For many industries, overhead cranes are integral to ensuring safety and productivity when heavy loads need to be lifted or repositioned. Boasting power and precision, cranes have revolutionised how various operations are carried out in industries such as construction, manufacturing, shipping and transportation.
However, the key to safety and efficiency when employing an overhead crane is understanding crane capacity and load factors. In other words, the total amount of weight the crane can handle without jeopardising safety. Plus, the factors that contribute towards these limits.
Metreel is a leading supplier of overhead cranes in the UK. While no substitute for consulting the manufacturer guidelines, here is a general overview of how overhead crane capacity and load factors are calculated.
What Is The Capacity Of An Overhead Crane?
When we talk about crane capacity, we want to find out those definite numbers in terms of weight limit and capacity which need to be adhered to at all times.
Overhead crane lifting capacity can be measured in a couple of ways.
Gross capacity – The total amount of weight an overhead crane can lift including the weight of the crane itself along with any materials.
Working load limit (WLL) – Previously known as safe working load (SWL) the WLL calculates the maximum amount of weight that can be safely lifted, once deductions for the crane’s configuration and the weight of lifting accessories have been factored in.
Did you know?: When you browse overhead cranes for sale on our website, we’ll give you a full rundown of specifications including the lifting capacity to guide you.
What Affects Crane Load Factors?
Structural strength – The quality and overall construction of crane components such as the beam, trolley and hoist will impact the ability of the crane to support the rated capacity.
Hoisting speed – Crane hoists allow cranes to safely lift and lower heavy loads. Depending on the speed of the hoist, this can affect the crane’s capacity.
Load swing – Excess movement of a crane load in the form of a crane swing can stress the crane’s structure, which in turn impacts the capacity of the crane.
Crane condition – If a crane is in poor condition, it may not be able to lift loads to its intended capacity. This can also create dangerous conditions for the crane operator if they are unaware of any defaults or worn parts.
Environmental conditions – The weather can affect practically all industrial machinery and materials, and cranes are no exception. Temperature and wind are just two environmental elements that may reduce the safe load limit of a crane.
Metreel – Overhead Cranes UK
Want to find out more about overhead crane capacity and load factors? Metreel is a leading supplier and installer of overhead cranes, meaning we can create a customised solution to fit your business needs.
We’re based in Derbyshire and install our overhead cranes across the UK. To view our full crane specifications, download our product brochure.
Alternatively, if you’re ready to place an order or have any questions, please give us a call on 0115 932 7010 or email us at [email protected].