With 28 years in the lifting equipment sector, Paul Bartlett, Konecranes director of industrial cranes UK, has seen big changes in the industry. He evaluates current trends in overhead crane technology.
Long gone are the days when overhead cranes were regarded merely as tools for lifting and moving loads from point A to point B. Today’s logistics, industrial and manufacturing operations are increasingly complex, demanding integrated material handling systems, which provide precise and accurate control of loads, improved productivity, inherent safety and maximum uptime.
To this end, crane manufacturers are working more closely than ever with consultants and users to design, manufacture and install solutions which are engineered for specific applications and processes. The result has been the introduction of many new technologies which are helping the evolution of material handling disciplines across all industrial areas.
Customer focused research
Konecranes has adopted an active approach to new product development, liaising with major industrial and manufacturing companies to determine what functions they require for their material handling processes. This investment in research and development has meant that the company now offers lifting equipment systems which go beyond the standards expected by operators and exceed the demands of industry regulations and legislation.
Smart features
In recent years, the company has introduced a range of smart features, aimed at improving safety and promoting performance. In my view, three of these initiatives represent significant advances in the world of material handling.
Hook Centering is designed to eliminate side-pull during lifting, by automatically positioning the bridge and trolley directly over the load. This feature means less wear and tear on crane components, faster load cycle times and ease of operation.
Snag Prevention stops all crane movement if the hook, sling or load are accidentally caught on another object. This reduces the risk of hazardous situations developing while moving loads and helps to prevent damage to the load, crane, other assets, the building structure, and crucially, to personnel.
Sway Control limits how much the load can swing by controlling acceleration and deceleration of the bridge and trolley. This allows faster load handling and more precise positioning, while reducing the risk of damage to the load, crane and surrounding area.
Intelligent crane systems
The company has also been leading the way in the introduction of connectivity and IoT technology to develop intelligent crane systems. The TRUCONNECT platform and online customer portal, yourKONECRANES.com, facilitate the recording and monitoring of a variety of operating parameters.
The data can be assessed by operators and service businesses to provide intelligence on system performance, correct use of equipment, asset condition and predictive maintenance regimes. This technology is not only providing customers with the tools to use their crane systems more smartly and more efficiently, it is also allowing them to schedule maintenance regimes which will provide maximum availability of their cranes for improved productivity..
The future
Over the last 30 years, there have been dramatic advances in crane technology. I see no reason for that trend to change. Operators’ demands for more reliable and productive material handling systems will continue to be matched by the ambition of forward-thinking manufacturers to fulfil these needs.
The next 30 years are likely to create new challenges, including greater environmental pressure on industrial and manufacturing companies. Who knows what heights lifting equipment will have reached by 2050?
01295 676100 | sales.uk@konecranes.com
www.konecranes.co.uk