Cranes and Slings 1
Cranes and Slings 1
AND
SLINGS
Presented by Group 4
INTRODUCTION TO CRANES
What are Cranes?
• Definition
• Types
• Applications
• Advantages
• Disadvantages
Crane Components Diagram
Safe Crane Operation
WHAT ARE CRANES?
Definitions:
Cranes are powerful machines designed for lifting and
moving heavy objects. They employ a system of levers, pulleys,
and motors to hoist and maneuver loads, often using a long arm
or boom to reach and position them. Cranes are indispensable in
various industries, including construction, manufacturing,
shipping, and logistics, where they play a crucial role in handling
large and heavy materials. Types of cranes include tower cranes,
mobile cranes, and overhead cranes, each suited for different
applications and environments. Their versatility and strength
make cranes essential tools for efficient and safe handling of
heavy loads.
TYPES OF CRANES
Tower cranes are commonly used in a variety of construction projects, particularly those involving tall buildings and
large structures. Here are some of their key applications:
• High-Rise Building Construction: Tower cranes are essential for lifting and placing concrete, steel
beams, and other materials during the construction of skyscrapers and high-rise buildings. Their ability to reach
great heights and maneuver heavy loads makes them ideal for these projects.
• Bridge Construction: Tower cranes are used for lifting and positioning structural components, such as
beams, girders, and deck panels, during the construction of bridges. Their ability to work over large areas and
handle substantial loads makes them suitable for this type of project.
• Infrastructure Projects: Tower cranes are employed in the construction of dams, power plants, and other
large infrastructure projects. They are used for lifting heavy equipment, materials, and prefabricated components.
• Industrial Construction: Tower cranes are also utilized in the construction of factories, warehouses, and
other industrial facilities. They are used for lifting and placing prefabricated components, machinery, and other
heavy equipment.
ADVANTAGES OF TOWER CRANES
• High Lifting Capacity: Tower cranes are capable of lifting incredibly heavy loads, surpassing the
capacity of most other crane types. This makes them ideal for handling large structural components,
prefabricated sections, and heavy machinery.
• Exceptional Height Reach: Tower cranes can reach impressive heights, making them indispensable
for constructing skyscrapers and other tall structures. Their ability to lift materials to great heights significantly
reduces the need for manual labor and scaffolding.
• Excellent Stability: Tower cranes are securely anchored to the ground, providing exceptional stability
even in challenging weather conditions. This makes them reliable for lifting heavy loads without the risk of
tipping or instability.
• Increased Efficiency: Tower cranes can move materials quickly and efficiently around a construction
site, significantly reducing the time and effort required for manual handling. This translates to faster project
completion and lower labor costs.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Despite the initial cost of renting or purchasing a tower crane, they can ultimately
save money by speeding up construction processes and reducing the need for manual labor.
DISADVANTAGES OF TOWER CRANES
• High Cost: Tower cranes are a significant investment, both in terms of purchase price and rental fees. This
can be a major hurdle for smaller construction companies or projects with limited budgets.
• Space Requirements: Tower cranes require a considerable amount of space for assembly, operation,
and dismantling. This may not be feasible on smaller construction sites or in densely populated urban areas.
• Complex Installation: Setting up and dismantling tower cranes is a complex and time-consuming
process that requires specialized equipment and skilled personnel. This adds to the overall project cost and can
delay the start of construction.
• High Maintenance Costs: Tower cranes require regular maintenance to ensure safe and efficient
operation. This includes inspections, repairs, and lubrication, which can add to the overall cost of using them.
• Safety Risks: While tower cranes are designed with safety features, they can pose safety risks to both
workers and the public if not operated properly. This emphasizes the importance of having trained professionals
managing the crane and adhering to strict safety protocols.
TOWER
CRANE
DIAGRAM
PARTS OF A TOWER CRANE
1. Foundation: is the base of the crane, providing stability and support. It can be fixed (concrete or steel) or mobile
(wheels or tracks) depending on the crane type. It anchors the crane to the ground, preventing it from tipping or moving
during operation.
2. Tower / Mast: The vertical structure that supports the boom and provides the crane's height. It's made of strong,
lightweight materials and can be adjusted in length for different job requirements.
3. Turntable: A rotating platform that allows the crane to swivel 360 degrees, enabling it to position the load in any
direction within its reach.
4. Counter Jib: A counterbalance arm positioned on the opposite side of the boom on a tower crane. Its primary
function is to provide stability and prevent the crane from tipping over when lifting heavy loads.
5. Counterweights: Heavy weights positioned on the crane to balance the load and prevent tipping, ensuring
stability during lifting operations.
