Basic Parts and Functions of a Crane

Cranes are important machines used to lift, move and place heavy loads. There are a number of key parts that make these powerful machines work.

1. Wheels: They are the basic elements that allow cranes to move. Wheels make it easier for cranes to be moved and provide flexibility to the operator. The wheels, which usually move on a rail system, help cranes to adjust the height and angle of the cranes.

2. Pulleys: Sheaves or pulleys are the parts that move the ropes or cables in the crane. The sheaves provide the mechanical advantage needed to lift or lower loads. The ropes are wound on pulleys and, when rotated, allow the loads to move up or down.

3. Hook: The main load carrying apparatus of the crane. The hook is used to lift, carry and place loads. It must have a robust and durable structure to ensure safe transportation of the load.

4. Gear Boxes: Gearboxes are used in cranes to transfer power and control speed. Gearboxes have different gear ratios to adapt the power of the motor to the demands of the load. This allows loads to move at the desired speed and power.

5. Bearings: Bearings, the load carrying elements in cranes, ensure smooth and efficient rotation of the wheels and rollers. They must be robust enough to withstand the weight of the loads and prevent energy loss by reducing friction.

6. Drum Clutches: Drum clutches control the ropes in the hoist. It is used for releasing or retracting the rope. Drum clutches are important to ensure that the load is transported in the desired way and to increase safety.

7. Gear Clutches: Gear clutches connect different parts in the hoist and provide power transmission. These clutches perform lifting and transporting loads by transmitting the rotational motion of the motor to other parts. Gear clutches play an important role in cranes to ensure safe and efficient power transmission.

8. Flexible Clutches: Flexible couplings are fasteners that transmit rotation or motion between different components in the crane. Flexible couplings transfer energy by transmitting the rotational motion of pulleys, gearboxes or motors to other parts. They also absorb vibration and reduce stress caused by misalignments.

9. Shoe Brakes: These are brake systems used to ensure safe stopping on cranes. Shoe brakes stop moving parts and help keep the load in the desired position. These braking systems keep loads under control and reduce safety risks.

10. Disc Brakes: Disc brakes are important braking systems that perform the function of slowing and stopping in cranes. Disc brakes prevent rotational movement by applying pressure on a rotor disk. In this way, loads are stopped at the desired speed and safely.

11. Electro-Hydraulic Propulsion Units: Electro-hydraulic propulsion units enable the generation and control of high forces in cranes. These units enable cranes to lift and transport loads by converting hydraulic pressure into electrical energy. They enable high forces to be applied safely and effectively.

12. Motors: Electric motors are used to move and power the cranes. Motors convert energy into mechanical motion, enabling cranes to lift and move loads. Industrial motors that require high power and durability are generally preferred.

13. Geared Motors: Geared motors are motors that contain gear mechanisms that increase the output torque and decrease the speed of the motor. Geared motors used in cranes are used in applications that require high torque and low speed. This provides the power and control necessary for lifting and transporting loads.

14. Ropes: They are durable and safe materials used to carry loads in cranes. Ropes connect loads to a hook or other load-carrying apparatus and move on pulleys, allowing loads to be lifted and lowered. It is important that they have high strength and durability properties, because ropes must withstand the stress and wear of carrying heavy loads.

15. Buffers: Buffers used in cranes create a protective barrier between the crane and the load by absorbing and reducing the impact in the event of an uncontrolled stop of the load. Buffers are important for the safety of cranes and prevent damage to the load and crane in sudden stops.

16. Lubrication Systems: Lubrication systems are used for proper operation of cranes and to reduce wear. These systems lubricate the moving parts in the crane, reducing friction, preventing wear and extending the life of the parts. Regular maintenance and lubrication improves the performance and reliability of cranes.

17. Inverter: An inverter, an electronic device used in cranes, adjusts motor speed and torque by controlling electric current. This gives crane operators speed and precision control. Inverters are an essential part of modern crane systems that aim to save energy, reduce vibration and provide lower noise levels.

18. Installation Materials: There are different plumbing materials used for the installation and operation of cranes. These materials support the cranes’ electrical, hydraulic or pneumatic systems. Materials such as electrical cables, pipes, hoses and fittings ensure efficient and safe operation of cranes.

19. Lighting Systems: Lighting systems used in cranes are important for the safety and visibility of operations. It is important to provide proper lighting, especially when working at night or in low-light environments. Lighting systems enable operators to see loads accurately and perform operations safely.

20. Limit Switches: Limit switches used in cranes ensure that moving parts stop automatically when they reach certain points. These switches control the height, angle or other parameters of the cranes. Limiter switches ensure that cranes stay within certain limits to ensure safe operation and prevent excessive movements.

