34
ACT
AUGUST 2013
INDUSTRY FOCUS
INSPECTIONS
Inspect all gear boxes. If they have been
stored without being filled completely
with oil, expect internal corrosion as the
condensation over time will accumulate
and the gears and bearings will rust. These
repairs can be extensive as dismantling
gear boxes and replacing corroded parts
can be a lengthy process, especially if parts
that are not normally stocked are required.
Inspect the slewing ring. This is very
important for cranes that have been stored
for a long period. If the seals are not
perfect, moisture can collect internally and
cause deterioration and corrosion. Having
a pre-prescribed inspection program can
alleviate a lot of the issues here by regularly
inspecting the slewing ring. Lead times for
replacement bearings can be as long as 24
weeks, so prompt action is needed if the
crane will be used in the near future.
Inspect all ropes according to
manufacturer’s instructions. Look for
breaks, corrosion and any indication of
damage. If the ropes were not lubricated
prior to storage there is a good chance you
will need to replace them.
Inspect all electrical components and
cables. Look for splitting or dry rotted
cables. Electrical components should be
tested under power to ensure the controls
function properly. If the crane has resistor
banks, pay attention to them as they have a
tendency to corrode internal over time.
After the evaluation, set forth a course
of action. Having a developed overhaul
program with pre-defined inspection
criteria makes this process much easier.
Don’t simply fix things. Develop a step-by-
step inspection plan to ensure compliance
with company policies and manufacturer’s
inspection criteria. Document the work
you do to prove you were diligent. If your
inspection program is comprehensive, it
will meet OSHA 1926.1412 requirements
for annual inspections.
Refurbishing a tower crane that has
been stored for a long period of time can
be a very time-consuming and costly
undertaking, and pre-planning is the key.
Once all the inspections are completed,
the crane has been tested, a fresh coat of
paint has been applied, and it has passed
your Quality Control/Quality Assurance
process, you should be good to go.
Done properly, a refurbished crane will
perform as good as a new one and ensure
your equipment operates as designed, and
give you many more years of life.
■
THE AUTHOR
Peter Juhren
,
corporate service manager,
Morrow Equipment, is
responsible for service
operations globally,
including service, spare parts, purchasing,
and training, and serves as the company’s
corporate liaison with regulatory bodies. He
has been in the crane business for 32 years.
Assess the complete steel structure, looking
for previous damage or damage that may
have occurred during storage and handling.
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