Developing Professionals For The Lifting Equipment Industry
Developing Professionals For The Lifting Equipment Industry
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Overhead Travelling Cranes
Advanced Programme 2
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LEEA Learning and Development Agreement
In the interests of all parties and to ensure the successful achievement of the LEEA Overhead Travelling
Cranes Advanced Programme, the following arrangements are to be confirmed:
Student:
I agree to:
Signed __________________________________________________________________ 3
Date __________________________________________________________________
I agree to:
Safeguard the health, safety and welfare of my students throughout the training programme
Provide my students with quality training, maintaining the highest of professional standards throughout
Maintain confidentiality for all students at all times
Provide regular feedback to students on their progress, identifying areas which may need additional
study
Keep appropriate records of any assessments conducted
Ensure that all students are able to discuss any issues or concerns which may arise during the training
course
Signed __________________________________________________________________
Date __________________________________________________________________
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Disclaimer
These Step Notes are a useful and authoritative source of information for the LEEA OTC Advanced
Programme student.
Whilst every effort has been made to achieve the highest degree of accuracy in the generation of the
data and information supplied, ultimate responsibility remains with the student and their employer to
ensure that current legal requirements are followed.
© LEEA 2016. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval
system or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior written permission of the Lifting
Equipment Engineers Association.
Contents
Digital Navigation
If you are viewing this document electronically, you can navigate using the Contents table above. Click the
heading to jump to that module.
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1. Legislation
Moral, Legal and Financial Reasons for Health and Safety Legislation
Employers have a moral responsibility to ensure appropriate working conditions are provided
This is known as a common law duty of care
Society and customer expectations of a company’s approach to managing safety - health and safety culture
Negative public relations would have a damaging effect on any business
The health and safety at work act (HSWA) is an enabling act for specific regulations
Notes:
The main purposes of the Act are set out in section 1 as follows:
It sets out a framework of general duties, primarily on employers, but also on employees and the controllers
of premises, and on designers, manufacturers, importers and suppliers in relation to articles and substances
used at work.
Regulations are not acts of Parliament but do have the support of the law and therefore must be complied
with.
6
Regulations are increasingly drafted by reference to European Directives (these will be discussed at a later
stage in this module).
There are many sets of regulations applying to health and safety. Some apply to all places of work and others
are specific to particular industries, operations, substances, materials or premises.
Here are a couple examples of such regulations:
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Safe working environment and adequate welfare facilities
To carry out or arrange such testing and examination necessary to perform the duties above
To ensure that those supplying the item have adequate information about its designed and tested
use. This includes essential conditions for dismantling and disposal
Take steps to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that those supplied are given updated
information where it becomes known that the item gives rise to serious risk to health and safety
Also, they must co-operate with their employers; as long as this does not lead to an increased risk
to health and safety, or is an illegal act; so that employers can comply with their statutory duties 7
In addition to section 2 (2) c of the HSWA, the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
(MHSWR) require employers to ensure the effective planning, organisation, control, monitoring and review
of preventive and protective measures. All these arrangements must be recorded and made known to
employees. This is usually accomplished by the design of a company health and safety policy.
MHSWR underlines the requirements for employers to provide instruction and training
Employers must ensure that their personnel are properly trained to use any equipment necessary
in the course of their work, but the regulations also place an obligation on employees to undergo
such training and follow the instructions given by their employer
Operatives are required to only use equipment for which they are trained and to use it in the
manner and for the purpose for which they have been trained
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LEEA Definition of a Competent Person
The term ‘Competent Person’ has long been used in legislation. Current legislation uses it for a variety of
duties to describe a person with the necessary knowledge, experience, training, skill and ability to perform
the specific duty to which the requirement refers. There can therefore be several ‘Competent Persons’, each
with their own duties and responsibilities, i.e. competent for the purpose.
The term has never been fully defined in law, but for the purpose of thoroughly examining lifting equipment,
the LEEA definition of a Competent Person is a person having such practical and theoretical knowledge and
experience of the equipment which is to be thoroughly examined that will enable him/her to detect defects
or weaknesses which it is the purpose of the examination to discover and assess their importance to the
safety of the equipment.
The Competent Person should have the maturity to seek such specialist advice and assistance as may be
required to enable him/her to make necessary judgements and be a sound judge of the extent to which
he/she can accept the supporting opinions of other specialists. He/she must be able to certify with
confidence whether it is free from patent defect and suitable in every way for the duty for which the
equipment is required. It is the view of LEEA that competency can be a corporate responsibility.
Information
Instruction
Training 8
Supervision
Note: LEEA Foundation Course and Advanced Programme certificates are not evidence, declaration or proof
of competency.
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Risk Assessment
Legal Effects - Duty of care and consequences of unsuitable or insufficient risk management.
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Definitions
Hazard
A hazard is something (object or situation) that has the potential to cause harm.
Danger
Likelihood
Severity
If the potential for harm was to occur, how severe would the accident be.
Risk is the likelihood that the harm from the hazard is realised.
Notes: 10
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5 Steps to Risk Assessment
Control Measures:
Eliminate
Reduce
Isolate
Control
PPE 11
Discipline
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Additional hazards presented? E.g. traffic, pedestrians etc., changes in production activity
Record your findings and change the risk assessment as necessary. This may result in the requirement for
additional control measures.
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Are You Following a ‘Safe System of Work’?
If you have completed the above checklist, you are now following a “Safe System of Work”
A European directive is a directive to the member states of the European community, which has been
adopted by the council of ministers, to introduce legislation with common requirements throughout the
community. The directives are used to remove barriers to trade and introduce common safety
requirements.
The Machinery Directive is largely based on risk assessment and use of European standards for critical
features such as guards and emergency stops. Machinery directive provides the harmonisation of the
essential health and safety requirements (EHSRs) for machinery.
It applies only to products that are intended to be placed on or put into service in the market for the first
time.
What is a ‘Machine’? 12
"An assembly, fitted with or intended to be fitted with a drive system other than directly applied human or
animal effort, consisting of linked parts or components, at least one of which moves, and which are joined
together for a specific application".
Note: As an example, a manual slew jib without hoist that could be fitted inside an offshore service container
would not be within the scope of the Directive. The example below shows the hoist fitted to the slew jib so
would be within the scope of the directive.
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Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008 – SM(S)R
The Machinery Directive is implemented in the United Kingdom under the Supply of Machinery (Safety)
Regulations.
The Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008, SI No 1597 implement the Machinery Directive and
contain Essential Safety Requirements which the machinery, including lifting machines and lifting
accessories must meet.
Manufacturers, importers (into the European Union) and suppliers placing such equipment on the market
for service in the community have a duty to:
Design, build and supply equipment that is safe and meets the essential safety requirements
To carry out such tests as may be necessary to ensure the requirements of above are met
To maintain records of all calculations, tests and other relevant information that go to make up a
Technical File which may be called upon by the enforcing authorities and which must demonstrate
that the Essential Safety Requirements have been met
Issue with each item of equipment information on the installation, maintenance, care and safe use
o Issue a Declaration of Conformity and affix the CE mark, or issue a Declaration of
Incorporation depending on its nature and intended use. In this context, if you manufacture
or import (from outside the European Union) an item for your own use, you assume the full
responsibilities of the manufacturer and must therefore meet all of the requirements of the
regulations
To support the machinery directive, the joint European Standards Organisation, CEN/CENELEC, has been
producing Harmonised European Standards. 13
Most of these standards have been published but there are still some left in the pipeline. As and when they
are published, they will supersede any existing British Standards or other European National Standards
covering the same products.
These Harmonised Standards have a special status in that products made to the standard are deemed to
meet the Essential Health and Safety Requirements of the Relevant Directives, and therefore the UK
Regulations, in so far as the standard addresses such essential requirements.
They therefore provide a relatively easy way for manufacturers to know that their products meet the legal
requirements and equally a convenient way for purchasers to specify their needs.
Following the publication of the new Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC in 2006, all the relevant Harmonised
Standards have been amended to make reference to it.
The Essential Health and Safety Requirements that apply to the lifting equipment:
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Aligned to the requirements of the Machinery Directive, the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations state
that lifting equipment must be designed and built to sustain a static overload of:
1.1 x WLL
Previous standards and directives have used different values therefore it is important to always consult
manufacturers documentation for specific requirements.
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The Essentials of PUWER
It is the duty of the employer to ensure that work equipment coming into his undertaking meets
with any EHSRs and in the case of lifting equipment this would be of directive 2006/42/EC
The working conditions and risk to health and safety of personnel in which the work equipment is
used is to be considered
All persons using work equipment have sufficient information pertaining to its use, e.g. operating
manuals and guides to safe use
PUWER requires employer to address risks or hazards of equipment from all dates of manufacture and
supply.
Equipment first provided for use after 31st December 1992 must comply with any ‘essential requirements’
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Equipment may still present a hazard or risk if:
CE marking
EC declaration of conformity
Note: Offshore container standards slightly differ and require a Certificate of Conformity
PUWER requires that, when providing equipment for use at work the purchaser obtains equipment
complying with the relevant European Directives. e.g. In the case of offshore containers requesting the
Certificate of Conformity which shows compliance with BS EN 12079 will ensure that the offshore containers
meet this requirement.
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Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER)
Regulation 5 Maintenance
Regulation 6 Inspection
Regulation 9 Training
PUWER requires employer to address risks or hazards of equipment from all dates of manufacture and
supply.
Equipment first provided for use after 31st December 1992 must comply with any ‘essential requirements’.
How does an employer check that equipment he has purchased complies with the requirements of PUWER?
Locate the CE marking
Obtain the EC declaration of conformity from the supplier
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Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment (LOLER)
-----------------
Requires the employer to ensure that the load they are planning to lift does not exceed the limits for
strength and stability of the lifting equipment.
Details the additional safeguards that must be considered when using lifting equipment to lift people.
Details the considerations on where lifting equipment, both fixed and mobile equipment, should be sited.
Requires all lifting equipment to be marked with its SWL and information that gives the items characteristics,
e.g. grade, angle of use etc.
Clarifies that each lifting operation needs to be planned, supervised and carried out safely.
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Regulation 9 Thorough Examination and Inspection
Before lifting equipment is put into service for the first time it is thoroughly examined for any defect unless
the lifting equipment:
Maximum fixed periods for thorough examinations and inspection of lifting equipment as stated in
regulation 9 of LOLER are: -
Or each time that exceptional circumstances which are liable to jeopardise the safety of the lifting
equipment have occurred.
The information to be contained in the report of thorough examination is given in schedule 1 of LOLER. 18
The name and address of the employer for whom the thorough examination was made
The address of the premises at which the thorough examination was made
Particulars sufficient to identify the equipment including where known its date of manufacture
The safe working load of the lifting equipment or (where its safe working load depends on the
configuration of the lifting equipment) its safe working load for the last configuration in which it
was thoroughly examined
In relation to the first thorough examination of lifting equipment after installation or after assembly
at a new site or in a new location:
o That it is such thorough examination;
o (If such be the case) that it has been installed correctly and would be safe to operate
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Whether it is a thorough examination:
o Within an interval of 6 months under regulation 9(3)(a)(i)
o Within an interval of 12 months under regulation 9(3)(a)(ii)
o In accordance with an examination scheme under regulation 9(3)(a)(iii)
o After the occurrence of exceptional circumstances under regulation 9(3)(a)(iv)
(If such be the case) that the lifting equipment would be safe to operate
In the case of a defect which is not yet but could become a danger to persons -
o The time by which it could become such a danger
o Particulars of any repair, renewal or alteration required to remedy it
The latest date by which the next thorough examination must be carried out
The name, address and qualifications of the person making the report; that he/she is self-employed
or, if employed, the name and address of his employer 19
The name and address of a person signing or authenticating the report on behalf of its author
Model report of thorough examinations are available for LEEA members on the LEEA website.
The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 permits a scheme of examination, drawn
up by a competent person, as an alternative to the fixed maximum periods.
The benefit of an examination scheme is that, by focusing on the most safety critical areas, the
examinations can be carried out the most cost effective way. This may provide a means of reducing
examination costs, however, it may also provide a means of enhancing safety without increasing costs.
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Information for Written Schemes of Examination
The written scheme of examination should contain at least the following information:
The name and contact details of the person responsible for the equipment. If responsibility is
divided, e.g. between maintenance and operations, there may be more than one name, however it
should be clear who should be notified in the event of a dangerous or potentially dangerous defect
and to whom reports should be sent
The name, qualifications and address of the person drawing up the scheme. If the competent person
is not working on their own account, the name of their employing organisation and their position in
that organisation should be given
The identity of the equipment, i.e. a description including the make, model and unique identity
number
The location of the equipment if it is a fixed installation or the location where it is based for portable
and mobile equipment
Details of any information or references used in drawing up the scheme. For example the
manufacturer’s manual, expected component life, or specific information on the design life of the
crane structure and mechanisms as detailed in clause 7 of ISO 12482-1
The basis for the scheme. For example, is it based on hours of service, duty monitoring, examining 20
certain parts or components at different intervals to other parts?
Details of any data logging system fitted, including a list of the parameters monitored and the means
of data retrieval, monitoring and storage
What determines when the thorough examination shall take place and who is responsible for
monitoring that and instigating the examination?
The frequency of thorough examination of those parts identified as safety critical taking into
account the degree of risk associated with each part. This may include time or loading or duty cycle
limits and vary for different parts of the equipment. Where the scheme is based on such criteria,
we recommend that a maximum period between thorough examinations is always specified as
equipment can deteriorate whether used or not
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The method of examination of those safety critical parts, which may include the degree of
dismantling required and the techniques employed e.g. visual examination, measurement, NDT,
operational test, load test
An indication of the resources required to prepare the equipment and carry out the thorough
examination. This may include qualified personnel, workshop facilities, specialist NDT and
metallurgical facilities
Any changes to equipment condition, operational or environmental parameters that will require a
review of the scheme by the competent person. These may include damage to the equipment,
change of use from general duty to heavy duty or moving from an inland location to a marine
environment
A requirement for the person responsible for the equipment to monitor its circumstances of use
and inform the competent person who drafted the scheme of any changes
The date of drawing up the scheme and the date at which any routine review is required
Further information on written schemes of examination can be found in the LEEA COPSULE Edition 8
Appendix 1.8.
Where there is in his opinion a defect in the lifting equipment involving an existing or imminent risk of
serious personal injury, the Competent Person will send a copy of the report as soon as is possible to the
relevant enforcing authority. In this case, an employer who has been notified of an imminent risk shall
ensure that the lifting equipment is not used before the defect is rectified.
Notes:
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Regulation 11 Keeping of Information
Keep the EC Declaration of Conformity for so long as they operate the lifting equipment
Ensure that the information contained in every report is kept available for inspection
LOLER refers to ‘Thorough Examination and Inspection’ of which a test may be part.
Refers directly to lifting operations and adds to the employers duties in section 2 of the HSWA
Requires an assessment to be made of any operation where loads are handled manually, or where
manual effort is necessary, with a view to reducing the number of injuries that result from such
operations:
o Task
o Individual
o Load
o Environment
Requires the introduction of lifting appliances where the risks are high or if the operation can be
made safer by their introduction
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Working at Height
The danger of people and materials falling affects not only those working at height, but also sometimes to
a greater degree, those underneath.
Working at height is one of the biggest causes of fatalities and major injuries. Commonly, accidents are
caused from falls from ladders and through fragile surfaces. Work at height means work in any place where,
if there were no precautions in place, a person could fall a distance that could cause personal injury (for
example a fall through a fragile roof).
Employers and those in control of work at height must first assess the risks.
They emphasise the need to avoid working at height if possible but, where it is necessary, they require the
most suitable means of reducing and controlling the risk. 23
Consequently, this has affected the choice of equipment for some lifting operations.
