Mobile cranes are interesting human inventions used in industries across the globe. They are most commonly known for lifting heavy weights and can be driven to any location, unlike other crane types. However, once you rent them from small crane rentals, these cranes need to be set up, which is not often talked about. So, let’s talk about how mobile cranes are prepared in detail before they can do wonders for engineers.

Creating A Plan

Many people assume that setting up a mobile crane and lifting heavy weights is quite simple. What they fail to consider is the risks that come with it. You might have observed engineers creating a plan on site especially when setting up a mobile crane.

Even before the crane can reach the site, the contractors need to clear the space up and remove any obstacles that might create complications. One has to keep in mind that construction sites are extremely busy places. Considering the mental and physical stress, it is easy to make minor mistakes that could cost a lot of time.

This is why it is important to have everything laid out on a piece of paper so that everyone is on the same page. Creating a plan provides an insight into how the setting up process will take place. For instance, the construction site may have power or sewerage lines that might come in contact.

Based on the amount of space available, you need to keep an eye out for the surroundings as well. If the construction area is slightly limited, the maneuverability of the crane will also be affected. That said, some engineers plan and track every single movement of the crane.

Travel Planning

Another misconception surrounding mobile cranes is that they can be easily driven at any time of the day whenever the need arrives. In reality, these cranes need a permit to be allowed to be operated on the roads. Sometimes, if multiple cranes are being transported through motorways or highways, an entire lane is blocked to keep regular traffic away.

Furthermore, mobile cranes also have GPS but that does not mean you can hop onto the driver’s seat and begin moving to your destination. The route needs to be inspected and taken into consideration as well, especially if the crane is bigger. The bigger the crane, the more thorough the planning. You may even need heavy machinery moving DC services for moving bigger cranes.

Smaller cranes are relatively easier to move through the streets without risking the power lines and other factors. However, if the crane is big and there is no other way of reaching the destination other than the narrow streets, a plan needs to be made to make the process easy and safe.

In addition to that, there is also a team on the ground that helps the operator move in the right direction using hand signals. Furthermore, there are also some roads and bridges the cranes cannot use. In such a case, the crane will need to go around even if they have to cover an extra 100 miles.

Perform An Inspection

Before the crane is transported to the destination and once it has reached, performing an inspection is important. Some states require contractors to perform an inspection both before and after lifting and shifting weights. It might be that the crane has incurred some damage along the way and is not visible to the operator.

On the other hand, cranes are made to lift and move heavy loads. This means minor damages, cracks, etc. are not surprising. However, it is necessary to keep an eye out and fix or repair the issues immediately. You cannot take any risks or second chances while lifting weights.

Even if there is a small leak somewhere in the hydraulics area, you need to inform the relevant authority before the lifting process can begin.

Double-Check The Placement

Once the crane has arrived at its destination, it needs to be properly placed to help lift and shift the loads. Placement aims to ensure the crane is stable and the earth underneath the ground is strong enough to support the crane’s weight once it digs its outriggers into the ground.

Keep in mind that the placement of the crane should be such that it is easy to move around. If you are using additional equipment, you will want to make space accordingly. If crane stability and traction are a concern, you can either move the crane to another location or make the foundation underneath a bit stronger.

Inspect The Ground

Although mobile cranes can be driven to any destination, the ground and terrain conditions sometimes make it difficult or impossible. Cranes are extremely heavy themselves and lifting weights adds more to it. This means it is easy for the crane to topple or lose traction if the ground does not support it.

Additionally, the terrain needs to be inspected as well. If there is snow or mud, the crane will use additional equipment that will help with traction. If ignored, the crane will simply not be able to perform and you will end up wasting both time and money.

If one spot does not work, keep some as backups. This way, you will be able to move to another spot quickly without having to spend more time building and planning.

Test Everything First

By this time, you are done with setting up the crane and need to make some final checks. The Best way to do that is by performing some tests. Do a test life of the crane by attaching some lighter loads and moving them around. Perform a few maneuvers to ensure the crane is not making unusual noises or issues.

At the same time, make sure the crane can easily move around and is not coming in contact with other items in the surroundings. Additionally, have a team on the ground as well to make sure the crane is at a safe distance. Plus, the crane should not move while it is lifting heavy loads.

If the ground underneath is moving, the crane needs to be stopped to prevent accidents.

Consider External Factors

External factors play a huge role in terms of safety while lifting loads. For instance, strong winds and thunderstorms can imbalance the load and cause the crane to topple. This is why you must check the weather forecast before the crane is set up and loads are lifted.

Even though modern cranes are loaded with safety and stability features, things become risky as the crane reaches extreme heights. To avoid serious accidents, track weather changes to make changes to the lifting plans accordingly.

Conclusion

Setting up mobile cranes is mostly about running checks and planning every move. Even the slightest crane movements can be risky and need special consideration and attention to keep everything safe on the site. You must plan for everything from the transport of the crane from crane truck rentals VA to the position and role of the crane on the work site. The tips mentioned above are tried and tested and will ensure all your crane-related tasks are thoroughly planned to successfully lift and move loads.