6. Main Winch and Motors: The main winch is a powerful motor-driven drum that winds the lifting cable,
providing the force to lift and lower the load. It's the heart of the crane's lifting system. The motors are connected to the
winch, providing the necessary power to drive the lifting operation.
7. Rear Pendant: A control panel that hangs from the rear of the tower crane's mast. It houses controls for the
crane's luffing (adjusting the boom angle) and slewing (rotating the crane). It's often used by a rigger or ground crew to
assist the crane operator with precise positioning of the load.
PARTS OF A TOWER CRANE
8. Tower Peak / Apex: The highest point of the tower crane, where the boom is supported and the wire
rope passes from the hoist to the hook.
9. Fore Pendant: Another control panel, but it hangs from the front of the tower crane's mast, closer to the
boom. It typically provides controls for the hoist (lifting and lowering the load), trolley (moving the load along
the boom), and sometimes additional luffing controls. It's primarily used by the crane operator to control the
lifting and movement of the load.
10. Trolley : A movable carriage that travels along the boom of a tower crane. Its main function is to move
the load horizontally along the boom, allowing for precise placement of the load within the crane's reach.
11. Hook Block: A system of sheaves (grooved wheels) and a hook that attaches to the end of the boom. It's
used to change the direction of the lifting cable, allowing for smoother and more efficient lifting. It also helps
distribute the load evenly across the lifting cable.
12. Jib: The jib is an extension that attaches to the boom, increasing the crane's reach and allowing it to lift
loads in areas further away from the crane's base.
13. Operator's Cab: The control center of the crane, containing levers, switches, and buttons that allow
the operator to control the crane's movements and lifting operations.
TYPES OF CRANES
2. MOBILE CRANES
- versatile, self-propelled
lifting equipment used in
various industries, including
construction, manufacturing,
and more, that can easily
move and lift heavy loads.
APPLICATIONS
Mobile cranes are incredibly versatile machines, making them valuable for a wide range of projects and industries.
Here are some of their most common applications:
• Limited Lifting Capacity: Mobile cranes generally have lower lifting capacities compared to fixed
cranes, which may restrict their use in heavy industrial applications.
• Stability Issues: Mobile cranes can be less stable than fixed cranes, especially when lifting heavy loads or
operating on uneven terrain.
MOBILE
CRANE
DIAGRAM
PARTS OF A MOBILE CRANE
1. Carrier: The portion of the crane located below the turntable bearing.
2. Operator’s Cab: A housing that covers the operator’s station.
3. Outrigger: An extendable supporting device used to level the crane and increase stability. rotating platform that
allows the crane to swivel 360 degrees, enabling it to position the load in any direction within its reach.
4. Outrigger Float or Outrigger Jack: The hydraulic cylinder on the outrigger beam which extends
vertically to raise and lower the crane for leveling.
5. Counterweights: Weight used to supplement the weight of the crane in providing stability for lifting loads.
6. Boom Hinge Pin: This is a critical pin that connects the main boom section to the base of the crane. It allows
the boom to pivot and extend outwards, increasing the crane's reach
7. Base or Main Section of Boom: This is the largest and most substantial section of the boom, forming the
foundation for the telescoping sections and providing structural support.
PARTS OF A MOBILE CRANE
8. 4th, 3rd, 2nd, & 1st Telescoping Sections: These are the sections of the boom that extend out
from the base section. Each section telescopes (slides) out in sequence to extend the boom's length, allowing the
crane to reach farther. The numbering system (4th, 3rd, etc.) indicates the order in which the sections extend, with
the 4th section being the closest to the base and the 1st section being the furthest out.
9. 5th Telescoping Section: This is an optional section that can be added to some mobile cranes to
further extend the boom's reach.
10. Main Boom Head: This is the end of the boom where the hook block is attached.
11. Main Boom Tip Sheave: This is a grooved wheel located at the end of the boom, where the main
load line (the lifting cable) passes through. It helps guide the cable and reduce friction during lifting.
12. Main Load Line: This is the primary lifting cable that connects the hoist to the hook block. It carries
the weight of the load being lifted.
13. Boom Hoist or Lift Cylinder: This is a hydraulic cylinder located near the base of the boom,
providing the force to extend and retract the telescoping sections.
TYPES OF CRANES
3. OVERHEAD
CRANES
- also known as a bridge
crane, is a lifting device used
in industrial environments to
move heavy materials
horizontally and vertically,
often along a fixed path
above the floor.