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Dos and Do Nots of Working at Height
Do:
Do not:
Overload ladders; consider the equipment or materials workers are carrying before working at height. Check
the pictogram or label on the ladder for information
Overreach on ladders or stepladders
Rest a ladder against weak upper surfaces, e.g. glazing or plastic gutters
Use ladders or stepladders for strenuous or heavy tasks, only use them for light work of short duration (a
maximum of 30 minutes at a time)
Let anyone who is not competent (who doesn’t have the skills, knowledge and experience to do the job) to
work at height
Please read the HSE document: “Working at Height – A Brief Guide”, available at www.hse.gov.uk
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The Electricity at Work Regulations apply to almost all places of work. The Regulations were enacted to
impose duties to limit the risks involved with using electricity at work.
The duties under the Regulations are not just in relation to employers but also place a duty on employees
in the following circumstances:
To co-operate with his employer so far as is necessary to enable any duty placed on that employer
by the provisions of these Regulations to be complied with
To comply with the provisions of these Regulations in so far as they relate to matters which are
within his control
Many employees in the electrical trades and professions for example have responsibilities which
are part of the duties of their employment of safety in relation to the installation of electrical
equipment and systems
The definition of electrical equipment provided by the regulations includes anything used, intended to be
used or installed for use, to generate, provide, transmit, transform, rectify, convert, conduct, distribute,
control, store, measure or use electrical energy.
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For further information, please read the HSE documents: “The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 –
Guidance on Regulations” and “Electricity at Work – Safe Working Practices”. These can be found at
www.hse.gov.uk.
In order to facilitate a single European market for goods some 20 years ago the European Union began what
is described as the 'New Approach'. A number of Directives were adopted with the aim of setting objectives
for the harmonisation of technical rules, primarily but not exclusively, affecting the health and safety of new
products by design and construction.
The principal aim of the 'New Approach' was to remove barriers to trade by requiring all products to meet
common minimum health and safety objectives, which would be supported by agreed standards at the
product level.
The Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2004/108/EC (EMC) will apply to equipment with an electrical
aspect, primarily to prevent interference with other electrical equipment and its own immunity from such
disturbance.
The EMC Directive is implemented in the UK by the Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations which apply
to electrical and electronic equipment liable to cause or be affected by electromagnetic disturbance.
25
The aim of the regulations is to ensure that electromagnetic disturbance generated by electrical or
electronic equipment doesn’t reach levels which would prevent radio, telecommunications and other
equipment from working properly. They also exist to ensure that such equipment itself has adequate
immunity from electromagnetic disturbance.
Whilst this is not a matter for the tester and examiner of lifting equipment, we should note that when the
manufacturer affixes the CE mark to an item it implies that all the necessary directives have been complied
with.
The EC Declaration of Conformity for electrically operated lifting equipment should therefore refer to both
the Machinery Directive and the Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive.
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Revoked, Repealed and Amended Legislation
Prior to 5 December 1998, the Factories Act 1961 was the main legislation concerned with the use of lifting
equipment and it was augmented several sets of industry specific regulations. The Provision and Use of
Work Equipment Regulations 1998 and the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998
together repeal, revoke or amend and replace the requirements for lifting equipment given in the following:
Whilst the LEEA COPSULE does not include operation of powered equipment, users should be reminded of
the need for power systems to be installed, maintained and examined in accordance with the relevant
regulations, e.g. The Electricity at Work Regulations, The Pressure Systems Safety Regulations etc., and their
need to meet any obligations these regulations impose.
Power operated equipment has the advantages of quicker operation than with manually operated
equipment, often operatives can be remote from the load and heavier loads can be handled conveniently
26
without operative fatigue.
In summary, where no power source is available, light loads are to be lifted, infrequent operation is called
for or precision placement of the load is required, manual operation may be considered. Where heavy loads
are to be lifted, frequent operation is called for or a more rapid operation is necessary power operation
should be considered.
Summary
In this module, we have looked at the various laws that are applicable to lifting equipment and it’s
examination in the United Kingdom.
Examiners of lifting equipment should always make themselves familiar with the national regulations of the
country in which they are operating.
Notes:
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2. Standards
1. Design
2. Classification
3. Gantries
4. Thorough Examination
5. Other Relevant Standards
These categories, and the standards pertaining to each will be shown as you work through this module.
It is advisable that the Competent Person has access to relevant standards in the course of their work in the
thorough examination of overhead travelling cranes.
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Types of Standards
Manufacturing standards detail dimensions, materials and safe working loads, e.g. BS EN 14492 (Winches
and Hoists).
Performance standards offer a range of criteria that the final product must meet, e.g. BS EN 13001 – Cranes
(General Design).
ISO (or International Standards) generally take the form of performance standards, which are agreed
internationally by a majority vote. Their use is optional but they are often used as the basis for writing
National Standards. Where the UK accepts these as written, they are published in this country as British
Standards. A new practice has been adopted in recent years of using the ISO number and adding the prefix
BS, for example ISO 2330 - Fork lift trucks - Fork arms - Technical characteristics and testing is published as
BS ISO 2330.
ISO 9927-1 (Cranes – Inspection – General) is an example of an International Standard that sets out the
minimum criteria for the inspection of overhead cranes.
In the UK, BS 7121-2-7: 2012 is the standard that should be followed for the thorough examination of
Overhead Travelling Cranes.
OTC Design
BS 466 (withdrawn, but to be used for cranes designed to this standard): Design of Cranes
OTC Classification
BS ISO 12482: Cranes – Monitoring for Crane Design Working Period (Duty Holder/Owner)
Gantries
*This training course has been primarily constructed in relation to the standard BS 7121-2-7:2012 for the
inspection, maintenance and thorough examination of Overhead Travelling Cranes.
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Notes:
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3. Lifting Media – Load Chain
BS EN 818 – 7, covering: Short link chain for lifting purposes — Safety — Part 7: Fine tolerance
hoist chain
BS EN 818-7 is applicable to electrically welded round steel short link hoist chains conforming to
EN 818-1
ISO 3077 - Short-link chain for lifting purposes, - Grade T, (types T, DAT and DT), fine – tolerance
hoist chain 30
Chain Finishes
Type DAT and type DT hoist chains possess a surface hardness greater than core hardness and are
used for power driven chain hoists to offer greater resistance to wear
Type DT hoist chain differs from DAT hoist chain in having higher surface hardness and/or greater
case depth to optimise wear resistance
The chain is made to precise dimensions in order that it engages freely, and without jamming into
pocketed load wheels
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The application of a tensile force at the final stages of manufacture (pulled to precise pitch) has the
effect of work hardening the chain
Fine tolerance chain is less ductile than chain used for general sling manufacture (medium
tolerance)
Be strong
Be reasonably resistant to corrosion
Have good resistance to wear
Further improved by case hardening and/or plated with corrosion resistant finishes at the time of
manufacture.
Guidance on the applications for which the different types of Grade T hoist chain shall be used is as follows:
Type T manually operated hoists, or power operated hoists with slow speeds, where the working
environment does not involve abrasive conditions
31
Type DAT power driven hoists where chain speeds are high in combination with high working
capacity and where wear resistance is required to give longer chain life
Note: Case hardened chains are not suitable in portable manually operated hoists.
Notes:
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WLL Comparison of Chain Grades
Dimensional incompatibility between the hoist chain and mating parts of the hoist (chain wheel, chain
guide and loading device) may lead to premature failure of the chain.
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BS EN 818-7 contains dimensional requirements for correct assembly and fit.
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Key Points
Chain stripper fitted to ensure disengagement of slack load chain from the load wheel
Frequent Inspection
In addition to the requirements for statutory periodic examinations, hoist manufacturers will issue
instructions for user inspections. The type and frequency of inspections depends basically on the working
conditions of the hoist. General classifications are given for these inspections as ‘frequent' and ‘periodic'.
Frequent inspections are visual inspections carried out by the operator or other designated person, with
or without a record being made, to determine if damage or deterioration has occurred in service.
The following inspection intervals are recommended when carrying out frequent inspections and are in
addition to a daily pre-use check which should be made by the operator:
Periodic Inspection
Periodic inspections are more thorough inspections by appointed persons making records of the external
conditions to provide a basis for a continuing evaluation. The following periodic inspection intervals are
recommended:
If at any of these user inspections external conditions indicate it necessary, the machine should be referred
to a Competent Person for thorough examination.
Thorough Examination
Thorough examinations are made by a Competent Person, i.e. the tester and examiner. They are usually
associated with statutory requirements calling for records to be made and certificates or reports issued
which permit the hoist to enter or remain in service. This is far more thorough than the user inspection and
will usually include disassembly of parts to permit detailed examination. Each of the regulations lays down
a maximum time period between such examinations. 34
When carrying out thorough examinations the chain should be examined throughout its length to detect
any evidence of wear, distortion or external damage. The block should then be operated under ‘no load'
and ‘load' conditions in both directions to check for the smooth functioning of the chain and wheels. If the
chain jumps, binds or is noisy after cleaning and lubrication then a more detailed examination must take
place.
Link by link examination in adequate light. Check for NCCG (nicks, cuts, cracks or gouges), wear,
elongation and other damage including build-up of debris
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o Wear and elongation to be measured in accordance with ‘original equipment
manufacturer’ (OEM) instructions
Notes:
A common misunderstanding is that stretch in a load chain is the same as elongation. This is incorrect.
Stretch in a load chain is not permitted as this is actually the chain having exceeded its elastic limit and now
will have permanent set (it is now in the plastic deformation stage) and this should be withdrawn from
service. Elongation is wear that has occurred due to articulation of the interlinking chain links at the intrados
of the connection point.
Manufacturers may have different instructions for measurement and the acceptance/rejection
criteria may vary
The example below is taken from a manufacturers maintenance manual and is typical for most brands of
hoists:
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Chain Elongation due to Wear
Rejection Criteria
Load chains should be rejected if any of the following conditions are observed:
Cracks
Nicks or gouges
Visible distortion
Severe corrosion
Deposits which cannot be removed
Increase in length which exceeds the OEM recommendations or 2% over 5 links
36
Wear
In the case of wear, rapid wear can lead to sudden failure of the chain. This is shown as a rough appearance
of the mating surfaces. Such chains should be replaced even if they are within the OEM wear limits.
Chain Replacement
Calibrated chain for powered lifting hoists varies in dimensions, particularly pitch, for different
manufacturers. For this reason it is important that only chain specified by the hoist manufacturer should
be used for replacement. Each manufacturer provides details on the best methods of chain replacement
for their particular units and it is recommended that these be closely followed.
When replacing worn chain with new chain it is advisable to also replace the pocketed wheel(s) as the
pockets will have worn with the chain.
Manufacturer’s Criteria
The certificate of test and examination shall give at least the following information:
The name and address of the manufacturer or his authorised representative, including date of issue
of the certificate and authentication
Number and parts of BS EN 818
Quantity and description of the chain of which the test sample is representative
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Identification of the chain of which the test sample is representative
Nominal size of chain in millimetres
Manufacturing proof force in kilonewtons
Breaking force, in kilonewtons (confirmation of whether this was met or exceeded)
Total ultimate elongation at fracture, as a percentage (i.e. confirmation that the specified minimum
total ultimate elongation has been met or exceeded)
Notes:
37
The load rope requires replacement when inspection shows that its condition has deteriorated and further
use would not be suitable for safety reasons.
By following well-established principles, such as those detailed in various standards, LEEA COPSULE, and
any additional specific instructions provided by the ‘original equipment manufacturer’ (OEM) of the crane
or hoist and/or by the manufacturer of the rope, this criteria should never be exceeded.
When correctly applied, the discard criteria given in full in BS ISO 4309 are aimed at retaining an adequate
safety margin.
38
Definitions
Outer wires: all wires positioned in the outer layer of a spiral rope or in the outer layer of wires in the outer
strands of a stranded rope.
Inner wires: all wires of intermediate layers positioned between the centre wire and outer layer of wires
in a spiral rope or all other wires except centre, filler and outer wires in a stranded rope.
Filler wires: wires used in filler construction to fill up the gaps in between the layers.
Centre wires: wires positioned at the centre of a spiral rope or the centres of strands of a stranded rope.
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Strand Construction
A single wire, known as a king wire (centre wire), is taken and then the remainder of the required number
of wires are twisted around this to form a strand.
Wire sizes and the manner in which they are laid up can be adjusted to give varying performance
characteristics to the rope for different service duties.
6 x 19 means that there are 6 strands each of 19 wires and 6 x 36 means that there are 6 strands each of
36 wires. Both of these are equal lay ropes.
39
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Notes:
Seale Construction
This is a parallel lay strand with the same number of wires in both layers. 40
Filler Construction
A parallel lay strand having an outer layer containing twice the number of wires
than the inner layers with filler wires in the valleys between the layers.
Warrington Construction
A parallel lay strand having an outer layer containing alternately large and small
wires.
You may have noted that previous images of Warrington construction rope in
this module show a 1/6/12 (6 large and 6 small outer wires) however, as long as
the geometry of the outer wires remains the same, there may be alternative numbers of wires in a
particular rope construction.
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Warrington Seale (Combined) Construction
A parallel lay strand having three or more layers laid in one operation and
formed from a combination of the previous strand types.
Notes:
41
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Wire Stranded Core (WSC)
Stranding
The stranding operation takes place when all the wires are brought together at the forming point. Note
that the wires during this and the closing operation are spun in to the correct helical shape, this process is
called preforming. This reduces the internal stresses in the strands and the rope meaning that if the wires
and strands are cut they do not spring out of the rope formation.
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Pre-Forming
During this operation, the strands are now brought together at the forming point around the specified core
to make the rope.
43
The individual wires in the strand are bent into the correct helix before being wound into
position. The strands are then wound into the correct helix, generally the opposite
direction.
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Rope Lay
Rope lay refers to the way in which the wires are laid when forming the strands and the way in which the
strands are laid when forming the rope.
There are 2 types of lay, ordinary (regular) lay and Lang’s lay:
Ordinary Lay
Lang’s lay
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Lang’s Lay
The advantage of Lang’s lay is that this construction offers a much better wearing surface than
ordinary lay
Lang’s lay rope is more flexible than one of ordinary lay
Its disadvantage is that it can only be used in applications where both ends of the rope are secured,
such as a lift or multi-fall hoist. If suspended under load with one end free to turn, such as on a
single fall powered hoist rope, it will un-lay itself
Both ordinary lay and Lang’s lay ropes are usually supplied right-hand lay, but left-hand lay is
available for special applications
Low-Rotating Rope
Although the six strand rope is the most common, there are many exceptions, and the exception is most
likely to be the low-rotating type usually used on cranes or on larger capacity hoists.
All six strand ropes tend to untwist when load is applied to them:
An undesirable characteristic especially on long multi-fall hoist blocks where it can cause the bottom
block to twist
It may be overcome by using what is known as a multi-strand rope, which has low-rotating qualities
by having two or three layers of 7 wire 1-6 strand laid in opposite directions
45
Notes:
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Effect of Rope Rotation
Low-Rotating Rope
The most common type is the 17 x 7 (1-6), which has an outer layer of 11
strands laid over an inner layer of 6 strands, which in turn is laid over a core
strand.
The layers of strands are laid in opposing directions to prevent the rope from
spinning under load.
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Rotation-Resistant Rope (Illustration is 35LS – Low-Rotating Rope)
47
Smooth surface:
Increased fatigue life
Lower contact pressures
Accurate diameter:
Improved spooling
Twin rope systems
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Rope Finish
48
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Rope should always be clean; if this is not
possible, consider electromagnetic wire rope
inspection method, where appropriate.
49
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Wire Rope Examination
The examination of wire ropes should be systematic and follow a logical order so that no part of the rope,
or the accessories and attachments to which it connects are missed. In manual machines, particular
attention is to be taken at the following locations:
Broken Wires
It is usually the number of broken wires developing in a wire rope, which causes its removal from service.
It is essential that the entire length of a wire rope be inspected frequently for broken wire(s), excessive
wear, and lack of lubrication, with particular attention being paid to those areas adjacent to terminal fittings
and where an accelerated rate of wear or corrosion is to be expected, e.g. where a rope passes around
sheaves or pulleys, or is particularly exposed to the elements.
