Signs Your Bridge Crane Needs Maintenance

Here are some common signs that your bridge crane in Glasgow needs maintenance. First, the bridge crane’s electrical components could be suffering from corrosion. While this may seem harmless, this can lead to instability, particularly if the crane is in an area that receives a lot of rain. Corrosion can also lead to drifting or broken chain links. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to have it inspected.

warehouse factory jib crane

Corrosion

Overhead cranes can have intermittent control issues because of corrosion. Corrosion can cause instability on the electrical components. Carbon graphite dust on the electrical components can cause a short circuit. If the carbon graphite dust is allowed to build up, it can cause an electrical short and cause the crane to not operate correctly. To solve the problem, the operator should have the crane’s electrical systems checked.

Leaks

If your crane begins to drift, it is probably due to a leak. Check all the hoses and cylinders for leaks and check for any distortions. These can be warning signs that the cylinders are about to fail. You can check the cylinders by inspecting the outer covering for blistering or deformation. Hydraulic and pneumatic cylinder leaks may also cause drifting. Leaks may also damage the eyes.

Broken or crushed chain links

Overtime, heavy loads can wear down the chain, crushing the chain links and weakening the entire structure of the hoist and crane. Detecting these issues early is the best way to avoid accidents and maximize the longevity of your overhead crane. Broken or crushed chain links are more difficult to detect, but they are a sure sign that your crane needs maintenance. Broken and crushed chain links can both result in a need for crane maintenance.

Lack of connectivity

When you see an empty icon next to the word “Service,” there’s a good chance your bridge crane in Glasgow is in need of maintenance. While some of these indicators are common, some are not. Depending on the type of crane and its age, the icon could mean a variety of problems. A faulty contact or a faulty circuit could also mean your crane needs service. Lack of connectivity can also mean the operator has disconnected the pendant from the hoist, which may be due to a loose wire or a broken control. Another sign of a problem is if the operator’s controls are not responsive to his or her input. Moreover, a blown fuse or any other indication of a faulty circuit could indicate a major problem that needs to be addressed.

Cost of maintenance

Keeping an eye on the cost of maintenance for a crane is a critical part of its overall lifecycle. A properly maintained crane will require fewer repairs and a lower overall cost of ownership. Not only that, but a well-maintained crane is easier to use and will last longer. The following are a few ways to cut costs on crane maintenance. Keep these tips in mind when budgeting for your crane.

Replacement parts are difficult to source

Crane replacement parts are not always easy to find. Older cranes can be difficult to source, as parts may be obsolete and cost a fortune. However, there are some crane repair services in Glasgow available that can reverse engineer and rebuild older components. These services are available, but they come with significant costs. Many of the replacement parts for cranes are custom-designed, making it even more challenging to source. Reverse engineering can be a viable solution for these problems, but it is not recommended for every crane.