For cities with booming growth, overhead cranes are a common sight. Although industrial equipment can lift multiple tons of weight safely, when it’s damaged, it can pose a huge safety concern to you and your coworkers. To decrease the risk associated with crane rentals, look for the following problems before operating the equipment.

Crane Danger Signs to Watch For

1. Bent Hooks

Hooks are designed to hold a load in a precise direction. When the weight isn’t supported as intended by the hook or by other pieces of rigging hardware, they have a chance of cracking, stretching, or bending. The load could also slip off, causing damage to the load and people underneath. Check crane rentals for bent hooks by visually inspecting them for deformities.

2. Worn End Truck Wheels

End trucks carry the hoist and crane up and down runways by using wheels. These require frequent maintenance, adjustment, and replacement because they wear down due to regular crane use. Steel wheels with a high amount of carbon are the hardest variety, but wheels come in various materials such as polyurethane and alloys. If the wheels, bearings, or flanges wear down prematurely, this indicates the crane isn’t tracking correctly down the runway.

Always check the runways before operating a crane rental, because misaligned runways could obstruct your work. Any signs of wear could indicate a more significant problem that should be addressed, like incorrect wheel type for the crane you’re operating, or the wheels’ hardness doesn’t match the hardness of the rail.

3. Broken Wire Rope

Damaged wire ropes are a common issue associated with an overhead crane system. Birdcaging, which refers to metal coils unstranding, will affect the use of the equipment, but any rope that looks abnormal needs to be inspected. Breaking, corrosion, kinking, or severe wear are other signs that a rope needs to be replaced. Many operating conditions affect the life of wire ropes, but typical wear also will damage them eventually. To extend its life, keep rope lubricated to protect it against corrosion and reduce friction. 

If you’re looking for an experienced and reliable company for commercial crane rentals, contact Louisville Sign Co. in Mount Washington, KY. Not only do they create professional signs for businesses, but they also provide crane rentals and operators to move heavy objects or billboards. Call them at (502) 957-2161 to speak to a representative, or visit their website for a full list of services.