One of the winter maintenance of truck mounted crane

SHACMAN M3000S 23 Ton Knuckle Boom Crane (2)
Moisture-proof techniques for truck-mounted cranes to be cautious of moisture and avoid potential safety hazards are of utmost importance during the winter season. Moisture can pose several significant risks to the proper functioning and safety of truck-mounted cranes, and understanding these risks and implementing appropriate preventive measures is essential for ensuring the longevity and reliability of these valuable pieces of equipment.
  1. Truck-mounted cranes are prone to breeding bacteria and odors. The interior environment of most vehicles is mostly enclosed. Bacteria are more likely to reproduce and grow in a humid environment. Some sundries in the vehicle, such as rags and biscuit boxes, are prone to mildew. Odors appear, polluting the compartment and then affecting the body.

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Let’s explore this in more detail. The enclosed nature of the truck-mounted crane‘s cabin provides an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive when moisture is present. The combination of warmth and humidity can cause bacteria to multiply rapidly. Rags left in the vehicle can absorb moisture and become a breeding ground for bacteria. Biscuit boxes and other food containers can also attract moisture and promote the growth of mold and mildew. As these bacteria and mold grow, they release unpleasant odors that can permeate the cabin, making it an uncomfortable environment for the operator. Not only is this unpleasant, but it can also pose a health risk. Breathing in these contaminated air can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues.
To prevent the growth of bacteria and odors, it is important to keep the interior of the truck-mounted crane clean and dry. Regularly remove any unnecessary items from the cabin, especially those that are prone to absorbing moisture. Use a disinfectant cleaner to wipe down surfaces and remove any dirt or grime that can attract moisture. Keep the windows cracked open when possible to allow for air circulation and reduce humidity. Additionally, consider using a dehumidifier or moisture-absorbing products to help keep the air dry.
  1. Hinges and latches are prone to rust. Parking the vehicle outdoors for a long time, in addition to the welded parts of the door and the vehicle body being prone to rust and corrosion, the iron parts such as hinges and latches inside the door are also easily affected by moisture and rust because they are covered by the door trim panel.

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The hinges and latches of truck-mounted cranes are often overlooked when it comes to maintenance, but they are vulnerable to moisture damage. When the vehicle is parked outdoors for extended periods, especially in wet and cold winter weather, moisture can seep into these areas and cause rust to form. The door trim panel can act as a barrier, trapping moisture and preventing it from drying out. Over time, this can lead to rusting of the hinges and latches, making them difficult to operate and potentially compromising the security of the doors.
To prevent rust on hinges and latches, regularly inspect these areas for signs of moisture or rust. Apply a protective coating of lubricant or rust inhibitor to these parts to help prevent moisture from penetrating. If rust has already started to form, use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove the rust and then apply a new coat of rust inhibitor. Consider parking the truck-mounted crane in a covered area or using a waterproof cover to protect it from the elements.
  1. The chassis is prone to rust. The chassis of truck-mounted cranes has more contact with water. And affected by road conditions, it is most prone to rust. In addition, the car chassis is not exposed to sunlight all year round. Moisture can also seep into the car body through the small holes in the chassis and rust the body, causing the paint to peel off.

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The chassis of a truck-mounted crane is constantly exposed to moisture, dirt, and road salts, making it highly susceptible to rust. Water can splash up from the road and collect on the chassis, especially during rainy or snowy weather. The lack of sunlight on the chassis also makes it difficult for any moisture to dry out, creating an ideal environment for rust to form. Small holes in the chassis can allow moisture to seep into the body of the vehicle, leading to rusting of the metal and potentially causing the paint to peel off. This not only affects the appearance of the vehicle but can also weaken the structural integrity of the chassis.
To protect the chassis from rust, regularly wash and clean it to remove any dirt and debris that can hold moisture. Apply a protective coating of rust inhibitor or undercoating to the chassis to help prevent moisture from penetrating. Inspect the chassis for any signs of damage or rust and address any issues promptly. Avoid driving through deep puddles or areas with standing water whenever possible to reduce the amount of moisture that comes into contact with the chassis.
  1. Brake system failure. Since brake fluid is easily mixed with water. Due to the humid weather, a large amount of accumulated water vapor on the brake tank can easily enter the brake fluid. If there is moisture entering the brake fluid, during braking, the high temperature generated by friction will vaporize the water vapor.

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Moisture in the brake system can be extremely dangerous as it can lead to brake system failure. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it has the ability to absorb moisture from the air. In humid weather conditions, water vapor can accumulate on the brake tank and easily mix with the brake fluid. When moisture enters the brake fluid, it can reduce the boiling point of the fluid and cause it to vaporize when the brakes are applied. This can lead to a loss of braking power and potentially cause an accident.
To prevent moisture from entering the brake system, regularly check the brake fluid level and condition. If the fluid appears cloudy or discolored, it may indicate the presence of moisture. Have the brake fluid flushed and replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Avoid parking the truck-mounted crane in areas with high humidity for extended periods. If possible, use a desiccant bag in the brake fluid reservoir to help absorb any moisture that may enter.
  1. Speakers and CDs are prone to moisture. As the humidity increases, it will be difficult to read discs when playing CDs. The audio system of truck-mounted cranes is easily rained on and gets dampened when driving with the windows open. If the speakers are found to be dampened, go to a professional service point for maintenance in time.

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The audio system of a truck-mounted crane can also be affected by moisture. As humidity increases, the CD player may have difficulty reading discs due to condensation on the surface of the disc. Speakers can also become dampened if exposed to moisture, either from rain or high humidity. This can affect the sound quality and potentially damage the speakers.
To protect the audio system from moisture, avoid leaving CDs in the player for extended periods, especially in humid weather. If the vehicle is exposed to rain or moisture, dry the audio system as soon as possible using a dry cloth or a hair dryer on a low setting. If the speakers become dampened, do not attempt to use them until they have been properly dried out. If the problem persists, take the vehicle to a professional audio service center for inspection and repair.
  1. Headlights are prone to water ingress. After water enters the headlights, the brightness will be affected. If a lot of water enters, it may also damage the headlights and change the irradiation direction of the lights, bringing potential safety hazards to driving.

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Headlights are essential for safe driving, but they can be vulnerable to moisture damage. Water can enter the headlights through cracks or seals that have deteriorated over time. Once water gets inside, it can affect the brightness and clarity of the lights, reducing visibility at night or in bad weather. In severe cases, water can damage the internal components of the headlights and change the irradiation direction, creating a hazard for the driver and other road users.
To prevent water from entering the headlights, regularly inspect the seals and lenses for any signs of damage or wear. Replace any damaged seals or lenses promptly. Avoid washing the vehicle with high-pressure water directly on the headlights, as this can force water into the seals. If water does enter the headlights, take the vehicle to a professional auto repair shop to have the headlights inspected and repaired as soon as possible.
In conclusion, moisture can pose significant risks to the safety and functionality of truck-mounted cranes during the winter months. By being aware of these risks and implementing appropriate moisture-proof techniques, operators can help ensure the longevity and reliability of their equipment and reduce the potential for accidents and breakdowns. Regular maintenance, proper storage, and attention to detail can go a long way in protecting these valuable assets from the damaging effects of moisture.

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