All examinations shall take into account these individual factors, recognising the particular criteria. 50
BS ISO 4309 details the discard criteria for the allowable amount of broken wires, depending upon the
rope category number of the rope (RCN)
Before determining the discard criteria for load ropes under BS ISO 4309, it is necessary to identify the RCN
of the rope.
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Viewing the example from BS ISO 4309 above, we can see that an ordinary-lay rope, categorised as an RCN
02 (single-layer or parallel-closed rope) may have a maximum of 6 broken wires over a length of 6 x its
diameter, or 12 broken wires over a length of 30 x its diameter, in a machine such as a hand operated winch,
utilising a multi-layer drum.
If the RCN number of the load rope cannot be found in annex G of BS ISO 4309, the following method should
be used for calculating the number of allowable broken wires:
Notes:
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Deterioration
In the case of 6 and 8-strand ropes, broken wires usually occur at the external surface.
In the case of rotation-resistant ropes, there is a probability that the majority of broken wires will occur
internally and are “non-visible” fractures.
Note: Students are reminded that access to relevant standards, such as BS ISO 4309, is necessary in order
to carry out thorough examinations correctly.
The Competent Person can find it prudent to initiate or recommend more frequent periodic inspections
than those required by legislation.
Also, depending on the condition of the rope at any time and/or whether there is any change in 52
circumstances, such as an incident or change in operating conditions, the Competent Person can deem it
necessary to reduce or recommend the reduction of the interval between periodic inspections.
Generally, ropes develop broken wires at a greater rate later on in the life of a rope than in the early stages.
Have a look at the following graph which shows two examples of this.
Key:
X = time, in cycles
Y = number of randomly distributed broken wires per unit length
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Broken Wires
In rotation resistant ropes, it is likely that the majority of broken wires will be internal
One broken wire in a valley may be deterioration, but two or more should be considered grounds
for discard
Termination broken wires indicate high stress and therefore discard, although rope can be
shortened if practicable
Example:
53
Notes:
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Calculation of Wear on Rope
Calculation 1
For a 40mm diameter 6 x 36-IWRC rope having a reference diameter of 41.2mm and measuring 39.5mm at
inspection, the percent decrease is equal to.
Formula:
So
(41.2 − 39.5) x 100 = % Wear
40
% Wear = 4.25%
Note: From Table 4, the severity rating for uniform decrease in diameter is 20% towards discard (i.e. slight).
Note: Discard is reached when the rope decreases from reference diameter by an amount equivalent to
7.5% of nominal diameter, i.e. 3mm. In this case, diameter at discard would be 38.2mm.
Calculation 2
For a 40mm diameter 6 x 36-IWRC rope having a reference diameter of 41.2mm and measuring 38.5mm at 54
inspection, the percent decrease is equal to.
Formula:
% Wear = 6.75%
Note: From Table 4, the severity rating is 80% (i.e. very high).
Notes:
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Heating and Arcing Damage
Ropes that are not normally operated at temperature, but have been subjected to exceptionally high
thermal effects, externally recognizable by the associated heat colours produced in the steel wires and/or
a distinct loss of grease from the rope, shall be immediately discarded.
If two or more wires have been affected locally, due to electric arcing, such as that resulting from incorrectly
grounded welding leads, the rope shall be discarded. This can occur at the point where the current enters
or leaves the rope.
Reduction of rope diameter resulting from deterioration of the core can be caused by;
If these factors cause the actual rope diameter to decrease by 3% of the nominal rope diameter for rotation-
resistant ropes, or by 10% for other ropes, the rope shall be discarded even if no broken wires are visible.
Note: New ropes will normally have an actual diameter greater than the nominal diameter.
55
External Wear
Abrasion of the crown wires of outer strands in the rope results from rubbing contact, under pressure, with
the grooves in the sheaves and drums. The condition is particularly evident on moving ropes at points of
sheave contact when the load is being accelerated or decelerated, and is revealed by flat surfaces on the
outer wires.
Wear reduces the strength of ropes by reducing the cross-sectional area of the steel strands. If, due to
external wear, the actual rope diameter has decreased by 7% or more of the nominal rope diameter, the
rope shall be discarded even if no wire breaks are visible.
General
Corrosion occurs particularly in marine and polluted industrial atmospheres. It will diminish the breaking
strength of the rope by reducing the metallic cross-sectional area, and it will accelerate fatigue by causing
surface irregularities which lead to stress cracking. Severe corrosion can cause decreased elasticity of the
rope.
External Corrosion
Corrosion of the outer wires can often be detected visually. Wire slackness due to corrosion attack/steel
loss is justification for immediate rope discard.
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Internal Corrosion
This condition is more difficult to detect than the external corrosion which frequently accompanies it, but
the following indications can be recognized:
a) Variation in rope diameter; In locations where the rope bends around sheaves, a reduction in
diameter usually occurs. However, in stationary ropes it is not uncommon for an increase in
diameter to occur due to the build-up of rust under the outer layer of strands
b) Loss of clearance between the strands in the outer layer of the rope, frequently combined with wire
breaks between or within the strands
Deformation
General
Visible distortion of the rope from its normal shape is termed “deformation” and can create a change at
the deformation position which results in an uneven stress distribution in the rope.
Waviness
Waviness is a deformation in which the longitudinal axis of the wire rope takes the shape of a helix under
either a loaded or unloaded condition. While not necessarily resulting in any loss of strength, such a
deformation, if severe, can transmit a pulsation resulting in irregular rope drive. After prolonged working,
this will give rise to wear and wire breaks.
Waviness 56
The rope shall be discarded if, under any condition, either of the following conditions exists (see Figure 10
below):
a) On a straight portion of rope, which never runs through or around a sheave or spools on to the
drum, the gap between a straight edge and the underside of the helix is 1/3 x d or greater
b) On a portion of rope, which runs through a sheave or spools on to the drum, the gap between a
straight edge and the underside of the helix is 1/10 × d or greater
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Notes:
If the rope diameter increases by 5% or more for a rope with a steel core or 10% or more for a rope with 57
a fibre core during service, the reason for this shall be investigated and consideration given to discarding
the rope.
Note: An increase in rope diameter that might affect a relatively long length of the rope, such as that
resulting from the swelling of a natural fibre core, can occur due to excessive absorption of moisture,
creating imbalance in the outer strands, which become incorrectly oriented.
Other Conditions which affect the safe use of wire are listed below:
(this list is not exhaustive):
Basket or lantern deformation
Core or strand protrusion/distortion
Wire protrusion
Flattened portions
Kinks or tightened loops
Bends
Lubrication
Correct lubrication of wire ropes is essential if the ropes are to give satisfactory service. Good lubrication
not only prolongs the life of the rope but also helps to reduce friction and preserves the internal parts.
All ropes are lubricated internally, and nearly all externally, during manufacture but care should be taken to
see that an approved neutral lubricant is externally applied at frequent intervals during use and, if
practicable, whilst not in use.
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Thinner types of lubricant have the best lubricant qualities but if the rope is constantly exposed to the
elements or to water, the heavy, thicker lubricants are more suitable. For certain applications dry lubricants
may be preferable but in all cases the lubricant must be acid free in nature.
Wire ropes should be clean and dry before lubricants are applied.
Although broken wires are a common reason for discard, deterioration often results from a
combination of factors
o Inspect the rope and record the type and amount of each individual mode of deterioration, e.g.
number of broken wires in 6d, decrease in diameter in millimetres and extent of corrosion
o For each of these individual modes of deterioration, rate the severity and express it either as a
percentage of the respective individual discard criteria, e.g. if 40% of the allowable number of 58
broken wires according to the individual discard criteria are found to exist, this represents a
rating of 40% towards discard, or in words, e.g. slight, medium, high, very high or discard
o Either add together the individual ratings at selected locations, only when they occur at the
same location and express the severity as a combined per cent value or make a judgement as
to the combined degree of severity and express the rating in words, e.g. slight, medium, high,
very high or discard
Notes:
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Rope Examined Record
For each periodic or special examination, the examiner shall provide a record containing
information relating to the examination
(Form 1 – ISO 4309) can be viewed for typical examples of examination records
Clean, dry and non-polluted storage shall be provided to prevent deterioration of rope not in use. Means
shall be provided to enable ropes to be clearly identified with respect to their examination records.
In order that hoist wire ropes may be used for lifting purposes it is generally necessary that end fittings of
one kind or another be attached. This is often achieved by forming an eye that allows for the insertion of a
link etc.
For single part ropes as used on powered hoists there are three ways in which the eye can be
secured:
o Splicing
o Grips
o Ferrule secured eyes
These forms of end termination are rare and usually seen on older hoists
59
Wire rope grips are used in conjunction with a wedge type socket
Notes:
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Spliced Eyes
Splicing: opening the strands at the end of the rope and weaving them between the strands of the standing
part so that they lock and do not slip when a load is applied.
Grips
Practice always been found questionable as safety of the eye depends on several variables: 60
BS462 did not provide torque settings and provide a maximum of 50% efficiency but DIN1142 grips
achieved a maximum grip efficiency achieved of 80%
Note: In Germany, the DIN1142 standard prohibits the use of grips for lifting applications
For LEEA Best Practice Guidelines: See Unit 6-7u page 28.
Notes:
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Ferrule Secured
As with wire rope grips used to form a termination, this method used to be found on older type wire
rope hoists but is now very rare.
Ferrule secured eye made using the turn-back-loop method and securing with a compressed ferrule
forming a homogenous joint
Live side of the load rope enters the straight edge of the socket in
line with the load pin
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Rope to Rope Drum Connection
Rope fastening onto the rope drum shall be made in such a way that at least 2.5 times the remaining
static force at the fastening device is accommodated when the rated capacity of the hoist is applied
to the hoist taking into account the friction effect of the winding on the drum
There shall be at least two rope windings remaining on the drum before the fixing point of the rope
o The fastening elements of the fixing point of the rope shall be selected taking into account
the rope and drum contours
Notes:
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5. Materials
The Competent Person must be familiar with materials and sections used for cranes and their supporting
structures.
BS EN 1993 (Part 6) – applies to crane supporting structures manufactured from rolled steel sections:
The standard provides design rules for the structural design of runway beams and other crane 63
supporting structures
It covers overhead crane runways inside buildings and outdoor crane runways, including runways
for:
o Overhead travelling cranes, either
o Supported on top of the runway beams
o Underslung below the runway beams
o Monorail hoist blocks
Note: The standard does not cover special sections or proprietary track systems.
Notes:
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Steel Section
Competent Person must be able to identify various beam sections by measurement so that design checks
and calculations can be carried out if required.
BS4: 1980
Tapered flanges
RSJ’s 5" x 3" and above are now superseded by universal beams
Notes:
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Universal Beams
Parallel flanges
Universal Column
BS4:2005 65
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Rolled Steel Channel
European Sections
IPE sections
o DIN 1025 66
o EN 19-57 (Dimensions)
o EN 10034 (Tolerances)
A cost-effective alternative to
standard crane rail sections
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Hollow Sections and Tubes
Rail Sections
DIN 536-199
BS EN 13674-1
67
1. S235
2. S275
3. S355
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6. Crane Construction
Crane Bridges
Overhead crane bridges can be constructed in various ways, the most common of which are as follow:
Lattice 68
Rolled Section
Can be used in as stand-alone profiles (e.g. UB or HEA sections) or combined with rolled steel
channels to improve sectional properties, keeping manufacturing costs relatively low
This type of bridge section is most commonly used for low capacity cranes
and/or short span construction
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Box Girder
Generally constructed from sheet steel with internal rolled steel angles to provide support to the
webs of the beam and prevent the plates from buckling
Internal diaphragms in the box make it stronger in vertical and horizontal loading and prevent it
from buckling under load
o This will result in an eccentric loading being applied to the girder which is accommodated by
the high torsional rigidity properties of the structure
69
Some cranes may be split for transportation due to long girder lengths and the availability of
suitable transport modes
Shipping containers are limited to approximately 40 feet long (~12 metres) for overseas
transportation and therefore main girders have to be reduced in length
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7. Crane Configuration
Crane Construction/Configuration
70
Fitted with an under-slung hoist unit (normal or low headroom configuration) and are used
generally for lower capacity or short span applications
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Double Girder Crane
Fitted with a traversing trolley (sometimes referred to as a ‘crab’) mounted between the two
girders on crane rails
Main advantage of the crane running on ground tracks is that an overhead steel gantry is not
required
o Most suitable for outdoor applications where lifting facilities are provided
o No requirement for additional support steelwork and increased cost 71
Also suitable for indoor applications where existing building structures are not capable of taking
overhead travelling cranes or where additional support steelwork would reduce floor area
Notes:
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Semi-Portal Crane (Semi-Goliath)
Configured to run one end carriage of the crane on overhead gantry steelwork
Underslung Crane
In single or double girder configuration and runs on the lower flange of a runway beam that is mounted to
an overhead supporting structure.
72
In single or double girder configuration and runs on the lower flange of a runway beam that is
mounted to an overhead supporting structure
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Manually Operated Cranes
BS EN 13157 refers to cranes – safety – hand powered winches and is relevant to manually
operated overhead travelling cranes
Primary drive for the long travel and cross traverse can be a simple push system or manually geared
Push travel cranes are limited to the amount of force that an individual would have to apply to the
load in order to control its movement
Manually geared cranes allow heavier loads to be moved but the amount of force applied still
needs to be restricted to the capabilities of the individual
The system will move the load slowly which makes them ideally suited for maintenance only
applications
73
Notes:
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8. End Carriages
74
End Carriages
The main girder(s) of a crane can be fitted to the end carriages by one of two common methods:
Top connection
Side connection
The decision as to which method is used is normally the preferred method of the manufacturer and/or
technical constraints (work envelope).
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Typical End Carriage to Bridge Connections
Skew Loading
Notes:
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Consequence of Skew Loading
Bolts used for bridge to end carriage connections should be of a minimum grade 8.8
o In side mounted applications, manufacturers use a higher grade bolt due to increased
tension and shear stresses. Grade 10.9 would be typical in this configuration
Due to inherent vibrations within the crane, bolted connections must be formed so that the nuts
are prevented from coming loose
o ‘Nyloc’ nuts, full nut/half nut locking, serrated washers or split washers are used for this
purpose 76
Note: When replacing or fitting connection bolts it is imperative that the manufacturers’ instructions are
followed with regard to type and torque settings.
Each end carriage should be fitted with buffers to prevent the crane from heavy impact with the
gantry end stops
It is usual that the long travel motion of a power driven overhead crane will have electrical limit
switches fitted in the control circuit of the travel motions
End carriage buffers are usually made from rubber and polyurethane
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Buffer Extensions
Used to extend the length of the end carriage but not the wheelbase
o Can be used to keep multiple cranes at a certain distance away from each other on the
same gantry
o They also accommodate the width of maintenance platforms on the crane and can also be
used to limit crane wheel loadings in a particular span of the gantry beam
Anti-Collision
Machinery Directive s4.1.2.6: Where several fixed or rail mounted machines can be manoeuvred
simultaneously in the same place, with risks of collision, such machinery must be designed and constructed
in such a way as to make it possible to fit systems enabling these risks to be avoided.
Para. 342 Guidance: The risk of collision may exist when machines are used in the same area, such as, e.g. 77
when two or more gantry cranes are installed in the same building. For lifting machinery intended to be
used where this risk may exist, the manufacturer must ensure that the necessary anti-collision devices can
be fitted to the machinery and provide the necessary fitting instructions.
Machinery Directive s3.6.1: Remote control machinery which, under normal conditions of use, exposes
persons to the risk of impact or crushing must be fitted with appropriate means to signal its movements or
with means to protect persons against such risks.
Para. 323 Guidance: Where there is a risk of collision between remote controlled or driver-less machinery
and persons. Such machinery must be equipped with appropriate means to signal its movements such as
acoustic and/or visual warning devices.
