Crane bodies improve productivity and efficiency and are vital for safe installations, repairs, and maintenance in the telecom, utility, and gas industries. Standard options come in different sizes and feature unique materials optimized for routine applications.
However, the pre-built models may not suit your needs. You can order custom crane bodies designed with your business, applications, and operations in mind. Below are some insights on how to choose the ideal crane body for your application.
Review the Crane Applications
Determine the objects your crane will carry (cinder blocks, branches, pipes, etc.). You should also outline the maximum weight the crane will lift and the required elevation it needs to reach.
You can find crane bodies for materials (construction, shipment loading/offloading, etc.) or people (electricians, painters, janitors, etc.). You should review the crane's application to identify minimum requirements and capacity.
Choose a Body Option
You'll encounter three types of crane body options; hydraulic, electric, and articulating cranes. Each crane type has unique lift capabilities and different applications, merits, and drawbacks. Here are key takeaways about the three crane body options.
Hydraulic Cranes
Hydraulic-powered cranes are the most popular body options. The efficiency is suitable for short-duty cycles, and hydraulics deliver enough lift and height to suit most applications. The crane and vehicle size should be compatible for optimum performance.
Electric Cranes
Electric cranes are mostly used for light-duty lifting and suit budget-conscious business operations. Electrically-powered lifts are cheaper to operate because they work when the truck is off and save fuel. Reduced engine running time also reduces wear and tear.
Articulating Cranes
Articulating crane bodies offer superior performance for heavy-duty applications and operate at lower heights. Thus, the cranes are ideal for applications with overhead barriers. The crane's dexterity also makes it easier to maneuver narrow passages.
Some applications overlap, so you can use different cranes to complete the same job. As such, you should work with an expert to determine the ideal fit.
Calculate the Capacity Rating
Capacity is a crucial consideration when you want to add a crane body to a truck. Measure the capacity beforehand in foot-to-pounds since each crane body comes with a foot-to-pound rating. Capacity calculations are simple and use two variables: weight and elevation.
To calculate the capacity needed, multiply the maximum weight the crane will carry by the elevation. For instance, if the crane will have a maximum weight of 2,000 pounds over a 10-foot elevation, the application requires 20,000 foot-pounds rated crane body.
Learn About Attachments and Chassis Requirements
Crane bodies require various attachments depending on the application. Some jobs require an additional bucket to lift workers, while others need a fork to hold and raise pallets. Crane body attachments will impact cost and efficiency, so you need to pay close attention to these.
You can easily determine the right chassis size based on the volume and shape of materials the crane will lift. Other considerations include the crane body material and properties. Some materials are corrosive, while others are abrasive.
Involve a Crane Expert
Experienced crane operators may have insights about the ideal body for the job. However, if you are in doubt, engage a competent crane body manufacturer or expert.
With the help of an expert, you'll choose the right size, load rating, attachments, and mechanics for the application. Ensure you engage a trustworthy operator or manufacturer with a clean track record and positive reviews from clients.
Diamond Truck Body Manufacturing is an experienced crane body manufacturer. We serve different industries and applications and provide a three-year guarantee.
Contact us today to find out more about how to build a custom truck crane body.
