As a global rigging, heavy lift and transport company, we know that weather can have a significant impact on crane performance and maintenance. From extreme temperatures to heavy rain and high winds, there are several weather-related factors that can affect the safety and efficiency of crane operations. In this blog, we'll discuss some of the most significant ways that weather can impact crane performance and maintenance, and what steps can be taken to mitigate these effects.
Temperature Extremes
Temperature extremes are one of the most common weather-related factors that impact crane performance and maintenance. In hot weather, the hydraulic fluids in cranes can become thinner, reducing the crane's lifting capacity and causing it to work harder than it should. This can lead to premature wear and tear on the crane's hydraulic system, leading to increased maintenance costs over time.
On the other hand, cold weather can cause the hydraulic fluids in a crane to thicken, making it more difficult for the crane to operate smoothly. This can lead to slower operation and reduced lifting capacity, as well as increased wear and tear on the crane's hydraulic system. In extreme cases, cold weather can even cause hydraulic hoses and other components to crack or rupture, leading to costly repairs and downtime.
To mitigate the effects of temperature extremes on crane performance and maintenance, it's important to ensure that cranes are operated within their recommended temperature range. This may require taking steps to keep the crane's hydraulic system within a specific temperature range, such as using special hydraulic fluids or installing heating or cooling systems on the crane.
Rain and Humidity
Rain and humidity can also have a significant impact on crane performance and maintenance. When cranes are exposed to moisture, it can cause corrosion and rust to develop on critical components such as the wire rope, hoist drum, and boom. Over time, this can weaken these components and reduce the crane's overall lifting capacity.
To mitigate the effects of rain and humidity on crane performance and maintenance, it's important to take steps to protect the crane from moisture. This may include using protective coatings on critical components, storing the crane in a covered area when not in use, or regularly inspecting and cleaning the crane to prevent corrosion from developing.
Wind and Storms
High winds and storms can also have a significant impact on crane performance and maintenance. When winds exceed a certain speed, it can make it unsafe to operate a crane, as the crane may be at risk of tipping over or losing control. In extreme cases, high winds can even cause the crane to collapse, leading to serious injury or even death.
To mitigate the effects of wind and storms on crane performance and maintenance, it's important to closely monitor weather conditions and adjust crane operations accordingly. This may require shutting down crane operations during periods of high winds, or taking additional precautions to ensure the crane remains stable during operation.
Conclusion
As a global rigging, heavy lift and transport company, we understand that weather can have a significant impact on crane performance and maintenance. By taking steps to mitigate the effects of temperature extremes, rain and humidity, and wind and storms, you can help ensure that cranes operate safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of accidents and costly downtime.
Global Rigging & Transport (GRT) offers a complete line of crane services including crane modifications, repairs, assembly, dismantling, removal and salvage. Our crane modification and repair services can help to minimize the cost of downtime, as well as the safety of your operations.
Global Rigging & Transport has completed numerous crane modifications that include replacing trolley and festoon rails, wire ropes, mechanical refurbishing, structural repairs, flame strengthening and electrical controls. In preparation for each project, we do our best to identify and utilize any of the resources available from our clients and from the project location. The end result is typically a combination of resources, customized to best accomplish the project activities, while keeping costs and schedule to a minimum.
If you require crane modifications and repairs, or if you require more information on the types of services we provide at Global Rigging and Transport, please contact: d.close@globalrigging.com
GRT have offices in Virginia (US), Vancouver (Canada), San Antonio (Chile) and Panama City (Panama), enabling our capacity to meet the needs of global clients quickly and efficiently.
References:
"The Effects of Weather on Crane Performance and Safety." OSHA, https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/OSHA3941.pdf.
"Weather and Its Impact on Cranes." Crane Service, Inc., https://www.craneserviceinc.com/weather-and-its-impact-on-cranes/.
"Weather and Its Impact on Crane Operations." Cranes Today, https://www.cranestodaymagazine.com/features/weather-and-its-impact-on-crane-operations/.