APPLICATIONS
Overhead cranes, also known as bridge cranes, are essential pieces of equipment in many industrial settings. They
are designed to lift and move heavy loads across a defined workspace, often within a factory or warehouse. Here are
some of their most common applications:
Manufacturing :
• Material Handling: Overhead cranes are used to transport raw materials, components, and finished
products within manufacturing facilities. This includes moving heavy machinery, large pieces of equipment, and
bulky materials between different production areas.
• Assembly Lines: Overhead cranes are crucial for lifting and positioning heavy components during the
assembly of large products, such as vehicles, aircraft, and machinery. They allow for efficient and precise
movement of parts along the assembly line.
• Machine Tending: Overhead cranes are used to load and unload materials from machines, such as stamping
presses, furnaces, and welding stations. They help to automate these processes, increasing efficiency and safety.
APPLICATIONS
Warehousing and Distribution:
• Loading and Unloading: Overhead cranes are used to load and unload cargo from trucks, trains, and ships
in warehouses and distribution centers. They can handle heavy pallets, containers, and other large items.
• Storage and Retrieval: Overhead cranes are used to move goods between storage areas and shipping
docks, facilitating efficient storage and retrieval of materials.
• Inventory Management: Overhead cranes can be used to move inventory around the warehouse, making
it easier to manage and track stock levels.
Other Applications:
• Construction: Overhead cranes are used in construction projects for lifting and placing heavy structural
components, such as steel beams and prefabricated modules.
• Maintenance and Repair: Overhead cranes are used to lift and position heavy equipment for
maintenance and repair tasks in factories, power plants, and other industrial facilities.
• Scrap Yards and Recycling: Overhead cranes are used to handle and sort scrap metal and other
recyclable materials.
ADVANTAGES OF OVERHEAD CRANES
• High Lifting Capacity: Tower cranes are capable of lifting incredibly heavy loads, surpassing the
capacity of most other crane types. This makes them ideal for handling large structural components,
prefabricated sections, and heavy machinery.
• Exceptional Height Reach: Tower cranes can reach impressive heights, making them indispensable
for constructing skyscrapers and other tall structures. Their ability to lift materials to great heights significantly
reduces the need for manual labor and scaffolding.
• Excellent Stability: Tower cranes are securely anchored to the ground, providing exceptional stability
even in challenging weather conditions. This makes them reliable for lifting heavy loads without the risk of
tipping or instability.
• Increased Efficiency: Tower cranes can move materials quickly and efficiently around a construction
site, significantly reducing the time and effort required for manual handling. This translates to faster project
completion and lower labor costs.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Despite the initial cost of renting or purchasing a tower crane, they can ultimately
save money by speeding up construction processes and reducing the need for manual labor.
DISADVANTAGES OF OVERHEAD CRANES
• High Cost: Tower cranes are a significant investment, both in terms of purchase price and rental fees. This
can be a major hurdle for smaller construction companies or projects with limited budgets.
• Space Requirements: Tower cranes require a considerable amount of space for assembly, operation,
and dismantling. This may not be feasible on smaller construction sites or in densely populated urban areas.
• Complex Installation: Setting up and dismantling tower cranes is a complex and time-consuming
process that requires specialized equipment and skilled personnel. This adds to the overall project cost and can
delay the start of construction.
• High Maintenance Costs: Tower cranes require regular maintenance to ensure safe and efficient
operation. This includes inspections, repairs, and lubrication, which can add to the overall cost of using them.
• Safety Risks: While tower cranes are designed with safety features, they can pose safety risks to both
workers and the public if not operated properly. This emphasizes the importance of having trained professionals
managing the crane and adhering to strict safety protocols.
OVERHEAD
CRANE
DIAGRAM
PARTS OF AN OVERHEAD CRANE
1. Bridge Idler Wheel: These wheels are located on the underside of the bridge, running along the runway rails.
They support the weight of the bridge and allow it to move smoothly along the runway.
2. End Truck: A structural assembly located at each end of the bridge. It houses the bridge drive wheels, idler wheels,
and other components that allow the bridge to travel along the runway.
3. Runway Beam: The runway beam is a horizontal structure that supports the bridge and allows it to travel along its
length. It's typically made of strong steel and is mounted to the building or structure where the crane operates.
4. Bridge Drive Wheel: These wheels are powered by electric motors and are responsible for propelling the bridge
along the runway. They are usually located on the end trucks.
5. End Truck Bumper: These are rubber or steel bumpers attached to the end trucks. They absorb impact and
prevent damage when the bridge reaches the end of its travel.
6. Runway Rail: The runway rail is a steel track that runs along the underside of the runway beam. The bridge wheels
ride on this track, guiding the bridge's movement.
