Lorry-mounted cranes also known as lorry loaders, play a crucial role in various industries, from construction to logistics. These versatile machines simplify the lifting and transportation of heavy loads, enhancing efficiency and productivity. However, like any mechanical equipment, lorry-mounted cranes require regular maintenance to ensure their safe and efficient operation. This helps to extend the life of the machinery as well as increasing resale value by showing that it has been well looked after.
However, not just any service will do, and there are some important things to consider when looking at the servicing of your equipment. Here are 10 key factors you’ll want to bear in mind when having your crane serviced so you can ensure it’s getting the level of maintenance required in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations. If you have any questions about servicing and maintenance then please do get in touch today and one of our experienced team will be happy to assist you.
The Servicing Intervals of Your Crane
Regular servicing is the foundation of crane maintenance. Manufacturers typically provide service intervals and guidelines in the user manual. Adhering to the manufacturer’s recommendations is the best way to prevent unexpected breakdowns and ensure safety. Most commonly, the recommendation is to have your lorry-mounted crane serviced at least once a year, or after a specific number of working hours, and commonly more frequently depending on the crane’s usage and application. Palfinger cranes are manufactured in accordance with the requirements of EN12999, the applicable industry standard which ensures adherence to the Essential Health & Safety Requirements (EHSR’s) of the Machinery Directive.
Certified Technicians
When it comes to servicing lorry-mounted cranes, using a fully certified technician is crucial. These professionals possess the necessary expertise and training to identify and address potential issues. They are familiar with the intricacies of crane components and are best equipped to provide effective solutions while maintaining safety standards. At Palfinger UK, all our technicians are fully trained to rigorous standards. We’re proud to be the industry leader in lorry-mounted cranes and we firmly believe that our investment in the constant development of our team plays a huge part in this. All our engineers are fully trained to factory standards and are on the ALLMI-Approved Thorough Examiner Register. By choosing us to carry out your routine servicing, you’re guaranteeing your machinery will conform to the latest standards, having been checked by the best engineers in the industry.
Safety Inspections
Safety is paramount in crane maintenance. Before any servicing, ensure that a comprehensive visual inspection is carried out. This inspection should check for signs of wear, damage, or misalignment. A well-maintained safety system is vital to prevent accidents and injuries, so further function tests should then be carried out prior to any maintenance work.
Lubrication
Proper lubrication is essential to prevent friction and wear on moving parts. Neglecting this aspect of maintenance can lead to costly repairs or even the replacement of key components. Lubrication schedules should be strictly followed, and the right type of grease or oil should be used as recommended by the manufacturer. As part of a Palfinger routine service, we grease the loader at all points, making sure your crane is operating at maximum efficiency.
Structural Integrity
Lorry-mounted cranes are subjected to significant stresses during their operation. It’s crucial to regularly inspect the crane’s structural components, such as the boom, outriggers, and chassis. Any signs of fatigue, deformation, or cracks should be addressed immediately. Damaged structural components can lead to catastrophic failures.
Hydraulic System Maintenance
The hydraulic system is the heart of a lorry-mounted crane, enabling smooth and precise lifting and lowering of loads. A well-maintained hydraulic system ensures the crane’s overall performance and safety. Technicians should inspect hoses, seals, and hydraulic fluid levels regularly. Leaks or low fluid levels can lead to inefficient operation and costly damage. At Palfinger UK, our servicing includes cleaning or replacing oil filters as required, topping up hydraulic oil and making adjustments to the hydraulic system as needed to ensure safe and effective operation.
Electrical Systems
Modern lorry-mounted cranes often have complex electrical systems that control various functions, including load monitoring, safety interlocks, and lighting. Regular checks and maintenance of the electrical components are essential to prevent malfunctions and ensure the safety of the crane operator and those in the vicinity.
Load Testing
Periodic load testing is a critical aspect of crane servicing. It ensures that the crane can safely handle the loads it’s designed for. Load testing should be carried out to verify the crane’s performance and safety in accordance with the requirements outlined in BS7121 Part 2-4 Any deviations from the manufacturer’s specifications should be addressed promptly.
Documentation and Records
Maintaining accurate records of servicing and inspections is essential for tracking the crane’s maintenance history. This documentation can be valuable for warranty claims and resale value. It also provides a comprehensive overview of the crane’s maintenance and can help identify patterns or recurring issues.
Budget Planning
Servicing a lorry-mounted crane, like any heavy equipment, can be expensive. It’s important to budget for routine maintenance as well as unexpected repairs. Alternatively, why not consider one of our maintenance contracts? We offer several packages and cover all maintenance required for your machinery for a single monthly payment. You can call our dedicated Service Control Centre on 01380 733513 to find out more.
The servicing of lorry-mounted cranes is a critical aspect of their operation. Regular maintenance not only ensures the safety of operators and bystanders but also extends the crane’s lifespan and maintains its efficiency. By adhering to recommended service intervals, hiring certified technicians, and prioritising safety, you can reap the full benefits of your crane while minimising downtime and costly repairs. Make it a priority to invest in the regular servicing and maintenance of your lorry-mounted crane to guarantee its continued safe and efficient operation.
Servicing Your Lorry-Mounted Crane With Palfinger UK
At Palfinger UK, we provide a full and comprehensive aftersales package to keep your machinery in perfect working order. We offer several servicing options, from full maintenance contracts to one-off, on-demand services to suit you. Whatever your requirements, who better to service your Palfinger lorry-mounted crane than Palfinger UK? Our technicians are fully certified and among the best in the industry. What’s more, we’ll even come out to you to minimise the disruption to your schedule. To speak to one of the team about our servicing options, use our Contact page to find your nearest Palfinger UK representative.