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Picking the Right Overhead Crane Part 1: Applications

There are four primary categories of overhead cranes: bridge cranes, gantry cranes, workstation cranes, and jib cranes. So which one is right for you?  In our next two entries, we will examine how to choose an overhead crane according to application and facility.  By choosing an overhear crane according to application, you will want to Starting with an honest evaluation of your material handling needs is a fundamental part of selecting the right system. Choosing a crane that is inappropriate for your application could be a dangerous, inefficient, and costly mistake. Consider the needs your crane will need to address today and in the future. Capacity: In other words, just how strong does the crane need to be?  What weight to you need your overhead crane to carry? Pushing an overhead crane to do more than it is made to do can be quite dangerous.  Features: Overhead cranes tend to have a variety of options – and EMH can even engineer some custom options onto into your overhead crane. We all love features and shiny objects, but before you decide that you “need” a component or feature, consider your application and facility needs Materials: While most overhead cranes are steel, there are aluminum solutions if you need something lighter.  While an aluminum gantry crane is for lightweight applications and portability, a steel gantry crane will provide a higher load rated capacity and is less portable. Controls: How will you operate and control your overhead crane? Electrical control systems are both more accurate and more expensive. And if you get motorized controls, you will definitely need speed control. You will also want to consider operator controls to increase worker safety and improve efficiency. A radio-control on your overhead crane will allow it to be controlled remotely. 
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