Pre-purchase inspections for used overhead cranes
When buying a used overhead crane, it’s essential to thoroughly inspect several key components to ensure it is safe, functional, and meets your specific requirements. Here’s a checklist of items to check carefully:
- Structural Integrity:
- Examine the main structural components such as the bridge, runway, and columns for signs of wear, damage, or rust.
- Check for any signs of deformation, cracks, or weld defects in the crane’s structure.
- Ensure that the crane’s structural components are properly aligned.
- Electrical Components:
- Inspect the electrical wiring, cables, and connections for wear, fraying, or damage.
- Test the control panel and electrical controls for proper functioning, including pendant controls and push buttons.
- Check for any exposed or loose wires.
- Motors and Gearboxes:
- Examine the condition of motors and gearboxes for leaks, unusual noises, or excessive wear.
- Ensure that motors and gearboxes are securely mounted.
- Hoist and Trolley Mechanism:
- Test the hoist and trolley for smooth and precise operation.
- Check the condition of the hoist’s wire rope or chain for wear and proper reeving.
- Inspect hooks, blocks, and load-bearing components for signs of wear or damage.
- Brakes and Safety Features:
- Verify the functionality of all safety features, including emergency stop buttons, limit switches, and overload protection devices.
- Check that the brakes engage and disengage properly.
- Rails and Runway:
- Inspect the runway rails for wear, deformation, and alignment issues.
- Ensure that the crane’s wheels or rollers move freely along the runway.
- Documentation and Maintenance Records:
- Request maintenance and inspection records from the previous owner or seller.
- Verify that the crane has been regularly maintained and serviced according to manufacturer guidelines.
- Load Capacity:
- Determine the crane’s rated load capacity and ensure it meets your specific lifting requirements.
- Manufacturer and Model Information:
- Confirm the crane’s make, model, and year of manufacture.
- Check if spare parts are readily available for the specific crane model.
- Safety Standards Compliance:
- Ensure that the crane complies with relevant safety standards and regulations in your region, such as OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards in the United States.
- Load Testing:
- Consider conducting a load test to assess the crane’s performance under its rated load capacity.
- Professional Inspection:
- If you’re not experienced with crane inspections, it’s advisable to hire a qualified crane inspector or engineer to thoroughly examine the crane and provide a detailed report.
Remember that the condition of the used overhead crane and its components can greatly impact its safety and longevity. Prioritize safety and functionality when making your decision, and if necessary, budget for potential repairs or upgrades to bring the crane up to your required standards.
Do you need a pre-disassembly overhead crane inspection for purchase process?
MEVAS is performing inspections for all kind of heavy equipment including cranes. Among our services we offer also an inspection for used overhead cranes before the disassembly starts. Our inspector goes step-by-step through his inspection checklist for overhead-cranes. All items are checked and condition noted.
An additional service can be the labelling of all components for assembly after shipment. All parts are marked to facilitate reassembly. Furthermore, the loading can be monitored. This ensures that all parts are delivered.