7 Questions to Ask Before Choosing an Aluminium Crane System

Choosing an overhead crane system is easier when you start with the right questions. These seven cover most of what an engineer will ask when helping you select a rail system.

1. What are you moving, and how heavy is it?

Know the heaviest load and the typical load. Finrae offers four standard crane profiles (S, M, L and XL) and load trolleys with capacities of 300 kg, 600 kg and 1200 kg, so the load helps decide the profile and trolley.

2. What path does the material follow?

A single straight path may need only a single rail. If the route turns, curved rails can be connected to straight sections.

3. How large is the work area?

Covering a bay rather than a line calls for a long-and-cross rail arrangement. Compare the available layouts against the area your operators need to reach.

4. What will the system be mounted on?

Rigid and pendular suspensions mount rails below overhead structures. Understand the structure, and which loads act in which directions, before choosing the suspension type.

5. What else needs to work with the rail?

Hoists, balancers, grippers and specialised automation can all be integrated with the rail. Decide early so the trolleys and accessories are selected to suit.

6. What are the safety requirements?

Safety girders, safety wire rope and end stoppers provide primary and secondary safety provisions. The right combination depends on the rail configuration and the application.

7. What support do you need?

Consider consultation, product selection, integration, installation, commissioning, training and maintenance, so the system performs well beyond day one.

Next step

Bring your answers to our engineers and we will help you narrow down the configuration. Request a quote or read about our services.