7. Bridge Drive: This is the system that powers the bridge drive wheels, allowing the bridge to travel along the
runway. It typically consists of electric motors, gears, and control systems
8. Hook Block: A system of sheaves (grooved wheels) and a hook that attaches to the lifting cable. It's used to
redirect the lifting cable and allow for smooth and efficient lifting
PARTS OF AN OVERHEAD CRANE
9. Wire Rope: This is a strong, flexible cable made of multiple strands of steel wire. It's used to connect the hoist to the
hook block and lift the load. It's designed to withstand heavy loads and repeated lifting cycles.
10. Pendant: A handheld control device that hangs from the hoist. It contains buttons, switches, and levers that allow
the operator to control the hoist's movements (lifting, lowering, and trolley travel).
11. Pendant Cable: This is a flexible cable that connects the pendant to the hoist. It carries the electrical signals from
the pendant to the hoist's control system, allowing the operator to control the hoist's movements.
12. Pendant Feston: This is a flexible chain or cable that supports the pendant and allows it to move freely along the
pendant track. It helps prevent the pendant cable from tangling or getting caught on obstructions
13. Trolley Feston: This is a similar type of chain or cable that supports the trolley cable and allows it to move freely
along the trolley conductor track. It prevents the trolley cable from tangling or getting caught on obstructions.
14. Trolley Drive: This is the system that powers the trolley's movement along the bridge. It typically consists of
electric motors, gears, and control systems.
15. Trolley Conductor Track: This is a track mounted on the underside of the bridge, providing a path for the
trolley cable. It allows the trolley to move smoothly along the bridge and receive power from the trolley drive system.
16. Pendant Track: This is a track mounted on the bridge, providing a path for the pendant to move along. It allows
the operator to move the pendant along the bridge and access different control points.
PARTS OF AN OVERHEAD CRANE
17. Downshop Conductors: These are cables that run from the power source to the trolley. They provide
electrical power to the trolley drive motor and other electrical components.
18. Drive Girder: This is a strong, rigid structure that supports the bridge and the trolley drive system. It's typically
made of steel and is mounted to the runway beam.
19. Trolley End Stop: This is a bumper or stop mounted at the end of the trolley's travel path. It prevents the trolley
from running off the end of the bridge and prevents damage.
20. Bridge Rail: This is the track that the bridge wheels run on, guiding the bridge's movement along the runway.
21. Idler Girder: This is a supporting structure that helps to keep the runway beam aligned and prevent it from
sagging. It's typically located between the main girders.
22. Hoist: This is the motor-driven system that lifts and lowers the load. It's connected to the hook block and uses a
wire rope to raise and lower the load.
23. Trolley Frame: This is the structural frame that supports the trolley's components, including the wheels, motors,
and cables.
24. Upper Block: This is a pulley system located at the top of the hoist, changing the direction of the lifting cable and
increasing the lifting force.
25. Trolley Bumper: This is a bumper attached to the trolley, preventing it from colliding with the end of the bridge
or other obstructions.
SAFE CRANE OPERATION
• Pre-operation checks (visual inspection, load capacity, etc.)
• Proper rigging techniques
• Communication between crane operator and ground crew
• Awareness of surroundings and potential hazards
• Following all safety regulations
PRE-OPERATION CHECKS
Note: "Load Capacity: Choose a sling with a working load limit (WLL) that exceeds the weight of the load. A sling rated for
5,000 lbs should never be used to lift a 10,000-lb load."
2. MATERIAL COMPATIBILITY
CHAIN SLINGS
- are known for their
exceptional strength
and durability. They're
ideal for lifting heavy,
rigid loads like steel
beams, concrete blocks,
and machinery
Chain slings are
resistant to abrasion
and wear, making them
suitable for harsh
environments.
2. MATERIAL COMPATIBILITY
WIRE ROPE SLINGS
- are flexible and
adaptable, making
them suitable for lifting
loads with irregular
shapes or contours
They're often used for
lifting pipes, beams,
and large machinery
components.
2. MATERIAL COMPATIBILITY
SYNTHETIC WEB SLINGS
- are lightweight and
easy to handle, making
them suitable for a
wide range of lifting
applications.
They're often used for
lifting general cargo,
pallets, and smaller
loads where abrasion
resistance is important.
ADVANTAGES OF CHAIN SLINGS
• Exceptional Strength: Chain slings are known for their high tensile strength and durability. They can
handle heavy loads and withstand harsh environments.
• Resistance to Wear: They are resistant to abrasion and wear, making them suitable for lifting rough or
abrasive loads.
• Temperature Resistance: Chain slings can withstand high temperatures, making them suitable for use
in certain industrial settings.