Buying an overhanging crane is a pricey decision so previously owned cranes usually are at the very least thought of as an option. Obviously, it is a cheaper alternative on the surface, yet is it actually cheaper? Complying with are some concerns to consider.
1. Is the supplier still in organization?
There have actually been numerous debt consolidations, closures, and also insolvencies in the crane industry. Will you be able to obtain parts for your crane? Many of the older cranes are much more robust as well as are a built-up design which enables you to buy a number of the parts off the rack because of them being industry-standard components (NEMA rated as an example). This puts on motors, contactors, bearings, as well as combinings among others.
But, a lot of the cranes have parts that were specifically made for the crane maker as well as do not utilize common parts. You might have to make adjustments to parts to make the retro-fit parts fit appropriately. Numerous crane suppliers call for unique motor shafts, contactors, collection agency shoes, electrification systems to name a few which might or might not be conveniently available.
2. What are my responsibilities if I purchase a crane as well as make any kind of alterations to it?
Manufacturer's responsibility is totally happy once you modify their crane. A lot of utilized cranes will need some sort of re-span which needs significant mechanical modifications.
If the crane is especially old, the box girders may be secured girders which are tough to modify or arch beam-type on patent track design which has actually been considered unsafe. Properly done, a designer will certainly require to design and also put his PE seal on any type of alteration to a bridge girder.
3. Is the crane the ideal capability for my application?
Larger is commonly better in crane applications however you need to take into consideration the costs of getting a bargain on a greater than required capacity? There are added expenses to take into consideration. The crane is much heavier as well as will certainly require a larger path and footings to sustain a dead tons of simply the crane. Every replacement part such as the motors, brakes, contactors, as well as cord rope all are larger and more expensive to replace. If you are making changes or upgrades to the electric system such as variable regularity drives those parts will likewise be bigger and extra pricey.
4. Does the crane suit my existing electrical supply?
There are numerous stories of a client acquiring an old crane and then determining it is DC or the wrong voltage. You then encounter pricey motor adjustments or step up or step down transformers. Likewise is the electrical distribution system up to day. Is the electrification old open wire type, or an outdated type of bar? It is really pricey to change the electric on an old crane.
5. Are you all set to give up the comfort of a service warranty?
Used cranes commonly lug no warranty. New cranes now commonly included 1-year parts and labor with an additional year on parts for all non-wear products. You also get up to date parts guidebooks so you can purchase parts from the manufacturer.
6. That will do my adjustments to the crane?
If your crane does call for a re-span or major electrical adjustment a knowledgeable crane firm needs to be included. Where will the work be done? What are the extra costs of delivery including taking down the crane, delivering to a shop, and afterwards reshipping to your facility? Will a professional engineer support all of the job? If the crane has troubles once it remains in the shop, who is liable? A lot of used cranes are "as is".
There are several stories of excellent made use of cranes being rehabbed yet a certain quantity of care and prep work needs such as replacing crane parts to enter into place to make the right decision.
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