This is the right way to operate a truck-mounted crane

In today’s construction and transportation industries, truck-mounted cranes have become essential pieces of equipment. As more and more people are purchasing truck-mounted cranes, it is crucial for beginners to understand and master the correct operation methods. For those newcomers who have just entered the industry, having only some theoretical knowledge is not enough; they must also know how to operate these powerful machines safely and efficiently.

First and foremost, observing the working site of the truck-mounted crane is of utmost importance. When parking the vehicle, it should be placed in a relatively flat and stable place. This is essential to ensure the stability and safety of the crane during operation. A flat surface provides a solid foundation for the outriggers to spread out and support the weight of the crane and the load being lifted.

Selecting an appropriate angle for lifting operations is also crucial. The angle should be chosen based on the location of the cargo, the surrounding obstacles, and the reach of the crane. By choosing the right angle, the operator can maximize the efficiency of the lifting operation and minimize the risk of accidents.

Ensuring there is enough space for the left and right outriggers to fully open is another key consideration. The outriggers play a vital role in stabilizing the crane, and they need sufficient space to extend completely. Before parking the vehicle, the operator should carefully assess the surrounding area to make sure there are no obstacles that would prevent the outriggers from opening fully.

At the same time, parking the vehicle at an appropriate distance from the cargo is essential. The distance should be determined based on the weight of the cargo and the reach of the crane. If the vehicle is too close to the cargo, it may be difficult to maneuver the crane and there is a risk of the crane hitting the vehicle or the cargo. On the other hand, if the vehicle is too far away from the cargo, the crane may not be able to reach the load or may have to operate at its maximum reach, which can reduce stability and increase the risk of accidents.

For example, imagine a construction site where a truck-mounted crane is needed to lift heavy steel beams. The operator must carefully choose a flat and stable area to park the vehicle. They need to consider the location of the beams and select an angle that allows the crane to reach the beams easily. They also need to make sure there is enough space for the outriggers to open fully and park the vehicle at an appropriate distance from the beams to ensure a safe and efficient lifting operation.

Starting the engine is the next step in operating a truck-mounted crane. Once the engine is running, the operator should wait until the air pressure reaches the required value. This is important because the power take-off system, which is used to power the crane, requires a certain amount of air pressure to operate properly.

When the air pressure is sufficient, the operator should step on the clutch pedal and shift the gear lever to neutral. This disengages the transmission and allows the power take-off to be engaged without putting stress on the transmission. Then, the operator should press the power take-off button and pull out the manual air valve of the power take-off. Slowly releasing the clutch pedal engages the power take-off and transfers power from the engine to the crane.

Here is one very important point to note. Before connecting the power take-off, make sure the control handle is in the neutral position. This is crucial to prevent the crane from suddenly starting to move when the power take-off is engaged. If the control handle is not in the neutral position, the crane could start to move unexpectedly, causing damage to the equipment or injury to people nearby.

For instance, suppose an operator is about to start a truck-mounted crane at a construction site. They wait for the air pressure to reach the required level, step on the clutch pedal, shift to neutral, and then engage the power take-off. By ensuring the control handle is in the neutral position, they can avoid any unexpected movements of the crane and start the operation safely.

Before officially starting the lifting operation, conducting another inspection is essential to ensure safe operation. This inspection should include checking whether all parts of the equipment are normal. The operator should look for any signs of damage, wear, or loose connections on the crane, outriggers, cables, and hooks.

Checking for any idlers in the working range of the crane is also crucial. Idlers can pose a serious risk to the safety of the operation. They can get caught in the moving parts of the crane or cause the load to shift unexpectedly. The operator should carefully scan the working area to make sure there are no people, animals, or other objects that could interfere with the operation.

For example, before lifting a heavy load at a warehouse, the operator conducts a thorough inspection of the truck-mounted crane. They check the crane’s structure for any cracks or deformations, inspect the cables for fraying, and ensure that all connections are tight. They also look around the working area to make sure there are no idlers or obstacles that could pose a risk.

During operation, it must be operated according to the schematic diagram on the operation handle. First, turn the selector valve to the outrigger position on the sign and operate the outrigger. This step is crucial for stabilizing the crane and ensuring safe lifting operations.

Open the locking device of the movable outrigger. According to the corresponding marks on the operation lever, extend the left and right horizontal outriggers and the left and right vertical outrigger cylinders. This process should be done carefully and methodically to ensure that the outriggers are fully extended and properly positioned.

It is extremely important to ensure that the outriggers are fully extended to support the crane operation. All outriggers must be fully on the ground and the vehicle cannot be suspended. If the outriggers are not fully extended or if the vehicle is suspended, the crane may be unstable and there is a high risk of tipping over.

For instance, when setting up a truck-mounted crane at a construction site, the operator follows the schematic diagram on the operation handle to operate the outriggers. They open the locking devices, extend the horizontal and vertical outriggers carefully, and make sure that all outriggers are firmly on the ground and providing stable support for the crane.

Finally, it is time for the lifting operation of the crane. This should be done with extreme caution and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines.

During this entire working process, there are several points to note. Check whether the stop valve on the hydraulic oil tank is opened. If it is not opened, it must be opened and the oil quantity in the tank should be checked. The oil level cannot be higher or lower than the maximum or minimum mark. Adequate hydraulic oil is essential for the proper operation of the crane’s hydraulic system.

The vehicle’s fuel must be sufficient to avoid power interruption during the working process. Running out of fuel in the middle of an operation can be extremely dangerous and can lead to loss of control of the crane and damage to the equipment or cargo.

At the same time, check whether the battery pack is normal to ensure that it can be started at any time when the power is interrupted. A reliable battery pack is crucial for emergency situations or when there is a power failure.

Check the entire power pipeline, and there cannot be any oil leakage or pressure loss. Oil leaks can not only cause damage to the environment but also reduce the efficiency of the hydraulic system and increase the risk of accidents.

For example, during a lifting operation at a manufacturing plant, the operator carefully checks the hydraulic oil tank stop valve, fuel level, battery pack, and power pipeline before starting the crane. They ensure that everything is in proper working order to minimize the risk of accidents and ensure a successful lifting operation.

In conclusion, operating a truck-mounted crane requires careful attention to detail and strict adherence to safety procedures. By following these steps and being vigilant throughout the operation, operators can ensure the safety of themselves, others, and the equipment. Whether it’s on a construction site, in a warehouse, or at any other location, proper operation of a truck-mounted crane is essential for efficient and safe work.