how overhead crane works

Overhead cranes are commonly used for lifting heavy loads in various industries, such as manufacturing, construction, and logistics. These cranes are designed to move materials horizontally and vertically, allowing for efficient and safe lifting operations. In this article, we will explore how overhead cranes work and the different types of cranes used in industry today.

Components of an Overhead Crane

An overhead crane consists of several parts, including the bridge, trolley, hoist, and runway. The bridge is the main component of the crane, which spans the width of the working area and moves the trolley back and forth. The trolley, in turn, moves the hoist up and down the bridge based on the operator's input. The hoist is the lifting component of the crane that connects to the load and raises or lowers it. Finally, the runway is the track on which the crane moves along, allowing it to position the load where it is needed.

The Working Principle of an Overhead Crane

Overhead cranes work on the principle of mechanical advantage. The hoist, trolley, and bridge work together to multiply the operator's effort, making it possible to lift loads that would be impossible using manual labor alone. The electric power supplied to the crane motor is used to drive the movement of the bridge, trolley, and hoist. The crane operator uses a control station to direct the movement of the crane, controlling the speed and direction of the various components.

Types of Overhead Cranes

There are many different types of overhead cranes, each designed to meet specific lifting requirements. Some of the most common types of overhead cranes include:1. Single girder overhead crane – This type of crane consists of a single bridge beam supported by two end trucks. It is suitable for light to moderate lifting operations.2. Double girder overhead crane – This crane has two bridge girders supported by four end trucks, providing greater load capacity and higher lifting height than a single girder crane.3. Gantry crane – This crane is similar to an overhead crane but operates on rails on the ground rather than from overhead. It is suitable for outdoor operations and lifting heavy loads.4. Jib crane – This type of crane consists of a vertical mast that supports a horizontal boom with a hoist at the end. It is useful for lifting loads in a limited range of motion.

Conclusion

In summary, overhead cranes are vital tools for efficiently and safely lifting heavy loads in various industries. They consist of several components that work together to move loads horizontally and vertically, operated from a control station by an operator. There are different types of overhead cranes, each designed for specific lifting requirements. Understanding how overhead cranes work and their different types will enable us to choose the right crane for the job and use it effectively.