Selection criteria for marine cranes

The selection of marine cranes requires comprehensive consideration of ship characteristics, operational needs, and regulatory standards to ensure safety, efficiency, and economy. The following are key principles:

1.Load Capacity and Operating Parameter Matching:Core parameters include rated lifting capacity, lifting height, and working range. Rated lifting capacity must be calculated based on the maximum weight of the cargo, taking into account dynamic coefficients and the weight of the lifting equipment. The lifting height should cover the height difference between loading and unloading cargo and installation allowance (e.g., a lifting allowance of 3-5 meters). The working range must ensure that the crane covers the entire operating area, and the span design must match the width of the slipway or work site.

2.Ship and Environmental Adaptability:The ship's size, structural strength, and operating environment must be assessed. The crane must be compatible with the ship's structure; larger ships require larger-sized equipment. Environmental factors such as wind, waves, humidity, and temperature affect equipment selection; for example, harsh sea conditions require windproof and waterproof designs, and high-temperature environments require heat-resistant materials. The frequency of use must also be considered; high-durability models should be selected for high-frequency operations.

3.Safety and Compliance: Marine cranes must comply with regulatory requirements, with a focus on inspecting metal structure corrosion, cable wear, hydraulic systems, and limit switches; operational safety requires multiple protection systems to prevent overloading, and regular maintenance to reduce risks.

4.Performance and Reliability: Key factors include power system efficiency, structural stability, and operational flexibility. The power system must be stable and efficient, and the structural design should balance stability with ease of operation. Regarding the selection of marine crane types, boom systems are low-cost but lack flexibility, while marine cranes (deck cranes) offer precise operation but are complex to maintain; a trade-off must be made based on the type of cargo and frequency of operation.

5.Economy and Maintenance: The entire life cycle cost must be assessed, including purchase, installation, maintenance, and energy consumption. Durable equipment with low maintenance costs can reduce long-term operating expenses; environmental performance, such as energy-saving and emission-reducing designs, helps reduce environmental impact and comply with regulations; cost-effective solutions must balance initial investment with long-term benefits, such as selecting standardized components to simplify maintenance.