The deck crane is a slewing crane fixed on the deck for loading and unloading cargo. It has a turntable and a tilting boom, which can rotate and pitch flexibly. Its jib, lifting mechanism, luffing mechanism, slewing mechanism and manoeuvring room are set on the turntable, and with the fixed pillar as the axis, the lifting, luffing and slewing mechanisms can be manipulated at the same time to carry out loading and unloading operations. According to the different power, there are two kinds of electric drive and hydraulic drive. Its main features are compact structure, large working surface (any point within 360 degrees can be operated), convenient, safe and smooth operation, good on-site landing capacity, high loading and unloading capacity.
The following is a detailed explanation of its working principle:
Main Components:
Boom: the extendable arm of a deck crane used to reach and lift cargo.
Base: the base that supports the crane’s rotating structure. Slewing Support: the rotating component that allows the crane to rotate 360 degrees.
Operator’s cable room: located inside the slewing support, it houses the control system that operates the crane.
Main actions Lifting: the vertical movement of the hook, controlled by a type of winch known as a hoisting winch. The deck crane raises and lowers the load by means of the winch.
Pitch: the up and down movement of the boom (pitch or tilt), controlled by the pitch winch. This operation changes the angle of the boom to achieve different load positions.
Slewing: horizontal rotation of the crane (including the boom) around the base, controlled by the slewing gear. This gear allows the crane to rotate 360 degrees.
Operation process:
Preparation before lifting: The operator uses the control system to position the crane to the location where the cargo needs to be lifted or lowered and ensures that the crane is securely fastened to the deck of the vessel.
Hook Lowering and Connection: The crane’s hook is lowered to the position where the cargo needs to be lifted and then connected to the cargo, usually with wire rope, chain or other suitable connecting device.
Crane Lifting: Once the cargo is securely attached, the crane begins to lift the hook until the cargo reaches the desired discharge position.
Lowering the cargo: Once the cargo reaches its destination, the crane slowly lowers the hook so that the cargo is placed in the designated location.
Deck cranes are usually driven by hydraulics, electric motors or other power units to horizontally lift and move the hook. The operator can control the crane’s operation through a console, remote control or automated system to ensure efficient lifting and lowering of the cargo.
Generally, deck cranes are used to lift and lower cargoes by means of a hook lifting and horizontal movement mechanism in conjunction with operator control.
Applications of Deck Cranes
Deck cranes have a wide and varied range of applications. They can be used in a wide range of industries including construction, maritime, transport and mining. Deck cranes can be used for a variety of tasks such as lifting and moving heavy loads, loading and unloading vessels, and transporting materials from one location to another.
Working environment and safety.
Environmental conditions: For safety reasons, cranes are usually used in mild weather conditions. According to the instruction manual, the crane cannot be used unless the heel of the vessel is less than 5 degrees and the vertical inclination is less than 2 degrees.
Safety equipment: Cranes are equipped with various safety devices. For example, limit switches, fire extinguishers and quick stop buttons.
Training and Attitude:Operators must be adequately trained. Maintain a cautious and calm attitude when operating to prevent accidents.
In short, deck cranes effectively handle cargo on board through a combination of precise calculations, controlled movements and safety measures.