*We will revisit the subject of limit switches later in this training course
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Derailment Facility
Machinery must be provided with devices that act on the guide rails or tracks to prevent derailment
o If despite such devices, there remains a risk of derailment or failure of a rail or running
component (wheel flange) devices must be provided which prevent the equipment,
component or load from falling or the machinery from overturning
Guide Rollers
Torque Brackets
Used to prevent the starting torque of the motor putting undue stress on mounting bolts and gearbox
connections:
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Storm Locks
Portal and Semi-Portal cranes must be fitted with storm locks where wind loadings could move the crane
along its tracks when not in operation.
79
Notes:
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9. Hoist Construction
Irrespective of the manufacturer, the new generation of hoist units all tend to be very similar in their
construction. In an extremely competitive industry, electric wire rope hoists must provide performance,
reliability, flexibility, satisfy the BS and ISO requirements, and be reasonably priced.
The earliest of these designs dates back some twenty-five years to a period when a lot of research and 80
development was done.
In more recent times standard unit engineering practices have been adopted which enable a wide range of
units to be produced from a small range of standard components. However, the general design principles
remain the same.
Notes:
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Definitions and Terminology
Extended Dimension
The extended dimension is the distance between the support
level and the bottom hook seat in the extended position, as
shown opposite:
Drawn up Dimension
The drawn-up dimension is the distance between the support
level and the bottom hook seat when the bottom hook is in the
raised position.
Range of Lift
The range of lift is the vertical distance which the bottom hook
travels between the extended and drawn up positions
Electrical Supply 81
Electric chain hoists usually require a 3 phase AC supply current.
Some of the lower capacity models are available with single phase
or low voltage motors.
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Basic Components
1. Pendant controller
2. Control panel
3. Brake
4. Motor
5. Gearbox
6. Rope drum
7. Rope Guide and pressure arm
8. Rope end clamps
9. Dead end anchor
10. Load rope
11. Return sheave and pulley block assembly
12. Load hook
13. Radio/Infra-red remote controller
General Operation
In this older, coaxial type wire rope hoist, power is transmitted from the motor (1), via a transmission shaft 82
(2) which connects to the motor using a spider coupling (3), through to the gearbox input pinion (4) and
onto a drive pinion to a splined drive gear inside the rope drum (5).
Note: The hoist brake (6) is situated on the hoist gearbox as opposed to the hoist motor.
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General Arrangement
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New Generation Hoist Design
Irrespective of the manufacturer, the new generation of hoist units all tend to be very similar in their
construction. In an extremely competitive industry, blocks must provide performance, reliability, flexibility,
satisfy the BS and ISO requirements and be reasonably priced.
By rotating the component parts around a common axis a very compact hoist unit has been developed.
84
General Operation
The drive motor is mounted inside the hoist drum. The drive is then transmitted via a coupling to the hoist
gearbox, which is totally enclosed. On this model, the electro-magnetic hoist brake is of the disc type. Other
models may incorporate a tapered rotor motor and conical brake unit.
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General Arrangement
Note that the drive motor is located inside the rope drum which saves space and the fan on the motor
drives cooling air through the rope drum which improves cooling efficiency. The hoist motor and brake are
accessible outside of the drum.
General Operation
General Arrangement
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Notes:
The lever operated, electro-mechanical load limiting device illustrated below prevents the hoist from
overload. When load is applied, the pivoting load arm is pulled down towards the operating micro-switch
and the calibration is set by a pack of spring washers.
When the load exceeds the set limit, the micro-switch will operate and stop the ‘up’ motion, only allowing
the operator to lower.
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Electric wire rope hoists are suitable for a wide variety of purposes. For all applications, initial consideration
should be given to the following:
Capacity
Range of lift
Speed(s)
Duty classification
Suspension
Operating level(s)
Availability and suitability of power supply, including protection and isolation facilities
Service conditions
Nature of load
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The documentation required by legislation (EC Declaration of Conformity or report of thorough
examination as appropriate). If this is not on record refer the hoist to a Competent Person for
thorough examination
Note: It should be recognised that power operated hoists are designed to lift in the vertical plane only. The
application should be fully discussed with the supplier to ensure that the correct equipment is selected.
Service Conditions
Standard electric chain hoists are manufactured to meet normal service conditions and assume:
Use under cover, i.e. not directly exposed to the elements
Use at ambient temperatures between -10°C and 40°C without high local heating or cooling
Use in clean air free from excess of humidity, contamination and deposits
Environmental Conditions
Examples of environmental conditions requiring special attention are:
Outdoor use
Salt air
High humidity
Ambient temperatures above or below the normal range
The presence of local heat sources, e.g. furnaces
Dust/abrasives in the atmosphere
Hazardous Substances
Hazardous substances fall into two main groups; those that would harm the hoist or its associated electrical
equipment, e.g. corrosives; and those that may be affected by the operation of the hoist, e.g. explosives.
Examples of hazardous substances requiring special attention are: 87
Flammable or explosive gases, vapours or dust
Corrosive vapours and liquids
Volatile liquids
Toxic substances
Molten metal
The manufacturer’s or supplier’s specific advice should be sought if power operated hoists are to be
operated in an acidic or alkaline environment. Such conditions can cause stress corrosion cracking for
example on some types of chain (hydrogen embrittlement)
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Notes:
Standards
88
Electromagnetic Compatibility
Hoists shall be in accordance with BS EN 60204-32:
The hoist must not generate electromagnetic disturbances that will interfere with other machinery,
and additionally, it must have a level of immunity from being affected by other machinery creating
electromagnetic disturbances
Electrical Supply
The hoist shall be designed such that it operates reliably in the event of a voltage drop at the hoist
of up to 5% between no-load operation and the peak current of the largest motor
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Electrical Disconnection
The electrical equipment of a hoist shall contain devices for the following functions:
Isolation of the electrical equipment from the mains power supply so that work may be performed
without the risk of electric shock or burning
Switching-off in the event of emergency switching off or emergency stop
Standards 89
The following standards are applicable to electric chain hoists and this module:
BS EN 14492 – Power driven winches and hoists – Part 2 – Power Driven Hoists.
This standard covers pneumatic, hydraulic and electrically powered hoists, using chain, wire rope and belts
as lifting media.
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Connections and individual components of hoists shall incorporate features so that they cannot
self-loosen
Moving transmission parts (shafts, fans, wheels, gears, belts, couplings) shall be designed,
positioned or guarded in order to protect against the risks associated with possible contact of
exposed persons during the intended use
Control Devices
Devices for starting and stopping manually-controlled hoists shall be fitted with ‘hold-to-run’
control elements so that the power supply is interrupted when the actuating elements are released
(usually a pendant control station)
Electromagnetic Compatibility
Hoists shall be in accordance with EN 60204-32:
o The hoist must not generate electromagnetic disturbances that will interfere with other
machinery, and additionally, it must have a level of immunity from being affected by other
machinery creating electromagnetic disturbances
Notes:
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Overload Protection
Hoists manufactured since the Machinery Directive came into force and which have a WLL of 1 tonne or
more or which are installed such that the overturning moment is 40,000Nm or more, must be fitted with
devices to warn the operative and prevent dangerous movements of the load in the event of overload or
of the moments conducive to overturning being exceeded.
Older equipment may not be fitted with such devices and we recommend that, if not, consideration is given
to upgrading it.
Overload protection devices take different forms but may usually be set so that a load up to the proof load
can be lifted or to allow a load in excess of the SWL but less than the proof load to be raised. This protects
the hoist from accidental overloading but allows for variations in the imposed load due to dynamic loading.
Electric wire rope hoists can be protected from the worst effects of physical overload in several ways
depending on the design of the appliance.
Overload protection devices take different forms but may usually be set so that a load up to the proof load
can be lifted or to allow a load in excess of the SWL but less than the proof load to be raised. This protects
the hoist from accidental overloading but allows for variations in the imposed load due to dynamic loading.
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Load measuring or sensing devices are used to prevent physical overload by stopping the appliance
operating if the load exceeds that intended. At one time these were not generally fitted as standard but
since the implementation of the European Machinery Directive, they have become a standard feature of
many appliances.
Note 1: A ‘direct acting’ RCL act directly in the chain of the drive elements of the chain hoist, for example,
a slipping clutch (friction torque limiters)
Note 2: ‘Indirect’ RCLs measure the load using a sensor and switch off the energy supply for the lifting
operation. This usually engages the hoist brake simultaneously.
Notes:
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For safety reasons, to prevent the bottom hook ‘over travelling’ and causing damage to the hoist,
a hoisting or upper limit is used
For modern hoist units it is a mandatory requirement of EN 14992-2 to have upper and lower limits
fitted that conform to the minimum requirements of EN 12077-2. In the case of a power operated
hoist found in-service and not fitted with a bottom limit, it is advisable that one is fitted
The type of limit used will depend on the hoist design and may be a mechanical device, e.g. a
slipping clutch, or an electro mechanical device which uses a mechanical method of actuating a
limit switch
Whichever type is used, hoist limits are not intended for regular use, they must be considered as
emergency safety devices. There are several electro-mechanical methods of actuating a limit which
all utilize the movement of the mechanism to disconnect the power to the motor and thereby apply
the brake
In most cases, hoisting and lowering limits are easily reset by reversing the direction of the hoist
however in some cases manual resetting may be necessary
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Lowering Limit Requirement
The lowering limiter shall ensure that the minimum engagement of the lifting medium is maintained at all
times during operation, e.g. minimum of 3 turns of the rope on the rope drum. The lowering limiter shall
also stop the motion to prevent unwanted coiling in the reverse direction.
A risk assessment based on the particular application may result in the need of a second limiter for certain
motions. This second limiter shall not be approached during normal operation, whereas the first limiter can
be approached during normal operation.
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Note: Based upon the risk assessment, a second limiter may be necessary, for example when the hoisting
limiter is activated with regularity and this limiter is not designed for regularity.
Once a second limit has been activated, a restart of the hoist should only be possible once the limit has
been manually reset, e.g. by using a key-lockable reset on the control station or a manual reset on the
hoist. This is due to the fact that the primary limit has failed, therefore the reason has to be investigated
as it should have operated under normal circumstances.
Emergency Stop
The standard requires the fitting of an emergency stop function which is to be available at all times
o The emergency stop must override all other functions and operations of the hoist
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Hoist Brakes
Brakes should be fitted to the hoist, enabling the load to be arrested at any point during the lifting
operation should any of the following occur:
The operator releases a hoist/lower control button, returning to the neutral position
The emergency stop is pressed and activated
The external power supply to the brake is interrupted
The power supply to the hoist motor is interrupted or switched off
2 x phases of the power supply to the hoist motor are interrupted (3 phase motors)
The general principle of “power off = brake on” shall be used in all cases (fail-safe)
Notes:
93
Hooks
Load hooks must be designed so that they prevent unintentional displacement of the load. This can be
done by either of the following methods:
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Rope Drives
The fleet angle (indicated below by Angle ß) for grooved drums and rope sheaves should not exceed 4° for
all ropes and 2° for rotation-resistant rope.
94
Fleet Angle
If a rope enters a sheave under a fleet angle, it will first touch the flange and then roll down into the bottom
of the groove, twisting the wire rope slightly every time.
If the rope enters the sheave at a fleet angle of 1° it will touch the flange in a very deep position and will
only be twisted by 5°. If the rope enters the same sheave at a fleet angle of 5°, it will touch the flange at a
very high position and will be twisted by up to 50°.
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Rope Drums
The design of the electric wire rope hoist must ensure that the load rope cannot run off the side of the rope
drum.
Note: Suitable preventative measures on drums could include, for example, flanged drum end plates,
frame/housing, or rope guides.
Rope Drives
Flanged drum end plates shall protrude beyond the rope wound on the drum at the top layer by at
least 1.5 x the nominal rope diameter
The fixing point of the rope shall be easily accessible for maintenance and replacement of the rope
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Wire Rope Sheaves
Rope fastening onto the rope drum shall be made in such a way that at least 2.5 times the
remaining static force at the fastening device is accommodated when the rated capacity of the
hoist is applied to the hoist taking into account the friction effect of the winding on the drum.
There shall be at least two rope windings remaining on the drum before the fixing point of the rope
o The fastening elements of the fixing point of the rope shall be selected taking into account
the rope and drum contours
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Anchorages on the rope shall resist 2.5 times the static rope
force resulting from the rated capacity of the hoist without
permanent deformation
Wire rope grips and rope eyes in conjunction with wire rope
grips cannot be used as rope-end terminations!
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Environmental Protection
In steam-laden atmospheres, such as dye houses and laundries, special precautions are necessary
to limit corrosion. Consideration should therefore be given to the use of galvanised wire rope and
additional lubrication points
Notes:
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Information to be Supplied by the Manufacturer
The manufacturer must provide operating instructions containing information and instructions for the
commissioning, use, regular examination and maintenance of electrically operated chain hoists. The
following information should also be included:
The use for which the hoist mechanism is intended shall be clearly described
o Warnings shall be provided with regard to misuse of the hoists which, according to
experience, may occur
o This information should include any limitations of the design, for example the intended
duration of service
Information about the operation of the hoist and lower limits and their periodic inspection
Maintenance and repair work required to ensure the safe functioning of the hoist unit
o Including inspection and lubrication requirements, operating principles, safety devices etc.
Marking
Electric wire rope hoists are to be marked with the following information:
CE Mark
Business name and address of the manufacturer 98
Designation of the machinery
Type designation
Identification number, if any
Year of manufacture
Explosion proof class (if applicable)
IP rating
Safe working load
Range of lift
Group of mechanisms
Details of lifting media, wire rope construction and minimum breaking force
Power supply information, voltage, phase(s), frequency, rated flow (hydraulics) and rated pressure
(pneumatics)
Motor size (kW)
Rated hoisting speed
Rated traverse speed if fitted with combined trolley
Note: If manufacturer does not provide a unique identification mark, then the owner of the equipment will
be responsible for ensuring that the equipment is marked with one.
Notes:
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Information which Should be Exchanged Between the User and Designer or Supplier
As electric power-operated hoists are frequently used for miscellaneous lifting purposes, precise details of
the load to be lifted are not always available. In these circumstances, only a general specification can be
given and this should include the following information:
It may subsequently be found that a more detailed exchange of information is necessary to ensure the 99
correct selection. For all but the simplest or repeat installations, a visit by the supplier to survey the site
should always be considered as this will minimize the information exchange and reduce the chance of
incorrect selection.
Further technical information may be required by the user at the time of installation or for maintenance
purposes. It will be contained in the manufacturer’s operations and maintenance handbook, which will be
supplied with the hoist, and does not otherwise form part of the information exchange.
Pre-Use-Checks
In-Service Inspection
In addition to the statutory thorough examination by a Competent Person, electric wire rope hoists should
be visually inspected by a Responsible Person prior to use or on a regular basis, taking account of the
conditions of service and statutory requirements. The inspection should include the fixings, suspension
points and supporting structures, guidance on the in-service inspection of runways, slewing jib cranes and
mobile gantries is given in further sections of this code and reference should also be made to BS 7121-2.
The inspection should include the following points in addition to any specific checks recommended by the
supplier:
If any of the following faults are found, the hoist should be withdrawn from service and referred to a
Competent Person.
Signs of wear, deformation or damage to hooks, trolleys or other terminal or suspension fittings
Hook safety latch damaged or inoperative. In the event of the latch appearing to be too short, this
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is an indication of the hook having opened out and may be the result of the hoist being overloaded
Signs of wear and fretting corrosion to screw threaded shanks
Load slips when hoisting or load will not lift although motor is running
Load stops midway through a lifting cycle. In this case, where possible action must be taken to
lower the load. If this cannot be done, the area must be cordoned off to prevent anyone
approaching
Hoist will not operate although power is on
Spasmodic or erratic lifting operation and similar symptoms on the travel motion
Trolley slips or skids on the runway
Damage to any electric cable or cable gland
Damage to the pendant control hand set including cable, rubber covers, legends or labels and
support wire, chain or cord
Excessive noise or unusual sounds from any part of the hoist, including motor, clutch, gearbox or
brake
Travel and/or hoist motions operate in opposite direction to control indication
Load continues to travel excessive distance after motion control has been released
Load rope worn or damaged, in particular any increase or decrease in diameter, opening of strands,
kinks or broken wires. Any signs of mechanical damage such as flattening, crushing, cuts, burring
and corrosion. Faults are most likely to occur at the terminations and where the rope passes over
sheaves and pulleys, in particular compensating sheaves
Wire rope does not feed onto the drum correctly or winds in the wrong direction in relation to the
control direction selected
Damaged or worn rope guides and bands
Signs of damage or distortion of the anchorage points or of the wire rope pulling through any
clamping devices
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When bottom hook is fully extended to its lowest working position, there are less than 2 full turns
of rope remaining on the drum
o Under no circumstances must there be less than 2 full turns of rope remaining on the drum
but consult the manufacturer’s instructions as with some units 3 full turns must remain
Wire rope is cabled, i.e. multiple falls of rope are twisted together
Further guidance on inspection procedure and rejection criteria for wire rope is given in BS ISO 4309, BS
EN 12385-3 and BS 7121-2.
