Overhead cranes, also known as bridge cranes, are used to lift and move heavy loads in various industries, such as manufacturing, construction, mining, and warehousing. The crane can lift and lower the load using a hook, magnet, or other attachment. Overhead crane parts are the essential components that make up the structure and function of an overhead crane. Overhead cranes are lifting devices that consist of several components that work together to move heavy loads. The main components of an overhead crane are the bridge, the trolley, the hoist, the end trucks, the runway, and the electrical system. Each component has a specific function and role in the operation of the crane. However, not all overhead cranes are the same. Depending on the application, you may need different types of overhead crane parts and components to ensure optimal performance, safety, and efficiency.
Types of Bridge Crane Components
Bridge: The bridge is the horizontal beam that supports the hoist and allows it to move along the length of the work area. The bridge can be either single-girder or double-girder, depending on the load capacity and span required. Single-girder bridges have one beam that supports the hoist, while double-girder bridges have two beams that support the hoist on both sides.
Hoist: The hoist is the device that lifts and lowers the load using a wire rope or chain. The hoist can be either electric or manual, depending on the power source and control method. electric hoists use an electric motor to drive a drum that winds or unwinds the wire rope or chain. Manual hoists use a hand-operated lever or wheel to pull or release the wire rope or chain.
Trolley: The trolley is the device that carries the hoist along the bridge. The trolley can be either motorized or manual, depending on the speed and precision required. Motorized trolleys use an electric motor to drive wheels that move along a rail or track on the bridge. Manual trolleys use a hand-operated push-pull rod or chain to move along a rail or track on the bridge.
End trucks: The end trucks are the devices that connect the bridge to the runway beams. The runway beams are the horizontal beams that support the bridge and allow it to move along the width of the work area. The end trucks can be either fixed or adjustable, depending on the alignment and levelling required. Fixed-end trucks have rigid connections to the bridge and runway beams, while adjustable-end trucks have flexible connections that allow for some adjustment of the bridge position.
The runway is the structure that supports and guides the bridge. The runway consists of rails, beams, columns, and brackets. The runway can be mounted on the floor, on the wall, or the ceiling, depending on the space and layout of the facility.
The electrical system provides power and control for the crane. The electrical system consists of wires, cables, conduits, switches, fuses, circuit breakers, transformers, motors, and controllers. The electrical system can be wired or wireless, depending on the design and configuration of the crane.
