In recent years, the market for truck-mounted cranes has witnessed an extraordinary upsurge. These versatile machines are frequently spotted in various locations such as stations, docks, warehouses, construction sites, and even in field rescue scenarios. The adaptability of truck-mounted cranes lies in their ability to be flexibly outfitted with cargo boxes of varying lengths and cranes of different tonnage capacities. Moreover, water tanks can be incorporated within the carriage to transform them into truck-mounted crane water sprinklers. The allure of truck-mounted cranes has led many to consider purchasing them. But how well-versed are you in this specialized vehicle model? And what routine inspections should typically be carried out on truck-mounted cranes? These not only have a bearing on the service life of the vehicle but are also closely intertwined with your financial investment.
The components of a truck-mounted crane encompass a diverse range: the boom, load indicator, hoisting mechanism, column, slewing system, frame base, hydraulic oil tank, outrigger control lever, outrigger cylinder, horn, accelerator control lever, slewing control lever, luffing control lever, hoisting control lever, power take-off (PTO), luffing cylinder, hook pulley block, wire rope, overwind alarm device, and rear outrigger.
Do the owners of truck-mounted cranes frequently and meticulously inspect their cherished vehicles? Thorough and conscientious inspections can significantly prolong the lifespan of a truck-mounted crane. Let’s delve into the areas that are commonly inspected for these vehicles.
One of the crucial checks is to verify whether the various connecting pipelines of the truck-mounted crane are securely fastened and to ensure there are no signs of oil leakage. Any loose connections or leaks can lead to reduced efficiency of the hydraulic system or even pose safety hazards. For instance, a loose pipe connection in the hydraulic system could result in pressure loss, affecting the crane’s lifting capacity and precision. Regular inspections help detect such issues early and prevent potential malfunctions.
A meticulous examination should be conducted to determine if there is any loosening among the various fasteners of the vehicle. The focus should primarily be on the stability of the fasteners connecting the crossbeam to the chassis frame, the slewing bearing to the crossbeam, and the column. Loose fasteners in these critical areas can compromise the structural integrity of the crane, especially during heavy lifting operations. This could potentially lead to structural failures and accidents.
The hydraulic cylinder of the truck-mounted crane is subjected to frequent usage and, as such, demands regular checks of both the hydraulic oil and the lubricating oil. In accordance with the maintenance manual, the hydraulic oil should be replaced at stipulated intervals to ensure optimal performance and prevent premature wear of the components. Adequate lubrication of the hydraulic cylinder is essential to minimize friction and extend its operational lifespan.
Prior to each departure, it is imperative to inspect whether the power take-off control switch of the truck-mounted crane is functioning properly and whether the pressure gauge indicates normal readings. An abnormal power take-off control switch or an erratic pressure gauge can indicate underlying issues with the power transmission or hydraulic system, which if left unaddressed, could lead to operational failures during crucial lifting tasks.
Another aspect not to be overlooked is to carefully inspect whether the surfaces of the components of the truck-mounted crane are marred by damage or deformation. Any such damage can affect the performance and reliability of the components. For example, a deformed boom or a cracked column could compromise the crane’s lifting capacity and safety.
The driver of the truck-mounted crane should also vigilantly check whether the synchronous wire rope that drives the telescopic boom is distorted or loose. In the event of either condition, the nut should be promptly adjusted and tightened. A loose or deformed synchronous wire rope can lead to asynchronous movement of the boom, affecting the accuracy and stability of the lifting operation.
The seals of various parts of the truck-mounted crane should be inspected frequently to prevent the ingress of water and other foreign substances into the system. Moisture or contaminants can cause corrosion and degradation of the internal components, reducing the efficiency and lifespan of the crane.
The final item in the routine inspection checklist is to assess, when the engine is started and running, whether the sound characteristics and temperature of the hydraulic system are within the normal range. Unusual sounds or excessive temperatures can be indicators of potential problems such as pump failures, blocked valves, or insufficient fluid circulation within the hydraulic system.
These eight items constitute the routine inspections for a truck-mounted crane. Friends contemplating the purchase of a truck-mounted crane might find this information valuable. I can recommend a truck-mounted crane of superior quality and reliable after-sales service for everyone – the CSCTRUCK Scenery Single-axle 8-ton Truck-Mounted Crane. For specific configurations, you can seek consultation on the CSCTRUCK Network!
In conclusion, adhering to a strict and comprehensive routine inspection regime for your truck-mounted crane is not only a matter of ensuring its longevity and efficient operation but also a crucial step in maintaining safety and reliability in various lifting and transportation tasks.