Legal Requirements
The definition of lifting equipment and accessories used in LOLER make it clear that power operated chain
hoists are lifting equipment.
Unless a written scheme of examination, drawn up by a Competent Person, is in place and operating they
must be thoroughly examined by a Competent Person at intervals not exceeding 12 months.
Reports of thorough examination should be retained and cross referenced to the hoists historical records
for inspection by the Competent Person or HSE.
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For some applications, it may also be necessary to have the installation thoroughly examined by a
Competent Person before the hoist is put into service.
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(a) after installation and before being put into service for the first time
and
(b) after assembly and before being put into service at a new site or in a new location, to ensure that it has
been installed correctly and is safe to operate
Note: Although not required by legislation, new power operated hoists will usually be issued with a
manufacturer’s record of proof load testing in addition to, although possibly combined with, the EC
Declaration of Conformity. This document forms an important part of the record of the hoist. It should be
retained and cross referenced to the hoists historical records for inspection by the Competent Person or
HSE.
The examinations shall be carried out in adequate natural or artificial light
The machine shall be clean or cleaned and free from rust to enable a proper visual examination of
all parts to be carried out
The examination shall be carried out by a competent person in accordance with the schedule of
requirements aligned to the employers’ quality policy and site procedures reference material and
LEEA’s Technical Requirements/ COPSULE which are available to support them
Where appropriate the standard procedures of examination, checking of hooks, chain sizes, pitch
and diameter of wires and allowable wear and stretch shall be those recommended by the product
manufacturer
o Further criteria may also be given in British Standards, LEEA technical publications and in
the LEEA correspondence courses 102
Parts shall be exposed and examined sufficiently to enable a proper conclusion as to their condition
to be reached and reported on. Where necessary parts must be dismantled and cleaned to achieve
this
The operation of mating parts must be checked and observed, e.g. a load rope, rope drum (as detailed in
Module 3 of this course), rope guide and pressure band, brakes (as detailed in Module 13) and other vital
mechanisms must be checked for safe and correct operation.
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The assembly of parts, reeving and anchorages must be checked for correctness and
proper operation and all locking and securing devices must be checked as being sound
and in place
All power supply, current collecting systems, ‘fail safe’ mechanisms, limit
mechanisms, protective and running equipment must be examined for
correctness, safety and proper operation
The identification number and WLL/SWL shall be checked with the last Report
of Thorough Examination or the Certificate of Conformity, and where markings
have become illegible be re-stamped or marked
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The written report is to provide a description of the article examined, the date of the examination
and a clear statement of its fitness for further use or details of the defects which affect the
WLL/SWL and other observations
Training
It is of paramount importance that lifting equipment inspectors or examiners do not work on live
electrical equipment. Lock-out/Tag-out routines should always be considered as part of your risk
assessment.
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Pulleys
The shape of the pulley groove is shown below. The finish must always be smooth, with sharp edges
removed to reduce the risk of accidental damage to the rope.
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Drums and Pulleys
The diameter around which the rope is bent and the depth and shape e.g. pulley and drum grooves
that support the rope must be carefully considered
o Check the condition of all sheave and drum grooves to ensure that they are capable of
accepting the size of the new rope, do not contain any irregularities, such as corrugations,
and have sufficient remaining thickness to safely support the rope
o For optimal performance, the effective sheave groove diameter should be larger than the
nominal rope diameter by about 5 % to 10 %, and ideally, at least 1 % greater than the
actual diameter of the new rope
For those ropes that are subjected to multi-layer spooling, apply a back-tension to the rope during
installation that is equivalent to about 2 ½ % to 5% of the minimum breaking force of the rope. This
helps to ensure that the rope on the bottom layer is tightly wound, forming a firm base for
succeeding layers
Sheave Gauges
How to Determine the Amount of Wear Using a Wire Rope Sheave Gauge
Use a wire rope sheave gauge to regularly check sheave grooves for wear, which may slow or block a wire
rope:
105
1. Place the proper size gauge in the sheave
2. Shine a light behind the gauge
3. Check for light between the gauge and the root of the groove. If you detect light, replace or re-tool
the sheave
Wire rope will wear the bottom of the sheave groove to a radius smaller than the radius of the sheave. To
determine the amount of wear, place the proper size gauge in the sheave and shine a light behind the gauge.
Light should not be detected between the gauge and the root of the groove. If wear is evident, the sheave
should be re-machined or replaced.
LEEA Sheave gauges are available online at www.leeaint.com from the web shop.
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Rope Drum Helix Wear
Check manufacturers tolerances which are usually stated for dimensions A and B.
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11. Power Feed Systems
Electricity is the most common form of power used with lifting appliances. It is used on blocks, winches,
trolleys and cranes to provide power for both lifting and travelling or slewing motions.
Although examples of DC supply appliances still exist, AC supply is considered to be the norm. Most types
107
of electric power operated lifting appliances are available for three phase operation. Single phase and low
voltage hoists and winches are available in the lower capacities and some types of vehicle winches are
available for battery operation.
Pneumatic power operation is used on hoists, trolleys, winches and some cranes. It is less efficient and more
difficult to carry to the appliance than electricity. For this reason, it is less common in general use than
electricity, but it has many advantages making it more suitable for certain applications.
Hydraulic power is the least common form of power operation associated with lifting appliances, usually
being restricted to special purpose equipment and to some types of winch.
The use of electricity is highly developed throughout industry. It has the advantage over other forms of
power of being more readily available and is easily carried from the power source to the appliance by cable
or bus-bar conductor systems.
As a result, electricity is the most common form of power associated with general purpose lifting appliances.
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The dangers associated with electricity are well known and there is much experience in
protection to guard against them and in overcoming them. It is necessary to protect the
operative from the dangers of electric shocks, either by insulation or by the use of low voltages.
Single phase and low voltage drives are less common in lifting appliances and are restricted to the lower
capacity items due to the difficulties associated in providing motors of adequate capacities and ratings. It is
therefore more normal to protect the operative by the use of low voltage control circuits as it is in this area
that the main danger to the operative exists.
The current supply should include a means of isolating the equipment from the power source. In practice,
switch fuses and isolators are used to fulfil this requirement. The isolator, which is considered to be part of
the supply system, should be positioned at the start of the conductor system so that the system will be
isolated from the power source as well as the appliance.
Electricity has the disadvantage of requiring special protection in certain environments, e.g. explosive
atmospheres, and steps are necessary to contain the danger within the appliance. Such explosion proof 108
appliances and their power feed systems are far more expensive than standard equipment. They tend to be
heavy and bulky and armoured cable offers little flexibility making travel difficult.
Various types of conductor systems may be used to carry the supply to travelling hoists and cranes.
The main factory supply is taken to a point adjacent to the equipment and terminated with a switch
fuse/isolator. The power feed to the actual hoist or crane is then taken from this in one of several ways.
There are five basic power feed systems that are commonly used for electrically powered hoists:
1. Coiled cable
2. Cable reeling drum
3. Festoon cables
4. Insulated conductors
5. Energy chain cable carriers
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In the past, bare copper conductors were used to provide a power supply for overhead travelling cranes.
They are no longer considered suitable in all cases and are not used for new power supply installations. We
will consider these systems and the limitations/dangers they present.
Although this system is considered unsuitable for new installations nowadays, it was widely used in the past
on all types of installations. Many of these old installations may still be found in service.
The owner has a responsibility under section 2 of the Health and Safety at Work Act to provide safe
systems of work and it is his responsibility to change this if it is considered necessary.
109
In this system copper wires are stretched parallel to the beam by means
of strainer screws with insulators. A collector bracket is fitted to the hoist
on which are mounted the collectors.
The most common form of collector is the bronze roller, graphite bushed,
thus providing good electrical contact and bearing surfaces. Each
collection shaft is insulated from the collector bracket.
For long runs the wires are supported on porcelain reels, the collectors
lifting the wires off the reels as they pass over them.
As bare copper wires are not generally recommended they have been
superseded by safer and more efficient systems.
Coiled Cable
In the coiled cable the conductors are contained in a PVC compound insulate which is coiled in a similar
manner to a tension spring. The cable is fixed to a swivelling bracket on the side plate of the trolley with
the supply end fixed at a convenient point adjacent to the runway.
As the hoist is moved along the runway so the cable expands, when the hoist is moved back so the cable
contracts. This type of cable is suitable where only short travel distances are required due to the sag in the
cable. The normal extension ratio of such a cable is 3 to 1 with a nominal 3 metres extended length.
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Cable Reeling Drum
Slip Rings
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Cable Reeling Drum
Since a reeling drum spiral wound spring does not provide a constant
torque, spring selection is very important.
The cable should not be overloaded by too great a tension or have too
much slack, nor should the appliance run back (a possible hazard with
coiled cables and reeling drums if used in association with light weight
push/pull trolleys).
Before a drum can be selected the cable size must be determined taking a number of factors into account:
Voltage Drop - Unless it is otherwise stated it is usual to work to IEE Regulations which state that
voltage drop shall not exceed 5% of the rated voltage based on the normal operating current
Temperature Correction - Generally for ambient temperatures above 30°C the continuous rated
current capacities should be eliminated
Reeling Configurations - Rated cable capacities should be further de-rated according to the
configuration of the reel to be chosen
Short Time Rated Motors - In many cases the motors on a lifting appliance may be short time rated
thus allowing cable carrying capacities to be increased
Note: Although not expected to design electrical power supply systems the Tester and Examiner would be
expected to understand the fundamental requirements of a system to enable him for example to identify
the reason for a performance deficiency of a hoist under test.
111
Notes:
Cable Selection
In practice the cable would be selected based on the criteria discussed against
technical data provided for a particular product.
An example of cable selection will be discussed in the next section (Festoon Cable
Systems) since it could apply to both systems.
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Festoon Cables
Taut Wire
The taut wire system is suitable for light duties over lengths not exceeding 30 metres and is simple and
economical to install. The strainer wire is made taut by means of straining screws whilst the cable is carried
on trolleys.
Festoon Trolleys
112
Festoon Cables
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Tracked Cable Systems
When a mobile pendant push button box is fitted the festoon cable will terminate in the pendant control
box from which is suspended the push button box by means of the pendant cable.
113
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Typical components of a tracked festoon cable supply:
A limiting factor of the festoon system could be loss of travel of the hoist unit due to bunching of the trolleys
especially on long track applications.
114
Typical mobile pendant push button box assembly and connection to the pendant connection box on the
festoon:
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115
Hoist Control
With the majority of electric hoists the contactor panel is mounted on the main frame and therefore travels
with the hoist. It is recommended practice that control voltages should not exceed 115 volts which is
achieved by transforming down from a single phase of the three phase supply. The low voltage control
signals are transmitted via the push button box and multicore pendant cable to the hoist contactor panel.
Pendant Cables
Pendant cables may have as many as 25 separate cores depending on the number of push buttons/motions
required. The modern pendant cable has two independent strainer wires built in to support itself and the
weight of the push button box.
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Insulated Conductors
Shrouded conductor systems are of various cross sections and the conductor bar is sufficiently shrouded
with a PVC cover to ensure finger safety yet provide access for a collector shoe to pick up the current.
116
The collection assembly is spring loaded to ensure good contact with the conductor bar and articulated to
enable the contact shoe to follow the track without binding.
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Totally Enclosed Conductor Systems
A totally enclosed conductor system is used where multiple conductors are required in one housing. It is a
rigid and compact system. They are commonly used in overhead crane applications but also for traveling
hoists.
117
The illustration below shows how the fully enclosed conductor head collects the power from the enclosed
bus-bars and feeds this direct to the hoist.
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The merits of shrouded conductor systems are a much greater protection against accidental contact and a
suitability for long runs since intermediate feeders can be added.
These systems are available up to 300 amps. They are however unsuitable for flame proof or similar
applications.
Expansion
With any rigid system particular attention must be paid to expansion and expansion couplings fitted, in
accordance with manufacturers recommendations, if problems are to be avoided.
With the shrouded conduction system the power feed need not be connected to one end. By connecting in
the centre rather than to one end voltage drop is halved and by connecting a power feed to each end the
voltage drop is halved again.
Cross bars along the length of the carrier can be opened from 118
the outside, so that cables can be easily inserted and plugs
connected.
Besides only bending in one plane due to the rigid jointed structure, cable carriers also often only permit
bending in one direction.
In combination with rigid mounting of the ends of the carrier, this can prevent the enclosed cables from
flopping in undesired directions and becoming tangled or crushed.
Cable carriers are used anywhere on cranes where moving components require power, control and
communication power feeds in a flexible media.
Energy Chain cable carriers are quiet in operation, lightweight and provide covered cable design and that
can be quickly opened. They can be used in extreme conditions such as heat-resistant or clean room
environments.
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Compressed Air Supply Systems
The production of a clean, dry supply of compressed air suitable for pneumatic power operated
lifting appliances is expensive and it is less easily carried from the power source to the appliance
than electricity
Due to these reasons, its use is more limited than that of electricity
Although electric power operated lifting appliances are the usual choice for general purposes,
pneumatic power operated appliances have advantages for certain applications as most of the
dangers associated with electricity do not exist with compressed air
It can therefore be used in atmospheres where electric equipment would require special insulation
and protection to contain the danger
119
Once the load increases beyond the design load of the motor, it
will stall and, unlike an electric motor, it will not be harmed by
this.
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Compressed air is less efficient than electricity. It contains a high
proportion of moisture which has to be removed.
Whilst motors will purge and expel this moisture when in operation,
condensation will occur when the motor is idle. This will lead to
corrosion and contamination of residual lubricants unless steps are
taken to prevent this.
Pneumatic appliances usually exhaust spent air to atmosphere direct from the motor. Although
compressed air is generally considered to be less dangerous than electricity, some dangers do exist. Small
leaks are usually harmless, though expensive. However, in dusty environments exhausting air and leaks can
cause particles to be propelled through the air and be a hazard to eyes etc.
Inspection/Examination
Most burns are caused by vibrations or defective collector mechanisms. Wires must not be greased as this 120
will cause arcing.
Coiled Cable
Check PVC cover for cracks in the insulation especially at terminations. Replace if cracked or damaged.
Check security of terminations, cable glands etc.
Festoon Systems
Check taut wire anchors and runners for free movement. If a track system, inspect each joint section is tight
and properly closed up. Inspect cable for cracking, check for loose trolley clamps. Additionally, in the case
of festoon control systems, check pendant control box is running freely, festoon and pendant connections
are secure. Check pendant secure to push button box. Check operation of buttons including any emergency
stop and key switch etc.
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General
All power feeds must terminate at a fused, lockable isolator. This should have good access from the shop
floor and be clearly identified. The isolator is considered to be part of the power feed system and should
also be carefully examined for correct operation.
When examining a supply system, hoist or crane, the isolator should be locked off with an approved locking
mechanism for safety.
It is of paramount importance that lifting equipment inspectors or examiners do not work on live
equipment. Lock-out/Tag-out routines should always be considered as part of your risk assessment and
equipment must be checked by a Competent Person to confirm power supplies are isolated before work
commences.
Notes: 121
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12. Motion Limit Switches
Mechanical
Electrical
Electro-Mechanical
*Hoists shall be fitted with hoisting and lowering limiters in accordance with EN 12077-2:1998, 5.6.1.
