heavier or different materials.
Overhead crane parts that one can upgrade
Some of the parts of the overhead crane that can be upgraded or modernised include:
• Crane control system
• Brake system
• Trolley gearbox and hoist
• Wheels or end trucks
• Electrification system
• Runway or structural components
As the overhead crane becomes older, it becomes more challenging to find the replacement parts – some of the manufacturing companies may no longer be in business, for example, or parts may have become obsolete. In such cases, you need to upgrade or modernise the system.
Inspection-uncovered issues
To increase the life expectancy of your machine, you need to identify different signs of irregularities and wear, and to do that, it would be best to increase the frequency of inspection of your overhead cranes.
During the process, if anyone finds out that the wear is more than expected, you need to look for a replacement part – it can reduce the costly downtime of your overhead cranes while extending the longevity of the equipment.
However, replacing overhead crane parts with more up-to-date components is not just good for your bottom line – it will also help to ensure safety standards and protect your employees.