21. Overload Detection Systems: Overload detection systems are used to prevent dangerous situations when cranes exceed their load carrying capacity. These systems monitor the carrying capacity of the crane and give a warning or stop the crane from operating when it is overloaded. This is important for safety and prevents damage or accidents when the crane is overloaded.

22. Weighing Systems: Weighing systems used in cranes ensure that loads are weighed accurately. These systems help determine the correct load capacity by measuring the weight of the load. Weighing systems ensure that loads are lifted and transported accurately and also provide an important control in terms of safety.

23. Air Conditioning Units: Used to increase the comfort and productivity of crane operators, air conditioning units control the temperature and humidity levels in crane cabins. Especially when working in hot climates or confined spaces, it is important for operators to have a comfortable working environment. Air conditioning units allow operators to focus and manage crane operations more efficiently.

24. Collision Avoidance Systems: Collision avoidance systems used in cranes take precautions when multiple cranes are operating in the same area or when there is a risk of collision between the crane and other structures. These systems use various sensors and alarm systems to warn or automatically stop the crane in the event of a collision. This is important to ensure the safety of operators and equipment.

25. Cable Chain: Cable chains used in cranes ensure that cables are managed in an organized and safe manner. These chains prevent cables from becoming knotted or loose, reduce wear and provide protection. Cable chains help cranes operate safely and efficiently by keeping cables moving smoothly and minimizing the risk of breakage or damage.

26. Radio Controlled Remote Control: Radio-controlled remote controls allow cranes to be controlled remotely, giving operators flexibility and freedom of movement. They allow operators to remotely manage the crane’s functions and perform operations more easily and safely. Radio-controlled remote controls allow operators to remain in control without being near the crane.

27. PLC (Programmable Logic Controller): PLCs used in cranes provide management of automatic control systems. These programmable logic controllers control the different functions and movements of the cranes.

28. Contactors: Contactors used in cranes act as electromechanical switches used to control high-power circuits. These contactors switch motors on and off, control power circuits and direct electrical current. They help cranes operate efficiently by providing safe and effective control of electrical energy in cranes.

29. Cable Reels: Cable reels used in cranes are used for storing and collecting ropes. These reels ensure that the ropes are neatly wound and stored safely when not in use. Cable reels ensure that ropes are used and stored in an organized manner, increasing the efficiency of cranes and making them easier to maintain.

30. Magnets: Magnets are used in cranes for lifting metal materials. Magnets attract and carry metal loads by creating a strong magnetic field. They are especially effective in lifting ferromagnetic materials such as iron and steel. Magnets are widely used in cranes used in areas such as construction, recycling and metal industry. In this way, material handling operations can be carried out more efficiently and quickly.

31. Controllers: Controllers used to control cranes allow operators to manage the movements of the crane. These controllers are used to control load lifting, lowering, horizontal movement and other functions of the crane. Controllers allow the operator to precisely direct the crane’s functions through buttons, joysticks or other interfaces. This makes crane operations easier and more controllable.

32. High Voltage Cables: Some large cranes utilize high voltage cabling systems. These cabling systems are designed to transmit high voltage power to the moving parts of the crane. High voltage cabling provides efficient energy transfer and supports the safe and efficient operation of cranes capable of handling large loads.

33. Scraper Brakes: Scraper brakes used in cranes are an important part to ensure control of crane movements. Scraper brakes apply friction to the moving parts, allowing the crane to stop and remain stationary in the desired position. These brakes are used to maintain the height of the cranes, reduce vibrations and ensure safe operation.

34. Spare Parts: Spare parts are important to keep cranes working properly and operating without interruption. Spare parts can be replaced quickly in the event of any malfunction or wear and help maintain the functionality of the crane. Spare parts are used in conjunction with regular maintenance and inventory management to ensure continuity and efficiency of crane operations.

35. Safety Equipment: Safety equipment used on cranes is used to ensure the safety of operators and bystanders. This equipment includes the following:

•Safety belts and vests: Provides protection for crane operators against falls and injuries.
•Safety cages: Protective cages used in crane cabins keep the operator safe.
•Warning signs: Cranes are equipped with warning signs with information on load carrying capacity, safety procedures and other important information.
•Emergency stop buttons: Cranes are equipped with emergency stop buttons for instant stop.
•Sound and light warning systems: Cranes are equipped with warning systems that notify people in the vicinity of their operating status and movements.
•Safety sensors: Sensors are used to detect obstacles around the crane and reduce the risk of collision.
•Fire extinguishing systems: Cranes are equipped with fire extinguishing systems against the risk of fire.

This safety equipment is used to ensure the safe and trouble-free operation of cranes. The safety of operators and bystanders is a top priority in the design and operation of cranes.