Cranes are made up of various components that will help to ensure they operate safely; while part of this is of course down to the crane operator, crane components have an integral part to play in crane safety and management. Crane components can be generally split up into eight categories, each of which will contain different types of components to suit various cranes, from goliath cranes to small jibs. If components and parts begin to wear out they need to be replaced before the machinery is used again because otherwise they will be compromising safety. Cranes need to be visually inspected before operation and more detailed examinations need to be carried out too on a regular basis, under LOLER and PUWER.

The components will need to be the right ones for the crane type, as well as for the brand, to ensure perfect compatibility. If unsure, these should always be checked with the crane parts supplier who can give further information regarding parts, compatibility and fitting. They can provide suitable advice on the best parts to use for the crane in question, depending on its brand, its type, its age, its condition and anything else that is necessary to consider.

The different kinds of crane components

Anti-collision systems

If a crane has more than one bridge beam on a track, it is required to have an anti-collision system in place. This is a law, not just a requirement. This type of system is used with overhead gantry cranes and will stop them colliding through two laser projecting sensors and reflector panels. This makes operation safer and it can also prolong the lifespan of the cranes, through one single component.

Inverter drives

These useful crane components are generally used to help increase the lifespan of mechanical components, brakes and gearboxes. Essentially, inverter drives will increase operational speeds gradually to protect these integral parts of operation, much like in a car; this approach will avoid the significant wear on gearboxes that a less measured approach could cause.

Crane controls

These are an integral component because they allow the crane to be operated through the use of a control pendant or a radio remote control system. Any crane control system should be heavy duty and hard wearing, suitable for outdoor use if applicable.

End trucks

These are designed for use with suspension bridge cranes, top running single girder bridge cranes and top running double girder bridge cranes.

Chain hoists and wire rope hoists

These are essentially lifting equipment in their own right but they are often used with cranes. There are various options when choosing hoists that will be compatible with cranes, including increased lifting height, and a variety of lifting capacities. This makes hoists versatile and easier to specify – wire rope hoists and electric chain hoists are available at various price points.

There are, of course, other more specialist crane components. The components required, or that might be added to give certain functionality, will depend entirely on the crane and what it is being used for.