(Cranes safety – Requirements for health and safety)
If lowering, care needs to be taken because over-lowering will result in the bottom block being lifted
but with no hoist limit to prevent block to block impact
*Reference taken from BS EN 14492:2006 +A1 2009 Cranes – Power driven winches and hoists – Part 2
(Hoists) section 5.2.4.1
Note: Lower limit needs to account for minimum engagement of load-rope or chain on the machine at its
lowest point of travel.
122
A common with electric wire rope hoists for control of upper and lower hook positions
The mechanism comprises a bar, spring loaded into the neutral position. The bar carries two stops
which are actuated by the rope guide as it moves along the drum and reaches the upper or lower
limits of travel
Two micro switches are situated at the end. When the bar is moved by the guide contacting a stop,
one micro switch is depressed, stopping the motor and applying the brake
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The mechanism is reset by operating the block in the opposite direction
On most hoists the micro switches are easily accessible for maintenance and adjustment
Limit Switch
Limit Operation
123
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Weighted Lever
In operation, the knock off weight assembly is suspended from lever arm and is
raised by the bottom block of the hoist which in turn rotates the shaft and a cam.
The rotation of the cam opens a limit switch and the hoist (UP) contactor drops
out, the motor is then de‑energised and the hoist brake applied.
The mechanism is situated beneath the hoist and is readily accessible for
maintenance and adjustment.
Hook Operated
124
Hook operated limit switch trips hoisting movement when hook reaches the adjustable lever
With automatic reset hoisting movement is possible again after tripping as soon as hook has been
lowered from the switching area
Hook operated limit switches with automatic resets can be used as a working limit before standard
upper limit tripping height
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Rotary Limits
Ultimate Limit
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Control and Series Limit Switches
Most electric power hoists have the limit switches connected in the control circuit in a parallel
arrangement
This arrangement means that when one switch is ‘open’ then the other switch is ‘closed’ and
motion is still possible in this direction when the push button is depressed. In practice, only one
switch can be open at any time
Some electric hoists have a second limit switch called the ultimate limit switch
This operates when the control limit switch fails. It disconnects the supply to the contactors and
should only be reset when the faulty shunt limit has been adjusted or replaced
Series Type
The limit has either two or three contacts and is wired directly in the main supply cables to the motor. It
must be noted that on older cranes, this is the only type of limit switch fitted.
126
Both types when used as ultimate limits are usually only re-settable manually by maintenance staff who
must investigate the reason why the normal limit switch has failed.
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Notes:
A range of devices are used to avoid circuit overloading, i.e. the circuit being subjected to too great a
current, and Mechanical Overloading, e.g. an attempt to raise too great a load, which can result from a
fault or from incorrect use.
If an attempt is made to use a hoist to raise too great a load the motor will demand an increased current.
This raises the motor temperature, leading to insulation burning, shorting and cause the motor to burn out,
in addition to the obvious dangers of load bearing components failing.
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Protective devices are used in various ways to limit or prevent such occurrences and each type has its own
intended function.
A fuse or circuit breaker, if properly designed, will prevent circuit overload by isolating the circuit
from the power supply before any damage is done
o Once they operate, everything on the working side of them is isolated and is inoperative
until they have been repaired, replaced or re-set, they are ultimate protection devices
Other devices are incorporated into equipment to protect certain parts from damage, e.g. a hoist
limit switch, these may then operate to isolate a single component or function but permit other
functions to operate. When a hoist limit operates it prevents the block from operating in the hoist
mode but still allows the load to be lowered, they are intermediate protection devices
Notes:
128
Bi-Metallic Strips
When the load supply exceeds a predetermined value its heating effect causes the deflection of the bi‑
metal strip to open the micro switch and disconnects the supply.
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Thermal Devices
Thermistors
Negative Temperature Coefficient
o With NTC, resistance decreases with temperature to
protect against inrush overcurrent conditions. Installed series in a circuit
Positive Temperature Coefficient
o With PTC, resistance increases with temperature to protect against overvoltage conditions.
Installed parallel in a circuit
Some hoist motors have thermistors embedded into their stator windings during manufacture.
The thermistors are connected via a terminal strip to a relay wired in the control circuit of the contactors.
In the event that the temperature of the motor rises to an unacceptable level, the thermistors will trip the
relay and render the motor inoperative until it has cooled sufficiently.
When the hoist motor has been de‑energised by either an electro magnetic or a thermal device it cannot
be restarted until the relay has been reset, normally by a push button.
Fuses
The fuse breaks the circuit if a fault in an appliance causes too much current flow
This protects the wiring and the appliance if something goes wrong
The fuse contains a piece of wire that melts easily. If the current going through the fuse is too great,
the wire heats up until it melts and breaks the circuit
Rated in accordance with their current carrying ability, e.g. 13-amp fuse
o The rating is the maximum current, which the fuse can carry continuously without
deterioration
Fuses used with electric hoists should be of the high rupture capacity type (HRC)
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They have good non‑ageing characteristics and they have a high breaking capacity (i.e. will clear
short circuits before the equipment is damaged)
If equipment is ‘earthed’ to prevent the machine frame becoming live and causing possible
electrocution, it is necessary that a fault current 3 times that of the fuse rating can occur in order
to blow the fuse quickly. This requires that the earth path resistance must be very low
When the live wire carries the usual operating current, the
electromagnet is not strong enough to separate the contacts
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Notes:
131
ELCB Operation
Normal Condition
As shown in the circuit below, the line input and output are equal therefore the search coil shows no
imbalance.
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Earth Fault
Due to earth leakage, the line voltage output current will less than that of the input. The search coil
registers an imbalance and generates a current activating the trip coil and opening the circuit.
Important Reminder
The failure of ultimate devices, such as fuses, call for a thorough investigation by a suitably qualified
person before any attempt is made to repair or replace them.
It should also be realised that in the case of a serious fault more than one of the protective devices may 132
have operated.
Notes:
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Slipping Clutch
Slipping clutches, also known as Friction Torque Limiters, are sometimes used in power operated chain
hoists and may occasionally be found on overhead travelling cranes.
These devices are set to slip when the load increases beyond a predetermined amount, e.g. working load
limit plus an allowance which takes into account the effects of dynamic loading.
Slipping clutches are ‘direct acting’ rated capacity limiters and act directly in the chain of the drive elements
of the hoist.
Slipping clutches are also used in some designs of lifting appliances as the upper (hoisting) limit, thereby
serving a dual purpose.
Slipping Clutch
133
Load Pin Transducer Limit Switch (WLL)
Used as an additional form of overload protection on certain wire rope or chain electric hoists
The device protects both the hoist and the supporting structure from physical overload
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Lever Operated, Electro-Mechanical Load Limiter
The load limiter is set to 110% of WLL to account for dynamic overloading.
This device is fitted to one fall of the load rope and the rope is deflected at a
shallow angle between the jaw of the strain gauge and the positioning wheels
When the rope is under load condition, it tries to pull itself straight. As it does,
it pulls the strain gauge anchor with it which is attached to a shaft. Once the
shaft reaches a certain pre-set limit, it will open a micro-switch that opens the
control power supply to the hoist motor.
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14. Braking Systems
Hoist Brakes
BS EN 14492-2 states the requirements for brakes that are used for hoisting and lowering movements.
Hoists shall be designed in such a way that movements can be decelerated, the load can be held, and that
unintended movements are avoided. In addition the rotating masses, the triggering limit of the rated
capacity limiter and the maximum speed, e.g. in the event of a phase failure, shall be taken into account.
In addition, in the case of 3 phase motors, brakes must engage when two phases of the power supply to
the drive (motor) are interrupted.
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When one phase of a three-phase system is lost, a phase loss occurs. This is also called 'single phasing'.
Typically, a phase loss is caused by a blown fuse, thermal overload, broken wire, worn contact or
mechanical failure. A phase loss that goes undetected can rapidly result in unsafe conditions, equipment
failures, and costly downtime.
Phase loss protection devices are relatively inexpensive and simple to install. They provide protection by
disconnecting the equipment from the circuit when phase loss is detected. Phase or voltage monitors are
the most common solution.
Notes:
When power is applied to the motor windings the magnetic field is angular to the centre line of the rotor
shaft, operating in effect, two components of force at right angles to each other.
The radial component rotates the rotor whilst the horizontal component, pulls the rotor into the windings.
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Notes:
137
Adjustment
When the brake lining wears the air gap between the rotor and stator
increases and, if not adjusted, will produce erratic motor operation
because the magnetic forces will not be powerful enough to move the
rotor forward and so will not release the brake.
To check if brake adjustment is necessary the rotor should be moved forward manually either by pushing
directly onto the shaft or by way of a lever between the brake end cap and the brake wheel.
When the rotor is forward as far as it will go, measure the distance between the end of the rotor shaft and
the front of the brake end cap. Release the rotor and take a further measurement.
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The difference between the two measurements is the air gap (stroke length) and is usually be between 0.5
and 1.5mm and must never be allowed to exceed 3mm, however LEEA recommends that the appropriate
manufacturer's instructions are always followed.
If brake adjustment is required, remove the four screws that secure the brake
end cap.
The brake end cap (which is threaded) can now be turned, and each 90° turn
will reduce the air gap (stroke length) by approximately 0.5mm.
The securing screws should now be replaced and the air gap checked once more
to ensure correct setting.
During the first week of operation or after changing the brake lining, the brake
should be checked daily, since the lining may wear unequally until bedded in.
Ideally it could be argued that the hoist brake should be positioned as near to
the hoist drum as possible. For reasons of design accessibility, cooling etc., it is
usually on the end of the rotor shaft.
The examiner should take the utmost care to satisfy himself that all components
are in good working order. Should for example a key shear or the coupling fail,
then the load would fall.
This drawing shows a cross section of a conical hoist brake. Adjustment is made by
removing shims (3) as the lining wears. As shims are removed, the brake end cap 138
and brake lining (1 – shown in red) moves further toward the brake rotor at the
end of the rotor shaft and closes the gap.
As the brake linings wear down, the path of the rotor displacement increases to
a maximum of 3.5mm, after which the braking would become ineffective. It is
essential that the movement of the rotor is regularly checked and maintained
within the manufacturers limits (approximately 1-1.5mm).
Notes:
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Parallel Rotor Principle
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The hoist brake is a single disc brake, electro‑magnetic spring applied, DC coil release
The coil configuration is of the stator rotor type, direct current is energised to ensure positive
action
The brake is directly fixed to the main gear case or motor frame and operates on the primary drive
shaft
Torque is pre-set on factory assembly and should not require further adjustment during its working
life
The brake is readily accessible for periodic safety checks
For additional safety, it is switched independently of the motor supply
The fail-safe operation maintains the load in the event of an interruption to the power supply
A hand release mechanism is fitted to enable the load to be lowered in the event of power failure
The hand release operating handle is detachable and is stored in the brake cover
140
Notes:
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Example of Manufacturer’s Air Gap Settings
141
Travel Brakes
Travel brakes may be either the disc or the drum type but in both cases their characteristics need to be a
lot different to a hoist brake
Braking characteristics have to be finely tuned in order to avoid excessive braking under no load conditions
and providing reasonable braking when travelling with a maximum load
The brake has been greatly reduced on disc and the equivalent of a
flywheel has been fitted to the motor shaft
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Notes:
Thrustor Brake
Base/Arms
Rigid wielded construction.
Shoes
Self-aligning, easily removable high grade cast iron filled with best quality linings fitted with stops.
Rods/Grid Rods
The tie rod transmits the spring force on shoes by simple lever system.
Springs
Compression springs are vertically mounted through the grid rods and are held securely between guide
plates. One or more springs are used depending on the brake size and thrustor capacity so as to obtain the
required braking torque.
Operation
The braking pressure to the shoes is transmitted from the springs and means of extremely rigid and simple
lever/tie rod mechanism. Braking is smooth and positive. Release of the brake shoes is by introduction of
a 3 phase mains voltage supply to the thrustor which overcomes the spring force and the shoes are moved
clear of the drum by the lever/arm linkage system.
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Checking the Thrustor
Correct operating limits and settings must be gained from the manufacturers data sheets or the crane
maintenance manuals.
Notes:
143
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15. Electric Motors and VFDs
Electric Motors
Electric motors are the most common motive source used with lifting equipment. They therefore form an
important part of the study of power operated lifting equipment. Not only are they used to provide the
motive force to raise and lower loads, as in hoists and winches, but also to move them, as in travelling
hoists and cranes.
These different duties call for the motors used for the various functions to have differing characteristics.
AC Motors
Enclosure (frame)
Stator 144
Rotor
Electric Motors
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AC Motors
Electric Motors
When current flows through a conductor, it produces a magnetic field around the conductor. The strength
of the magnetic field is proportional to the amount of current.
145
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Notes:
In squirrel cage motors only the stator has copper coils. The rotor package is a short-circuited aluminium
or copper cage that is filled with some conductive material, usually cast aluminium. The rotor bars are
slightly angled to increase the efficiency.
Cylindrical rotor squirrel cage motors require an auxiliary brake. The brake is mounted on the free end of
the motor on the motor shaft.
AC Motors
In industrial applications most AC motors are three-phase although lighter capacity single phase hoists are 146
available. A three-phase AC electric motor can be wired as shown below.
The three poles are arranged at 120 and connected as shown Each pole becomes fully energised at a
different time in relation to the others.
Each leg of the 3 phases going to a motor are 120 degrees out of phase with each other, so what happens
is the supply, due to the changing of polarity of the supply creates a rotating magnetic field inside the rotor.
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Remember that when we put current into a wire the wire creates a magnetic field around the wire, if you
constantly change the polarity of the current being applied to the wire (AC current) and then you have three
phases which are 120 degrees out of phase with each other, you get a rotating magnetic field inside the
stator, which is what we call the flux.
Motor Insulation
The stator core and windings are insulated. The type of insulator depends on the operating temperature
of the motor.
Most motors have type E or F insulation. Class E insulation allows a temperature rise of 70°C whilst Class F
permits a rise of 95°C above ambient temperature for totally enclosed motors.
A motor burns out when the insulation material around the stator coils heat up too much and melts
A burnt motor is either changed or the stator is rewound. The rotor may also be destroyed from
overheating
o Too many starts (inching) – operator activates high speed first before starting in slow speed
o Lifting beyond ED% rating of motor (heavy loads plus lifting time)
o Environmental temperature
Cooked!
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Notes:
148
Requirements of BS EN 60204
Protection of motors against overheating shall be provided for each motor rated at more than 2kW
Automatic restarting of any motor after the operation of protection against overheating is to be prevented
if it can cause a hazardous situation or damage to the machine or work in progress.
We will look at hoist overload protection and safety devices later in this course.
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Motor Ingress Protection (IP) Rating
IP ratings are used to define levels of sealing
effectiveness of electrical enclosures against
intrusion from foreign bodies (tools, dirt etc.)
and moisture.
ED Rating
Electrical motors are not only rated according to the power they can generate, but also according to their
heat resistance. This is called Efficient Duty.
149
Every motor that is running gets hot due to electrical resistance in the motor
The temperature of the motor must not increase above specified values
Hoist duty classification specifies the duty factor (ED % = Efficient Duty in percent) and starting frequency
(maximum starts per hour) of hoisting motors according to the table below:
More starts per hour increases the ED% as well as how much lifting the hoist will do in its work cycles.
The ED% is calculated from how much the hoist will lift per each lift and how long each lift will take
The ED% is based on a 10-minute period of time
An ED rating of 40% means the motor can be operated for an average of 4 minutes in any 10 minute
period whilst resting 6 minutes of that period
Be aware that after 4 minutes of lifting the motor requires a 6 minute cooling down period
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Another general way of explaining ED% is the maximum number of continuous minutes a motor can be
used to lift nominal load in a 10 minute period without overheating the motor.
The example hoist data plate below shows that when this particular motor is suppled with a 400v 3 phase
50 hertz supply, the ED rating will be 50%. (Able to run continuously for 5 minutes in every 10).
