One of the visibly most distinctive features in an overhead crane has always been the hoist’s power supply by cable and the attendant guide track plus hauling machine. This familiar picture does now have a contestant in a nearly invisible power supply. The low-wear energy chain continues its way into crane technology.
From July 2007 it will be possible to use energy chains as power supply for the customised SWF Krantechnik GmbH crane component packages “Krankit“ for overhead cranes. This will be possible when using electric wire rope hoists NOVA type NB to ND in low headroom build with a maximum load of 20 tons. The main girder can have up to 30 meters span width and must have a minimum height of 290 mm. Possible are either standard profile or welded box girders.
The chain links, made of robust PVC plastic, are designed for trolley travelling speeds of 32m / min. The energy chain’s guide through is made from stalwart galvanized steel and is installed directly on the main girder. The crane is controlled by remote control system RadioMaster. In addition to that a spare pendant with cable connection to the crane cubicle can be installed.
At present the power supply for only one hoist per girder is intended and the energy chain can also only be used for single girder cranes. In late summer 2007 these restrictions will be abolished and the use with double girder cranes and hoists in normal build will be possible. It will also be possible then to run up to four hoists per crane on the energy chain power supply, as well as the use of hoists with frequency inverter control for hoisting.
Boehringer Str. 4