Overhead Crane Electrical Maintenance and Inspection Guide

Overhead cranes play a crucial role in industrial production, and the safety and reliability of their electrical systems are directly related to the proper functioning of the equipment and the safety of the operators. Therefore, the maintenance of the electrical systems is a key aspect of the daily upkeep of cranes. This article provides a detailed overview of the specific tasks involved in maintaining the electrical systems of overhead cranes, aiming to be helpful to you.

Overhead Crane Electrical Maintenance

Establish maintenance system of electrical equipment, all maintenance cycles are regulated according to work duty and environmental condition of the overhead crane, all the following regulations apply for the common condition.

Daily Maintenance

Daily maintenance tasks are typically performed by crane operators during shift changes. These tasks include:

• Cleaning: Remove dust, sludge, and oil from the exterior of the electrical equipment.
• Inspection: Check for abnormal heating in motors, electromagnets, controller contacts, and resistors by touch. Inspect for oil leaks from bearings and ensure that wire joints are securely connected.
• Observation: When opening observation covers or enclosures, prevent dust and iron filings from entering internal components. Record any unusual findings for further analysis.

Bi-weekly or Ten-Day Maintenance

More thorough checks should be carried out bi-weekly or every ten days by the electrician and crane driver. The scope of maintenance is as follows:

• Internal Cleaning: Remove dust and sludge from inside the electrical equipment.
• Component Check: Inspect the wear of the brush carrier and the slip ring of the motor’s carbon brush. Check for any abnormal noise from the motor, electromagnet, relay, and electromagnetic head.
• Repair and Adjustment: Inspect and repair the controller and switch contacts.

Annual Maintenance or Overhaul

Annual maintenance or a comprehensive overhaul should be conducted by qualified electricians. This extensive overhead crane electrical maintenance process includes:

• Disassembly and Cleaning: Disassemble electrical equipment and clean them. Overhaul the supporting frames of the equipment, clean the rolling bearings of the motor, and replace the grease.
• Measurement and Replacement: Measure the gap between the rotor and stator. Replace the rolling bearings if they are uneven. Measure insulation resistance, dry it if necessary, repair all issues identified during the annual repair, and replace parts that are beyond repair. The scope of annual maintenance and overhaul is determined by the actual wear and obsolescence degree of the equipment.

Overhead Crane Electrical Inspection

1. Electric Motor

2. Current Collector System

(1) Bus Bar and Pulley Rail

(2) Current Collector

(3) Power Supply Cables

3. Electrical Components and Control System

(1) Switches

(2) Contactors

(3) Relays

(4) Controller Operation Switch

(5) Resistors

4. Wiring and Communication

Conclusion

By conducting regular maintenance and adhering to strict safety protocols, the reliability and safety of the electrical systems in overhead cranes can be significantly improved. Whether through daily inspections, periodic checks, or annual overhauls, these practices help extend the equipment's lifespan and reduce the risk of unexpected failures and accidents. Ensuring the stability of the electrical system not only enhances operational efficiency but also provides a safer working environment for operators.

I am Cindy, with 10 years of working experience in the crane industry and accumulated a wealth of professional knowledge. I have chosen the satisfying cranes for 500+ customers. If you have any needs or questions about cranes, please feel free to contact me, I will use my expertise and practical experience to help you solve the problem!