The crane goes back a long way. Some even go so far as to call it the grandfather of all modern building equipment.
Archeological findings seem to agree. They mark the first use of cranes in 500 B.C on the Greek temples. Though some archeologists say, their use goes back even further, to 700-650 B.C.
Even if your crane equipment doesn’t date back quite that far, it still may be time for an upgrade.
Read on, and we’ll reveal the top eight things telling you it’s time for new crane equipment.
You Are Constantly Repairing Your Crane
Like any machinery, the older a crane gets, the more repairs it will need. The more repairs it gets, the more downtime that goes on at your facility—the more downtime, the less capacity to turn a profit.
And the dance goes on each time you shut down for repairs.
Additionally, the older a crane gets, the more obsolete, read harder to get, are its parts.
Routine maintenance is one thing. Regularly shutting down for minute repairs is another.
If your crane has to undergo extensive repairs to perform essential functions, it‘s time to think about new crane/crane equipment.
Warranties Have Expired
Cranes are a significant investment, with many moving parts. That said, most high-quality cranes will come with manufacturer or supplier warranties.
The length of a warranty can often serve as a measure of the lifespan of a part.
Are you in a situation where you constantly repair or replace crane components? Components that are no longer under warranty? Take it as a sign of the times and start shopping for new crane equipment.
Your Business Has Evolved
Successful businesses grow and change with the times. That said, perhaps you have completely rehauled how you do business.
Perhaps you find that nothing matches anymore. From the widgets, you create to the machinery used to create them.
Maybe the latest crane technology would be more helpful. Enabling you to lift heavier loads higher. Or make better products.
Having the right tools for the job is key to avoiding workplace injuries.
Straining your old equipment to meet new demand is dangerous. Keep in mind that 80% of all crane upsets happen when the operator exceeds the crane’s capacity.
The Parts Are Rare and Expensive
Cranes today aren’t the cranes of 500 B.C Greece. And you likely won’t be able to find any parts for machines that old.
If we take a less drastic length of time, say cranes that are 15-years old, you still may be hard-pressed to find replacement parts. And if you can find them they may cost an arm and a leg.
Crane technology is constantly improving. So it’s undoubtedly worth the investment to keep your equipment as fresh as you can manage.
Your Crane Causes Injuries
According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics; from 1997-2006, crane accidents were to blame for 818 workplace fatalities.
Cranes are a marvel of engineering and a true asset on many different worksites. That said, they can also be incredibly dangerous.
When crane equipment is not well maintained, updated, or used correctly no one wins. The faulty equipment can cause damage, dismemberment, even death.
Investing in new crane equipment can mean the difference between life and death.
Outdated Tech Puts You Behind
There are so many innovations when it comes to crane technology. If you don’t keep up with it, your production times could be lackluster at best.
Take radio controls as an example. The crane operator has a much better vantage point. They can see the ground better, noticing any hazards before there are problems.
Additionally, the older tech/machinery will have its limitations. Therefore, it’s in your best interest to keep up with the newest, safest equipment for you and your team.
Your Equipment Has Already Failed Inspections
This one may be obvious but is worth pointing out. If your equipment fails to meet OSHA, AME, or CMAA standards, it has to go.
Not only do you face fines for faulty equipment, but you also put your crew at risk. Each time they use your crane equipment a potential disaster awaits.
There are ways to keep ahead of the game. It may create some additional work. But the ROI is undoubtedly worth it if you can identify trouble before it’s too late.
If you don’t already, start to perform internal equipment audits regularly. That way, you can quickly identify potential threats and proactively address them.
Your Crane Does a Lions Share of The Workload
When you first started your business, maybe your crane wasn’t vital to your operation. If you find that now your crane is the lynchpin for your business’s success, it may be time to give it the once over.
Accounting for all the roles your crane plays in the day-to-day business may be helpful. It may help you identify if you need to invest in additional crane equipment.
Ask yourself the following questions:
- Is the lift greater than 25% of the crane’s capacity?
- Does the lift require more than one crane?
- Can the operator see the load?
- Is the rigging arrangement highly technical and unique?
- If the load was damaged, how bad would it be for business?
- Would a damaged load cause a major backup?
The answers you come up with will give you an idea of where you could stand to beef up your crane capacity.
Invest In The Best For Your Business
At Shannahan Crane and Hoist, we’ve been helping businesses just like yours for over 60-years. We know crane equipment inside and out, and we bring our expertise to the table with every customer.
If you’re looking to upgrade your existing equipment, or just getting started we would love to talk to you. Our friendly operators are standing by and we are ready to answer all your questions about buying new crane equipment.
With so much on the line, don’t wait another minute. Call today for a free quote and consultation. We can’t wait to exceed your expectations.