In the warehouses of various types of companies, you can find a variety of devices designed to perform activities that require enormous strength. One of them are gantries and cranes – without them it would not be able to function, among others transport or automotive industry. What exactly are these machines used for and what are the differences between them?
Crane and overhead crane work – more common features?
At the outset, it is worth noting that the load for both devices is moved in three planes. The crane has a range of motion around its axis (pole) and it can be up to 360 degrees, but it is often limited. It is a great device that will work in the replacement of various materials during production, feeding elements (such as sheets), and will also be helpful in renovation works.
The cranes serve a “rectangular” shaped space and their operation covers a larger area than in the case of cranes. Overhead cranes can cover entire production halls, which greatly facilitates the transport of goods. They are most often used in the industrial, furniture, automotive and logistics industries.
Construction of the crane
Contrary to appearances, the crane does not have a complicated structure – it consists of a pole (column) and the boom itself responsible for the rotation. At the end of this element you can find a tractor with which you can transport the load to a given place. The simple structure of this machine is its great advantage – maintenance and repair of the crane do not require the use of expensive, specialized equipment. Cranes are most often used on construction sites.
Crane structure
The crane structure consists of a load-bearing part (bridge) that moves along specially designated tracks. An equally important element is the lifting unit as well as the track. The gantry crane speeds up reloading and is mainly used in warehouses, ports or production halls.
As you can see, the construction of an overhead crane and a crane is completely different. The only common feature between these devices is a lifting device that can be suspended from the machine.
Health and safety rights and rules
Both of these devices (overhead traveling cranes and cranes) are usually subject to full technical supervision. In order to be able to operate them, you must obtain the necessary authorizations – without them, it is forbidden to perform any maintenance or assembly work on the device. After familiarizing yourself with the health and safety rules, you can safely start work. However, it is the employer’s responsibility to systematically report technical inspections and any defects to persons authorized to perform maintenance work on this type of machines.