Duty Classification
Safe and effective operation of the hoist is dependent on correct classification of the hoist's operating
group.
Hoists shall be classified in groups of mechanism in accordance with ISO 4301-1 according to the
operational requirements and conditions of application.
Hoists shall be designed in accordance with FEM 1.001, booklets 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8 and 9 and FEM 9.901.
We will consider duty classification in the specific hoist modules during this course.
150
Notes:
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Requirements of BS EN 14492 Parts 1 & 2
BS EN 14492 is the current harmonised standard for Cranes – Power driven winches and hoists:
Part 1 – Winches
Part 2 – Hoists
The standard applies to the design, information and use, maintenance and testing of power driven hoists
with or without travelling trolleys for which the prime mover is either an electric, hydraulic or pneumatic
motor.
Annex J of the standard details the requirements for selection of motors in 3 ways:
1. General criteria for the selection of motors and dimensioning of motors according to thermal
aspects, usually applying on all sorts of drives in intermittent service
2. Special criteria to dimension motors according to the maximum torque required for lifting motions
and according to data on stress occurring during the use of these drives
3. As 2. but details requirements for horizontal drive motors (e.g. travel and traverse motions)
As we have already studied, the speed of a 3 phase squirrel cage motor can be changed by either changing
the number of pairs of poles, or by altering the supply frequency.
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VFD inverters have become very commonplace in the control of overhead travelling crane and other
machinery AC squirrel cage motors.
Inverter drives can also reduce operating costs while improving productivity. Reduced costs can be realised
from:
Inverters can therefore not only provide precise speed control, but also reduce overall operating costs.
A VFD (Variable Frequency Drive) inverter operation is sometimes referred to as PWM (Pulse Width
Modulation).
The inverter changes the 3-phase alternating current (AC) into pulses of positive and negative direct current,
(DC). The pulses are combined to simulate the rising and failing sine wave required by the AC motor.
152
PWM is the process of pulsing the DC on and off by quickly switching a number of switches on and off (this
can be thousands of times per second), and when this is fed to the motor it has an effect on the current
flow.
The current actually resembles AC current and so fools the motor into running with an AC power supply,
when it is in fact DC.
The inverter’s control board signals the power device's control circuits to turn "on" the waveform positive
half or negative half of the power device. This alternating of positive and negative switches recreates the 3
phase output.
The less time the power device is on, the lower the output voltage and the longer the power device is off,
the lower the output frequency.
We simply adjust the pulses of DC to the motor in order to adjust its torque and speed.
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Mechanical Brake Control
An inverter decelerates a motor to a stop (dynamic braking). The slow down rate is dependent on the set
deceleration time when the run command is switched off.
The brake simply becomes a ‘parking’ brake as it does not engage until the motor has completely stopped
and the inverter switches off the drive command to the motor.
This way brake wear is minimized. Only if a failure occurs or the emergency stop button is pushed, the
brake closes immediately stopping the motor.
It is critically important that the untrained, or inexperienced inspector/examiner does not tamper or
interfere with a VFD inverter as this could cause serious health and safety risks and/or physical damage
to the crane. Covers should remain intact and safety notices should be strictly adhered to at all times. If
in doubt, refer to a Competent Person for advice.
Important Reminder
It should also be noted that the initial section of the unit is written in a simplistic form that is intended to
establish only some basic principles. The aim is to give those with little or no knowledge of the subject a
basic understanding and to provide the basis for further study.
This module will help examiners/inspectors whom have dealings with electrically powered lifting equipment
to understand the principles, recognise the layout and individual items, and be aware of associated dangers.
It is in no way intended to provide competence to deal with electrical matters, which must always be 153
dealt with by a suitably qualified person.
Under no circumstances should inspectors/examiners whom are not suitably and sufficiently qualified (as
required by local legislation) attempt to work on live electrical equipment; this should not be required as
part of a thorough examination as the equipment should be isolated following the initial
operational/functional checks.
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Notes:
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16. Duty Classification
Introduction
During module 2 of this course, we looked at the various standards that are applicable to overhead
travelling cranes, whether they may be for design, gantries, thorough examination, or indeed
‘classification’.
1. BS ISO 12482: Cranes – Monitoring for Crane Design Working Period (Duty Holder/Owner)
Principally for the use of the crane owner/duty holder to monitor crane ‘design working period’. The
standard specifies a method for monitoring, during long-term operation, the actual duty of the crane, and
a means of comparing this to the original design duty which was specified through classification.
This standard establishes a general classification of cranes based on the number of operating cycles to be
carried out during the expected life of the crane and a load spectrum factor which represents a nominal
state of loading.
Duty Classification
Cranes are designed for a finite lifetime duty and this is not principally related to calendar working time.
Typical operational periods are between 10 and 20 years but specific crane classification can be relative to
a particular use, e.g. 5 to 10 years special use or 30+ years for a long term investment.
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There are essentially two types (or uses) of classification:
Classification agreed between the purchaser and the manufacturer is only provided for the overall
classification of the crane as a whole and is intended for contractual and technical reference purposes, not
design purposes.
Allows a designer to analyse the design and verify it is capable of achieving the desired life under the
expected conditions of service.
Notes:
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Group Classification of the ‘whole crane’
Two factors are used to decide which group a crane belongs to:
1. Class of utilisation
2. State of loading
Class of Utilisation
Based on the users expected number of ‘operating cycles’ over the duration of the crane life.
1 x operating cycle commences when a load is ready for hoisting and ends at the moment when it
is ready to hoist the next load
Total operating cycles in the life of the crane is usually determined from:
o Total operating hours per day
And
o Number of cycles per hour
The overall number of operating cycles is the total of all operating cycles during the specified life
of the crane
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We can clearly see from the previous ‘Class of Utilisation’ table from ISO 4301-1 that a class U4 crane would
be undertake a maximum of 2.5 x 10⁵ operating cycles in it’s expected lifetime.
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Notes:
This element of crane classification looks at how many times a load of a particular weight is lifted, relative
to the rated capacity of the crane.
E.g.
1. A 10t WLL overhead crane may lift 2.5t for 80% of its total number of operating cycles per day, and
10t for the remaining 20%
2. A 5t WLL crane may lift near to full load for 70% of its daily operating cycles and less than 1t for the 157
remaining 30%
The following table provides a general view of how the state of loading (load spectrum) of a crane is
established, based upon the magnitude of loads and the number of times these will be lifted over the crane’s
design life:
Once the class of utilisation and the state of loading have been established, the overall classification of the
crane as a whole can be determined by using the following table:
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Notes:
We will now look at the class of utilization of a mechanism. This is characterized by the assumed total
duration of use in hours. This is usually obtained from the assumed average daily utilization time in hours, 158
the number of working days per year, and the number of years of expected service:
The total duration of use (hours) are theoretical values only, which only provide a basis for the design of
parts of mechanisms for which the utilization time is a criteria for the choice of the part (e.g. bearings, gears
and shafts).
The hours stated are not considered as any guarantee of service life for a mechanism.
When we now consider the state of loading for the mechanism, we are considering the extent of loading,
whether that be maximum loadings or reduced loadings:
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Once the class of utilisation and the state of loading have been established, the group classification to the
design of specific mechanisms can be determined by using the following table:
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Important Reminder
It should also be noted that the initial section of the unit is written in a simplistic form that is intended to
establish only some basic principles. The aim is to give those with little or no knowledge of the subject a
basic understanding and to provide the basis for further study.
This module will help examiners/inspectors whom have dealings with electrically powered lifting
equipment to know the basic principles relating to duty classification and how this effects the overhead
travelling crane during its service life.
Notes:
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17. Safety Essentials – Working on OTCs
Safety Essentials: Working on Overhead Travelling Cranes
Do not take shortcuts in the planning of safety for the work to be done
The basic rules are that there should be isolation from the power source (usually, but not
exclusively, electrical energy)
The isolator should be locked in position (for example by a padlock), and a sign should be used to
indicate that inspection work is in progress
Isolation requires use of devices that are specifically designed for this purpose; not devices such as
key-lockable emergency stops or other types of switches that may be fitted to the machine
Any stored energy (hydraulic or pneumatic power, for instance) should also be dissipated before
the work starts
If more than one examiner is involved in the work, each of them should lock off the power with
their own padlock. Multi-padlock hasps can be used in such circumstances. Such isolation
procedures can also be applied to locking off valves for services (such as steam) and material
supplies
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Before entering or working on the equipment, it is essential that the effectiveness of the isolation
is verified by a suitably Competent Person
Electrical Isolation
Unqualified personnel should not perform any electrical examinations or testing of any kind on any electrical
equipment associated with overhead travelling cranes unless they can demonstrate competency in
electrical service and hazardous energy isolation, have been suitably and sufficiently trained in electrical
safety, and authorised by their company management to perform such tasks.
Unqualified personnel should not be allowed to perform any work on or near energised electrical
equipment.
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Accident Report
“Two dock workers suffered injuries in a high voltage electric shock when they were trying to fix a crane.
The maintenance worker was temporarily blinded – and is now scarred permanently - and both he and an
electrician were burned. Two other men working on the job could also have suffered burns as a result and
all four could easily have been killed. None of the men had received adequate training or been given
sufficient information about the electricity supplies to the dockside cranes. All four workers were put at
risk because their employer did not have procedures in place to ensure electrical work was carried out
safely”.
Source: http://www.hse.gov.uk/safemaintenance/experience.htm
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Personnel Carrying Out Thorough Examinations
“It is essential that the in-service inspection and maintenance of cranes is always carried out by personnel
who have been assessed by their employer as competent and have adequate training and information to
carry out the work required.”
LOLER also requires that thorough examinations are carried out by Competent Persons.
“Competent Persons should have the necessary attributes, competencies, knowledge and experience to
enable them to carry out effective thorough examinations of cranes. The nature and extent of these will
depend on the purpose of the examination to be undertaken, the complexity of the cranes to be
examined and the consequences of failure of those cranes. It is essential that such persons have
adequate training, information and independence to carry out the work required”
Note: Module 1 of this OTC Advanced Programme provides the definition of a Competent Person.
Fully conversant with the machinery they are required to examine and its hazards, including
operation necessary for thorough examination activities
Properly instructed and trained
Familiar with the procedures and precautions required for safe work at height, over water or in a
confined space (where required)
Have a responsible attitude
Fully conversant with the appropriate sections of the manufacturer’s instruction manual
Familiar with the use of permit to work systems where they are required by the safe system of
work, and able to operate them correctly
Familiar with site specific safety requirements (e.g. manufacturing, construction, process plant,
nuclear, docks, airports, railways)
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Trained and competent in the selection, pre-use inspection and correct use of their personal
protective equipment
An understanding of the applicable crane design standards and codes of practice for the selection
and use of the relevant cranes, together with the applicable examination criteria
An understanding of the safety rules and associated codes of practice that are applicable to the
relevant cranes
An understanding of the inspection and maintenance requirements of cranes
Knowledge of appropriate test procedures which may be employed and the interpretation and
limitations of those techniques
An understanding of drawings and manufacturing literature relevant to the cranes to be examined
Knowledge of the materials and techniques used in the manufacture and assembly of the type of
cranes to be examined
Be capable of detecting defects or weaknesses in cranes which could compromise the safety of the
crane
Have sufficient knowledge and experience to assess the importance of defects or weaknesses in
the crane and identify what actions need to be taken in order to rectify them. In particular they
should be able to:
o Determine whether the crane is operating as intended
o Specify the appropriate time-scales within which identified defects or weaknesses need to
be rectified
o Determine whether defects identified in the previous report of thorough examination have
received attention
o Determine whether all safety devices are functioning correctly
o Check whether warning notices are correctly fixed and legible, and where necessary specify
any limitations on the use of the crane
o Witness any testing required as part of the thorough examination and evaluate the results
o Report on the findings of the thorough examination
Assessment of Competence
Employers should determine through a formally documented assessment process the competence of each
individual person, both existing employees and new entrants, based on the attributes, competencies,
knowledge and skills listed in 5.3.2 to 5.3.5. A shortfall in attainment level does not necessarily preclude
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employment in this role but it is essential that such shortfalls are addressed before the person is allowed
to carry out unsupervised thorough examinations of cranes.
All Competent Persons should be assessed on appointment, again within their first 12 months, and at
regular intervals (not exceeding 4 years) thereafter. Assessment should form part of any training.
Training Records
A comprehensive individual training record should be established for all personnel carrying out thorough
examinations. This should be updated as training is undertaken and as a minimum should include:
Continuing professional development is a joint responsibility between the Competent Person and their 164
employer.
The employer should maintain a CPD record for each Competent Person. The record should include details
of how CPD is being achieved and should include for example:
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Preparation for the Thorough Examination
The crane should be positioned in a suitable area to enable the thorough examination to be
undertaken safely
Additional means of safe access should also be provided as required by the Competent Person, e.g.
scaffolding, working platforms or mobile elevating work platforms
These recommendations also apply to an inspection made under MCA LOLER 2006:6 Regulation 12(1).
Note: Attention is drawn to the Work at Height Regulations 2005 (as amended) [15].
Access
Employers and Competent Persons should ensure that procedures are in place to enable the
Competent Person to access all relevant parts as and when required
Some parts might be accessible by using permanent facilities such as access ladders to the gantry
combined with gantry and cross-bridge walkways
Such facilities do not always provide access to all parts, and the Competent Person might need to
use personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect against the risk of a fall 165
Use of PPE requires suitable anchor points and a recovery plan in the event that a fall occurs
Temporary access facilities, such as a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) or scaffolding, might
be required to reach some parts
Such temporary facilities usually stand on the ground or floor of a building and require a suitable
surface, space for access, space to operate in and time to deploy
The Competent Persons who deploy and use such facilities should be trained for the purpose, and
the equipment used should be in a serviceable condition
If the local lighting is not adequate for examination purposes it should be supplemented by
portable lighting
The identification and rated capacity marked on the crane should be checked against the records,
for example the test certificate, declaration of conformity, the manufacturer’s instructions for use
and the report of the last thorough examination
The crane should be made safe by isolating and locking-off the power supply when necessary and
reinstating it as appropriate
The Competent Person carrying out the thorough examination should determine if there is any
history of defects or malfunctions, and whether any repairs, alterations or additions have been
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made. The last report of thorough examination and in-service inspection reports should be
consulted
Where it is not possible to ascertain the condition of hidden mechanism parts, for example ropes,
chains, sheaves or terminations, dismantling prior to thorough examination should carried out as
required by the Competent Person
Notes:
Notes:
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Working Above Ground Level
2. Scaffolding
3. MEWPs
4. Controlled Zones
6. Work Positioning
Rescue Plan
A Rescue Plan must be developed whenever fall-arrest systems are in use and when personnel may not be
able to perform a self-rescue should a fall occur.
Before requesting a Rescue Kit (which is the last resort) you must first consider whether ladders,
stepladders, MEWPs, controlled decent devices or other equipment can be used to perform a rescue. 167
How will the rescue be assured within 10 minutes of the fall to minimise the risk of further injury
or suspension trauma?
How will the safety of the rescuers be assured as well as the suspended worker?
What communications will be used between the suspended worker and the rescue team?
Notes:
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Monitor and Review
Continuously monitor activities in all three dimensions of your surroundings!
Record your findings and change the risk assessment as necessary This may result in the
requirement for additional control measures
Where Applicable:
Special attention and planning are required for inspecting cranes in hot areas. Due to the adverse
environment, these cranes may not receive the inspection time they deserve.
The temperature in certain applications/environments (coupled with seasonal high temperatures) may
mean that on occasion, the crane structure may be hot, and gloves are recommended for manoeuvring on
the structure during an inspection.
Your risk assessment may identify reduced exposure time for the personnel working on the crane(s).
Summary 168
In this module, we have looked at the various safety considerations that are to be incorporated into our
risk assessments, method statements and review procedures to ensure that all examiners involved in work
on overhead travelling cranes are afforded the highest level of protection from injury or fatality.
Examiners of overhead travelling cranes should always make themselves familiar with any national
regulations of the country in which they are operating.
