How to use an Overhead EOT Crane?

Overhead cranes are robust machines that are used to lift and move heavy weight loads. Using an Overhead EOT, Crane needs expertise as it can cause serious unhappenings and may also cause a casualty. Although following the given instructions and safety tips, one can avoid these dangers, but before that, we should know the types of overhead cranes-

Types of Overhead EOT Cranes

Single Girder EOT Cranes: A single girder crane is a crane that consists of one main bridge and is much lighter than a double girder in construction. As such, it is a perfect option when you need a crane for lighter applications. The major parts of the single girder cranes are an electrical hoist, the main bridge, and the end carriages.

Double Girder EOT Cranes: Double girder cranes are used for operations that need higher load-carrying work. These cranes come with two main bridges which make them much more powerful and robust in structure. Manufactured to help in heavy-duty operations, these overhead cranes include great aesthetics and worth when you compare them to single girder cranes.

Instructions for overhead EOT Crane operation

• Crane capacity- Before you start the operation of any crane, you should know the load capacity of the crane. Any loads that are more than the given load capacity of the crane shouldn’t be lifted. Check the hoist brakes, and if they show incapability to hold the load, slowly lower the load, report the condition instantly and don’t operate it until repairs have been done.
• Daily Inspection- A daily inspection of the machine is a must before crane operation and shouldn't be operated if any part needs repair or maintenance. To check the crane, move it in all directions to ensure smooth movement. Keep your ears on for unfamiliar sounds and reinstate worn parts in no time.
• No loose parts- Remove any loose components or accessories prior to lifting your load. The hoisting ropes and sling should be free of slack, and the material should be properly fixed in the hook’s saddle.
• Stop the crane fully- It is necessary to be familiar with every control of the crane, particularly how to stop it when it is an emergency. That can be done frequently by activating an Emeergencyswitch, which should be under reach and in working condition. Controls should be properly marked as to their function.
• Be ready for an emergency- Operators and site workers must know what to do in the condition of mechanical, electrical, or power failures. Processes should be executed for recovering an operator from a cabin when there is an emergency. All cabins mandatorily need to carry fire extinguishers.
• Shutdown when you finish operation- Ensure you switch all controls to the “Off” mode before exiting the operator cabin. Also, make sure you have removed the load hanging on the hooks of the crane, hoist all hooks to a mid-position and place it at a specified site.

Safety tips for overhead crane operation

1. Before use, make sure the crane is the right one for the planned hoisting task. Ensure it has appropriate travel, lift, and capacity.
2. Before loading, ensure the load weight. Inspect the capacity of all equipment and components, including the hardware, rope, and slings.
3. Choose the right sling for every lift. Before using the slings and other rigging hardware check for wear, stretch, or other damage. Do not use damaged slings. Apply softeners around sharp corners.
4. While communicating with a crane operator, ensure clear agreed-upon signals are exchanged. Except for the stop signal, the crane operator must have instructions from only one person – a designated signaler. Where a remote controller or wired is utilized, the operator should become familiar with all of its functionalities before lifting the load.
5. Warn all workers and other people in the load lift area before you start the operation of the lift. Make sure that the way of the load is clear of persons and hindrances. Do not lift loads over anyone. Place the crane hoist in the centre over the load before hoisting to avoid swinging the load.
6. Ensure you are using unused sling legs. Do not leave loose materials or drag slings on a load being hoisted.
7. Keep fingers and hands from being trapped when slack is removed from a sling. Keep distance when the lift is started.
8. Walk forward of the load during travel and inform people to remain away from the crane. Use a tagline or quote to avoid rotation or other uncontrolled motion. Raise the load only as high as essential to clear objects. Do not ride on the load or hook.

LOADMATE always loves to educate its customer using overhead EOT cranes, and also wants to ensure that the operation of the cranes goes smoothly and safely. Happy Crane Operating !!