Cranes provide significant lifting capabilities, which in turn increase both the speed and precision of lifting tasks.
However, the operational requirements of a crane can look very different depending on the industry and specific application at hand. One such example is the need to use a crane outdoors.
Overhead cranes aren’t typically built to be used outdoors. Although if they are specifically built, engineered and maintained with outdoor use in mind, it is possible to use an overhead crane outside.
Metreel is a leading UK supplier of industrial cranes. In today’s post, we’re here to guide you on what to consider when purchasing an overhead crane intended for outdoor use, as the guidance will differ compared with standard indoor cranes.
Using Overhead Cranes Outdoors: Usage Scenarios
Unsurprisingly, outdoor overhead cranes are most likely to be required in industrial environments which involve working outside. Some examples include steel yards, ports, fabrication yards, utilities, waste & recycling plants, concrete production and large storage yards.
The main challenge though is that not all overhead cranes are suitable for use outdoors.
For instance, if a standard indoor crane were used outside, it would expose the crane to wind, moisture and temperature fluctuations which fall outside the expected operational parameters. This would pose various safety hazards and ultimately lead to the premature failure of the crane.
When Buying An Outdoor Crane, What Risks Have To Be Factored In Within The Design Features?
- Collision risks
- Crane instability or derailment
- Debris
- Extreme temperature fluctuations
- Lightning and electrical surges
- Load instability
- Load swing
- Operator error
- Paint failure
- Rail misalignment
- Rain and moisture
- Rusting
- Salt atmosphere
- Snow and ice
- Thermal cycling
- Uncontrolled trolley travel
- UV radiation
- Wheel slip
Key Design Considerations For Outdoor Overhead Cranes
To mitigate the above risks, it’s essential that an overhead crane is purpose-built to operate outdoors.
If so, an outdoor crane should possess weather resistance, wind-rated structural design, enhanced mechanical durability and weatherproof electrical systems. An outdoor crane must also have additional safety features and stricter maintenance, owing to the harsher environmental conditions it will experience.
Across every aspect of the crane, specific features will need to be integrated. For instance, features that can aid in preventing damage from corrosion and weather conditions include hot-dip galvanised structural steel, marine grade paint systems, stainless steel fasteners and fittings, sealed gearboxes and weatherproof electrical enclosures.
Best Practices For Safe Outdoor Overhead Crane Operation
- Use a crane specifically designed for outdoor use
- Install wind-speed monitoring with automatic shutdown triggers
- Use rail clamps, storm brakes and wheel chocks
- Apply marine-grade paint systems and corrosion-resistant materials
- Ensure regular inspection and maintenance as per LOLER requirements
- Keep rails clean and correctly aligned
- Fit weatherproof electrical components
- Provide lighting, cameras or operator cabins if required
- Follow manufacturer-set wind and weather restrictions
In Search Of A Custom Crane Solution? Contact The Experts At Metreel
Metreel is a global supplier of material handling solutions, including cranes. As a result, our experts are highly experienced in turnkey crane installations, including when the operating conditions call for customised solutions.
To discuss your crane requirements with our team, please get in touch.
Or, to speak with us directly call 0115 932 7010.