Notes:
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18. Testing as Part of the Thorough Examination
General
All cranes and supporting structures should be overload tested before first use
o In some circumstances, it might be necessary to treat them as separate entities, for example
where a structure supports more than one crane
The extent and magnitude of the testing should be clearly stated in the thorough examination
report/test report
Cranes and supporting structures should be overload tested after major repairs or modifications
The crane should be functionally tested without a load applied to determine whether the controls,
switches, contactors, relays and other devices operate correctly
The operation and correct adjustment of the brakes and limit switches should be checked and tests
carried out to determine whether primary safety and emergency systems are operating correctly
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Tested at Rated Capacity
After the functional tests, the crane should be tested with a load equivalent to the rated capacity
At the start of the test, the crane should be positioned over a supporting stanchion or column of
the gantry or beneath the connection point of a suspended track, as appropriate, with the crab or
hoist positioned adjacent to the end carriage
With the crane in this position, provision should be made for measuring the deflection of the crane
main girders at the centre span
The load should then be raised until each tooth on the gearbox system has been subjected to the
load
o Lower the load to approximately 100/200mm from the floor
o Leave the load in this position for 10 minutes
o Check that the brake is holding
Lift the load again from the suspended position by a further 200 mm to check the hoists ability to
re-hoist
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o Lower the load again to 100/200mm above the ground
The maximum deflection of the main bridge with the crab and load at the centre of the bridge
should not exceed 1/750 of the span
Deflection
Note:
Cranes manufactured to BS 466:1984 have a maximum permissible deflection of 1/750 of the span
Cranes manufactured to BS 466:1960 have a maximum permissible deflection of 1/900 of the span
For cranes manufactured to BS EN 15011:2011, sub clause 5.2.2.5 of that standard specifies, ‘the elastic
deformations of the crane structure shall not have a detrimental influence on the function of the crane.’
170
Testing as Part of the Thorough Examination
Overload Test
The load should then be increased by 25% to form an overload test load and the overload test load
should be hoisted until each tooth of the train of gears has been subjected to the overload
o Lower the load to 100/200 mm above the ground
o Leave the load in this position for 10 minutes
o Check that the brake is holding
Lift the load again from the suspended position by a further 200 mm to check the hoists ability to
re-hoist
o Lower the load again to 100/200mm above the ground
During the overload test the crane should remain stable and structurally sound and the brakes on
each motion should function effectively. The traverse and travel braking systems should also
function effectively with the overload applied
During the overload test the crane should be operated at speeds appropriate to the safe control of
the load, for example the lowest speed possible for the crane
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Testing of Cranes with 2 or more Hoists
For cranes with two or more hoists, separate tests in accordance with ‘rated capacity’ and ‘overload
test’ should be carried out for each hoist
Where the use of more than one hoist at a time is permitted, all tests including the measurement
of deflection should be carried out with all these hoists loaded simultaneously
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Collateral Damage
What damage may have been caused?
Structural Problems
172
Prior to the application of the test loads, the Competent Person should carry out a thorough examination
of the structure to determine whether it is in a safe condition to be load tested.
An unloaded crane should then be travelled the full length of the supporting structure to check the
alignment.
Note: BS ISO 12488-1 contains detailed information about the alignment of crane supporting structures.
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General
Testing should be carried out using the combination of loadings, cranes and crane positions that imposes
the maximum loadings on the structure under test. This includes cranes in an adjacent bay.
BUT: Where do we place the crane on the gantry to measure deflection effectively?
173
If the end carriage centres are less than half of the gantry girder span (L/2), then the maximum stress will
occur when the end carriage centreline is offset from the girder centre line by measurement C/4:
Maximum stress will occur at X and maximum deflection in the girder will occur at girder centreline L/2
Notes:
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Testing
Overload Test
The overload test load on each crane should be that determined previously in this unit.
Each crane involved should then lift the overload test load 100 mm to 200 mm above the ground. The load
lifted by each crane should be traversed to the end of the crane bridge nearest the side of the structure
being tested. The cranes should be travelled the full length of the structure in such relative positions as to
impose the maximum combined loading. The procedure should be repeated for the other side of the
structure.
Notes:
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19. The Thorough Examination
Thorough Examination of Overhead Travelling Cranes and Supporting Structures
LOLER 1998 [2] Regulation 9 requires cranes and supporting structures to be thoroughly examined in the
following circumstances:
1. Before being put into use for the first time, unless the crane is new and the owner has an EC
Declaration of Conformity dated not more than 12 months prior to the crane being used for the
first time
3. Periodically whilst in service, at maximum intervals of 6 months for cranes that lift people and 12
months for cranes that lift goods only (see note 2)
Note 1: Thorough examination does not apply to a portable gantry crane which is moved from one location
to another to perform a lifting operation, is not fixed in position, and is operating within the scope of the
current report of thorough examination.
Note 2: These maximum intervals may be reduced to take into account environmental factors or the
175
general age and condition of the crane etc.
The Competent Person carrying out the thorough examination must not have had any involvement with
the maintenance of the crane. (BS7121:2-7 2012)
Notes:
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Scope of Thorough Examination Before Putting an OTC into use for the First Time
The scope of the thorough examination should be put together by the Competent Person. During
this process, the Competent Person should give due consideration to the likelihood of anything
failing and the associated risks involved from such a failure
The Competent Person should consider the age of the crane and any deterioration that may have
taken place since it was manufactured. This could lead to increased risk in operation
The scope of the thorough examination should be put together by the Competent Person. LOLER 176
requires that this scope ensures that the crane has been installed correctly and is safe to use
The crane manufacturer’s instructions should have been followed during the installation
o The crane should be checked and tested in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions
The Competent Person should ensure that the scope of the thorough examination is in proportion
to the complexity of the crane and its installation
o Previous thorough examination reports should be consulted and taken into consideration
where applicable
The Competent Person carrying out a periodic thorough examination should work to a defined
scope of thorough examination that has been drawn up specifically for the crane they are required
to examine
The scope should be made in advance of the examination
o All parts should be identified and listed
o Any required supplementary tests and reports should be detailed
I. Requirements for witnessing of tests should be detailed
o Details of NDT tests should be provided
Note: The Competent Person carrying out the thorough examination may add to the defined scope but
is not permitted to reduce it!
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It is essential that the defined scope of thorough examination includes any dedicated ancillary
equipment. Particular attention should be paid to wire ropes!
The defined scope of thorough examination should, as a minimum, include operation of the crane through
all the motions:
Listen for any sounds that might indicate defects and observing any other malfunctions
All components should be assessed against relevant criteria (original manufacturer’s instructions
and guidelines and standards offer guidance here), taking into account the path of the load through
the crane’s structure and mechanisms
It is essential that the scope is risk based and takes into account the consequences of failure of the 177
crane
o The examination should be undertaken in a systematic manner to ensure that all
components and structures, including the supporting structures, are examined
Note: Parts of the supporting structure which are solely for the support of the crane should be included in
the scope of thorough examination.
Parts of the supporting structure which are not solely for the support of the crane gantry or track are not
included in the scope of thorough examination.
Note: The following list of components is not exhaustive. The scope of the thorough examination should
identify all components on any specific crane.
Note: The following list of components is not exhaustive. The scope of the thorough
examination should identify all components on any specific crane.
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Bridge girders
Crab structure
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• Electrical control panel and wiring
Limit switches
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Supporting structures
Notes:
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Gantry beams, rails and fixings
Assessment Criteria
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Distortion – affecting strength or functionality
Lubrication – adequacy
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Rope specification – as specified by manufacturer
Rope condition
Obstructions
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Periodic Thorough Examination Interval
Reasons for reduction of the interval between thorough examinations include the following:
o If the crane might be used for lifting of persons in exceptional circumstances, including
rescue, even if it is not initially planned
o To take into account the intensity of use of the crane and the environment in which it is
used
o Following a review by the Competent Person of the in-service lift plan (risk assessment,
method statement and schedule of lifts) to ascertain the likely load spectrum and
frequency of use of the crane
The scope of the thorough examination should be proportional to the nature of the exceptional
circumstances and the extent of any repairs, and should take into account the reports of previous thorough
examinations, where applicable.
Notes:
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Scope of Periodic Thorough Examination
The Competent Person who prepared the scope of thorough examination should
review it periodically
Consider any changes of use – increased productivity, heavier loading state,
etc.
Particulars from previous thorough examination reports may indicate
particular areas for closer inspection
Results of supplementary testing, maintenance and NDT activity
A copy of the thorough examination scope should be available in the crane maintenance/history file
Notes:
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20. Gantry Alignment
Crane gantries will generally be constructed as ‘top running’ or ‘under-slung’. Top running gantries are
supported in various ways.
The latticed stanchion shown below tends to provide a lighter and more rigid structure since the transverse
loading at the track level are all virtually transmitted through a very stiff column to the foundations.
The method of gantry support shown below, although cheaper to produce, could have problems of fatigue
with the cantilever brackets if the crane is in constant use.
185
The support steelwork shown in the illustration below provides direct support for gantry girders, additional
stiffness and no tie bars are required.
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After a number of years, gantry installations can suffer from what is known as ‘settlement’ which can affect
the track levels and span. This is caused by the settling of the building foundations.
Serious misalignment of a crane track will cause the crane to bind and bias to one side of the track rather
than float.
The immediate effect is to cause rapid wear on the crane runner flanges reducing their working life, often
from years to months.
Misalignment will often be found to occur only in certain areas when the crane lifts continually heavy loads,
for example, a loading bay when the loads are all concentrated before they are dispersed to various parts
of the building.
If a building has not been designed to support a crane gantry then the gantry and stanchion may be totally
free standing so that no load is transmitted to the building structure, (See Fig. 4 below).
The illustration below shows three methods of making gantry columns. Types A and B are braced and
therefore are very stiff. Type C, which is usually an edge on universal beam or column, are normally for
lightly loaded light duty cranes. The Tester and Examiner will find that with rapid reversals of the crab unit
type C will tend to resonate. With type C columns, down-shop surge bracings will be required.
186
Gantry Girders
Generally manufactured from universal beams the girder will sit on top of the column cap with a packing
allowance. The girder web should be laterally supported to provide a rigid connection at the cap. If two
beams are joined at the cap they must be properly spliced with splice plates either side.
Note that the beam section used for the column is extended past the capping plate to support lateral
bracing.
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Bridge Rails
Depending on the duty, the bridge rail will have a profile similar to one of those shown below, but more
often than not for light duties this will be square bar.
These rails are normally fixed by intermittent welding and if not welded with the rail securely clamped to
the beam weld, cracking will occur in service.
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It is normal to offset the rail joint from the girder splice either bolting the overlap or welding on site. A 45°
scarf joint is preferred thus avoiding point load contact at the join:
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Gantry Rail Clips
Gantry Foundations
Foundation design is the responsibility of the Civil Engineer. He would be provided with foundation bolts 188
and a template to set their position. He will be informed what loadings his foundation will be required to
take. The steel erector will then erect on the prepared foundations:
With set in holding down bolts, these are cast into pockets which allow them to float. Once the erector has
set out his stanchions, lining and levelling the caps, the stanchion bases are grouted. When the grouting is
set, loose bolts can be tightened up and the erection completed.
The crane and gantry will be tested whilst the foundation bolts are exposed so that they may be checked
after testing.
Grouted Anchors
Some foundations anchors are provided by the civil engineers set into
cones, allowing an amount of movement at the top of the anchors in
order that they align with the column fixing holes.
In the absence of such information, reference can be sought from BS466 and ISO12488, depending on the
standard to which the structure was designed.
For in-service overhead cranes, it is likely that over a period of time the gantry will move; the original
tolerances will then be exceeded. This can be caused by settlement of the structure or general vibrations
and stresses resultant from the crane movements.
The types of gantry alignment issues that are commonly found are:
Notes:
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Gantry Rail Line Problem
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Notes:
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Gantry Tolerances
BS 466 and ISO 12488-1 specify the dimensional and geometrical tolerances of tracks for top running and
under-slung cranes. BS 466 lists standard tolerances for all cranes, whereas ISO12488-1 has varied
tolerances depending on the crane classification.
In the absence of manufacturers’ specifications, the classification of a crane, as stated in ISO 12488-1 can
be calculated as follows:
The classification of the long travel drive mechanism (from ISO 4301-1) will provide the amount of service
hours (S)
L (Km travelled in crane life) = service hours (S) multiplied by the travel speed x 60
Example:
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BS 466 Tolerances
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Overhead Travelling Cranes – Step Notes – Apr 2017 – v1.3
BS 466 and ISO 12488
Tolerances
BS 466 Tolerances
The tolerance on span should be as follows:
Δ H ≤ 0.001S
Δ H Max = 10mm
Δ W = 0.025W
Track Straightness
For the total length of track, the maximum lateral deviation from the straight line mean datum should not
exceed 10mm.
Local lateral deviation at any point of the track should not be greater than L/2000, measured over a length
L of not less than 2m on a line parallel to the straight line mean datum.
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Permissible Deviation in the Vertical Plane
For the total length of the track, the maximum vertical deviation from the theoretical datum line should
not exceed 10mm. The theoretical datum line may be the true horizontal line or a theoretical camber line.
Local vertical deviation at any point of the track should not be greater than L/2000, measured over a length
L of not less than 2m on a line parallel to theoretical datum.
Running Surface Permissible Transverse Inclination from the Horizontal Datum Position
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Notes:
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Overhead Travelling Cranes – Step Notes – Apr 2017 – v1.3
Measurement of Crane Tracks
When measuring crane tracks, calibrated steel measuring tapes should be used. It is important that the
readings obtained are corrected to allow for sag in the tape and for temperature variation. All track
measurements for a particular crane should be made with the same measuring tape and the same applied
tension force.
We have previously noted that the major cause of wear on crane wheels and tracks is misalignment.
Check crane against end stops until buffers are touching, run crane back along track and come back to end
stops. Should buffers not both be touching then the crane or buffers are out of line, but in any case this
would suggest movement of the bridge girder connections.
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Notes:
The Competent Person may be able to look along a crane track and detect serious misalignment. A line and
level survey would then be required to decide what remedial action will be necessary.
Line Check
1. Working from a datum point, e.g. a string line stretched the length of the gantry, the horizontal
variations of the track would be measured and tabulated using numbered stanchions for reference
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2. Using a steel tape and tension gauge, the span of the tracks could be measured at the numbered
stanchion positions
3. The design office would lay those dimensions out as a drawing using an exaggerated scale for the
track variation
Level Check
Again working from a datum level, using either a dumpy level or some other means, deviations from the
datum level would be noted at the stanchion positions for both tracks.
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Line and Level Drawings
This drawing would show deviation in lines and levels and allow a decision to be made as to how best
remedial action could be taken.
By adjusting the datum lines it may be possible to reduce the amount of remedial work required.
Great care must be taken to ensure end clearances are maintained between crane and steelwork.
Notes:
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Levelling
Accurate levelling is far more difficult to achieve since we need to measure from an imaginary line. The
traditional method is the dumpy or automatic optical level used in conjunction with a staff.
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Line and Levelling
Positioning a dumpy (optical level) for sighting gantry rails will often need improvisation. Engineers tend to
make up their own attachments for clamping to gantry rails etc.
The level is set up using a built-in bubble, similar to a spirit level except the glass is spherical, with a circular
reticule thus providing a 360° level.
The optical level, once set up, provides our datum from which variations can be calculated as previously
explained.
Laser Levelling
A more recent innovation is the laser leveller. Power operated, the
laser leveller will automatically plumb itself. 197
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Training
Operative training for all the equipment covered in these step notes should always take the manufacturer’s
information and instructions for use into account.
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We would be grateful for your feedback regarding these Step Notes, after completing this training course.
Please make your comments known to us – you can use the note box below to list anything you would like
to bring to our attention.
We value your views and will use your comments to help our continual improvement of our learning and
development materials.
Notes:
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Overhead Travelling Cranes – Step Notes – Apr 2017 – v1.3
Andrew Wright
LEEA Learning and Development Manager
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