Be sure to master this knowledge before operating a truck-mounted crane

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The operation of a truck-mounted crane is a complex and potentially dangerous task that requires a high level of skill and knowledge. Unlike other vehicles, a truck-mounted crane is equipped with a hoist, which adds an extra layer of risk. If not operated carefully, there is a significant risk of overturning, which can lead to serious accidents and damage. Therefore, the operator of a truck-mounted crane transportation vehicle must master certain professional knowledge to ensure safe and efficient operation.

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In the operation of the truck-mounted crane, the following points must be noted:
  1. Understand the size of the cargo, find the distance from the center of the cargo to the center of the crane column, and learn to check the lifting capacity parameters of the crane according to the distance.
Before attempting to lift any cargo with a truck-mounted crane, it is essential to have a clear understanding of the size and weight of the cargo. This information is crucial for determining the appropriate lifting method and ensuring that the crane is capable of handling the load. By measuring the distance from the center of the cargo to the center of the crane column, the operator can refer to the crane’s lifting capacity parameters to determine if the crane can safely lift the cargo at that distance.

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For example, if the cargo is a large and heavy object, such as a steel beam or a piece of machinery, the operator needs to carefully calculate the distance and weight to ensure that the crane can handle the load without overloading. If the crane is not properly matched to the cargo, it can lead to instability and potential accidents.
  1. Know that the moment of the crane is fixed. The larger the radius of the crane, the lighter the cargo that can be lifted. The smaller the working radius, the heavier the cargo that can be lifted.

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The concept of moment is crucial in understanding the capabilities of a truck-mounted crane. The moment of a crane is determined by the product of the force applied (the weight of the cargo) and the distance from the pivot point (the center of the crane column). Since the moment of the crane is fixed, as the radius (working distance) of the crane increases, the weight of the cargo that can be lifted must decrease to maintain the same moment. Conversely, as the working radius decreases, the crane can handle heavier cargo.
Imagine a situation where the operator needs to lift a heavy load at a short distance from the crane column. In this case, the crane can handle a relatively heavy weight because the moment is smaller due to the shorter radius. However, if the same load needs to be lifted at a greater distance, the crane may not be able to handle the weight due to the increased moment.

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  1. Consider the lifting capacity of the crane and the bearing capacity of the chassis size. A large girder has strong bearing capacity. The crane and the chassis should be matched. If the chassis is small and the crane is large, the chassis girder is easily broken. If the chassis is large and the crane is small, it will cause waste.
The lifting capacity of the crane must be matched with the bearing capacity of the chassis. A truck-mounted crane is a complex system that consists of both the crane and the vehicle chassis. The chassis provides the support and stability for the crane, and its bearing capacity must be sufficient to handle the loads imposed by the crane.

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If the chassis is too small or weak for the crane, it can lead to structural damage, such as a broken chassis girder. This can be extremely dangerous and can result in serious accidents. On the other hand, if the chassis is too large and the crane is too small, it can be a waste of resources and may not be cost-effective.
For instance, when choosing a truck-mounted crane, the operator must carefully consider the size and strength of the chassis in relation to the lifting capacity of the crane. This requires knowledge of both the crane’s specifications and the capabilities of different chassis models.

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Now let’s briefly understand some solutions to small problems of truck-mounted cranes.
  1. What’s the matter with the increase in hydraulic oil temperature during the operation of the truck-mounted crane?
Reason: Insufficient hydraulic oil or contaminated hydraulic oil. Insufficient oil may be due to oil leakage or a design defect of the truck-mounted crane. Generally, contaminated hydraulic oil mainly refers to the pollution of oil oxides, which will then cause blockage of the cooling system and filters, and ultimately lead to an increase in oil temperature.

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When the hydraulic oil temperature in a truck-mounted crane increases during operation, it can be a sign of a problem. Insufficient hydraulic oil can occur due to various reasons. Oil leakage is a common cause, where the hydraulic system may have a leak in a hose, seal, or other component. This can result in a loss of oil and a decrease in the volume of oil available for circulation. Additionally, a design defect in the truck-mounted crane may also lead to insufficient oil, such as a poorly designed reservoir or an inadequate pumping system.
Contaminated hydraulic oil is another factor that can cause an increase in temperature. As hydraulic oil is used over time, it can become contaminated with oil oxides, dirt, and other particles. These contaminants can clog the cooling system and filters, reducing the efficiency of heat dissipation and causing the oil temperature to rise.

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For example, if a truck-mounted crane has a leak in a hydraulic hose, it can lead to a gradual loss of oil. As the oil level drops, the system may not be able to circulate the oil effectively, resulting in increased friction and heat generation. Similarly, if the hydraulic oil is contaminated with oil oxides, it can block the cooling channels and filters, preventing proper cooling and leading to a rise in temperature.
  1. Hydraulic oil color problem: The color of hydraulic oil that has been used for a long time deepens due to the formation of pigments. This is a normal situation. Because pigments are soluble in oil, they will not affect the quality of hydraulic oil. So we cannot judge the quality by the color of hydraulic oil.

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As hydraulic oil is used over time, its color may change. This is often due to the formation of pigments as a result of oxidation and other chemical processes. While the color change may be noticeable, it is generally a normal occurrence and does not necessarily indicate a problem with the quality of the oil.
Pigments that form in hydraulic oil are usually soluble in the oil and do not have a significant impact on its performance. Therefore, relying solely on the color of the oil to determine its quality can be misleading. Other factors such as viscosity, acidity, and the presence of contaminants are more important indicators of the oil’s condition.

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For instance, if a truck-mounted crane has been in operation for a long time, the hydraulic oil may take on a darker color. However, as long as the oil meets the required specifications for viscosity and other properties, it can still be used safely.
  1. Service life of lubricating oil. The service life of lubricating oil is affected by air, heat, impurities, and water. However, when the lubricating oil is completely purified and below 60 degrees Celsius, the change is very small and can be used for a long time. If there is consumption, it can be added appropriately.

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The service life of lubricating oil in a truck-mounted crane is influenced by several factors. Air, heat, impurities, and water can all degrade the oil over time and reduce its effectiveness. However, if the lubricating oil is kept clean and maintained at a relatively low temperature (below 60 degrees Celsius), it can have a longer service life.
When the lubricating oil is completely purified, it is free from contaminants that can accelerate its degradation. At lower temperatures, the chemical reactions that cause oil degradation occur more slowly, allowing the oil to maintain its properties for a longer period.

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If there is consumption of lubricating oil during operation, it can be added appropriately. However, it is important to ensure that the added oil is of the same type and quality as the original oil to avoid compatibility issues.
For example, if a truck-mounted crane is operating in a hot and dusty environment, the lubricating oil may be exposed to more heat and contaminants, reducing its service life. Regular maintenance and filtration can help extend the life of the oil by removing impurities and keeping it clean.

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During normal use of the truck-mounted crane, pay attention to doing daily maintenance. In this way, the probability of failures during operation will be greatly reduced and work efficiency will be greatly improved. Daily maintenance includes checking the hydraulic system for leaks, inspecting the crane’s structural components for signs of damage or wear, and ensuring that all lubrication points are properly lubricated. By performing these routine tasks, the operator can catch potential problems early and prevent them from developing into major failures.
In conclusion, operating a truck-mounted crane requires a thorough understanding of its capabilities and limitations. By following the guidelines for cargo size, crane moment, and chassis matching, and being aware of common problems and their solutions, the operator can ensure safe and efficient operation. Additionally, regular daily maintenance is essential for prolonging the life of the truck-mounted crane and reducing the risk of failures. With proper knowledge and care, a truck-mounted crane can be a valuable asset in various industries.

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