What’s Involved in the Manufacturing of Cranes?
Understanding how cranes are manufactured and the materials used can help you to better assess if a piece of equipment is up to standard. Of course, the manufacturing process isn’t exactly straight-forward and takes years of experience to truly master. However, in this article, Surf City Cranes has attempted to simplify the crane manufacturing process so you can get a greater insight into the backbone of the construction industry.
How are cranes manufactured?
Physics and engineering go into the making of every crane; manufacturers must be able to balance the weight of these construction giants. The entire process is extremely complex, but we’ve outlined some of the main steps involved in the manufacturing of cranes below:
- Molten steel is transformed into the separate parts of the crane using a range of processes that are chosen depending on the individual part. For example, high pressure rollers are commonly used to create the steel plates and sheets.
- Precision cutting tools are then used to accurately shape and size each part.
- When it’s time to compile the pieces of the crane together, this will usually take place in a separate manufacturing factory, where experts will use joining techniques such as welding and bolting.
- Once complete, the cranes are tested vigorously to ensure they meet the high quality demands of the construction industry.
The materials used for the process
Cranes are subjected to huge amounts of pressure and must be built to carry excessive weight, so it should come as no surprise that materials used must be strong and resistant to corrosive elements.
The main body of cranes is usually manufactured with high strength low alloy steel (SHLA), which uses hardening elements to add the necessary levels of strength. SHLA is beneficial because it’s lightweight and energy efficient, whilst maintaining the ability to lift and hold heavy items.
A variety of other materials are used, with exact specifications depending on the crane’s purpose. The tyres of mobile cranes may be made from natural or synthetic rubber, and other important structural components are often made from a range of metals such as bronze and aluminium.
How to spot a crane that’s built to last
It’s essential that cranes are manufactured to high quality standards to maximise their durability and keep construction sites and the workers within them safe.
Choose a crane hire company that places high importance on the maintenance of their cranes, so they continue to operate at peak performance and capability – and to reduce the risk of a disruptive on-site breakdown. Feel free to enquire about the machine’s history and usage, and ask to take it for a test-drive if necessary. If you’re unsure about how to ensure the quality of a crane, have a professional carry out an inspection.
Of course, the best way to guarantee the quality and durability of a crane is to choose a reputable crane hire company.
Contact Surf City Cranes
Rest assured that your construction project will run smoothly and efficiently by working with the experts in crane rental in Brisbane, Gold Coast Northern NSW. We’d be happy to answer any questions you may have, so call our team on 0421 665 654 (toll free) or 0402 269 535, or email info@surfcitycranes.com.au.
