Focus on overhead cranes

By Staff -- Modern Materials Handling, 12/1/2007

Intelligent lifting

The G-Force Q and programmable iQ intelligent lifting devices are offered in a 660 pound capacity. Combining the responsiveness of a human with the power of a machine, the units generate precise placement and give operators greater control over loads being lifted and placed. This control improves operator safety, protects products and increases workcell productivity. The devices are ideal for larger capacity lifting, including fully dressed engines and transmissions, changing out machine tooling and dies on production machinery, heavy equipment manufacturing and large valve assembly in the oil and natural gas industry. Gorbel, 800-821-0086, www.gorbel.com.

Adjustable carriage crane arm

Ideal for component industry applications, the Logiflex crane arm with an adjustable carriage moves heavy machine tools, plastics molds and components. The crane arm features a tool-less adjustable length chain with hook. With a maximum capacity of 1,110 pounds, lifting and lowering functions may be operated by remote control. The crane arm's construction ensures a long operating life and low maintenance costs. Interthor, 708-345-1270, www.interthor.com.

Modular single girder cranes

Holding capacities up to 15 tons and crossing spans up to 60 feet, underrunning single girder cranes allow for interchangeable components. Including both wide flange beams and fabricated boxes, the cranes include a two-speed hoist and bridge. Single speed and push trolleys are also offered. Standard options include variable speeds for all travel and hoist drives, dual hoist arrangements and outdoor operation. Demag Cranes & Components, 800-756-8221, www.demag-us.com.

Payload manipulators handle up to 225 pounds

The LodeArm and LodeArm II manipulators maneuver payloads up to 225 pounds, increasing a worker's ability to perform physically demanding and repetitive lifting. Lightweight and compact, the manipulators adjust to fit almost any work cell. Different models accommodate low headroom spaces with horizontal lift arms that swing up and down at 30 or 45 degrees. The LodeArm II unit is mounted on an overhead light rail trolley. Features include push-button valve controls to lift and lower the unit, speed valves, 360 degree rotation at the main post, radial reach up to 113 inches and vertical travel up to 54 inches. Positech, 800-831-6026, www.positech.com.

Space saving cranes lift up to 80 tons

CXT industrial cranes offer lifting capacities from 1 to 80 tons and come in single and double girder construction with profile or box type girder designs. Top, side and under-hung main girder connections accommodate different building heights for maximum space savings. This design allows for more efficient use of the existing floor area under the crane. Ideal for medium-heavy operation with a machinery duty rating of ISO M5, features include 60% duty rating and standard motors that provide dual-speed hoisting at a 6:1 ratio. Dyna-family inverter controls are standard on bridge and trolley motions, ensuring smooth starts and stops while reducing wear and mechanical stress on structures. Konecranes Americas, 800-934-6976, www.kciamericas.com.

Crane attachment for drum handling

The Parrot-Beak drum handling attachment attaches to overhead cranes for safely lifting steel, fiber and plastic drums weighing up to 2,000 pounds. The mechanical clamping system engages the top lip of the container for safe and reliable pick-up. For safe handling of 15 to 27 inch diameter drums, it includes an adjustable counterbalance on the main frame, and a padded belt cradle to protect the drum sidewall during transport. One or two drum configurations are offered, as well as stainless steel units for food and pharmaceutical applications. Liftomatic Material Handling, 800-837-6540, www.liftomatic.com.