The mining environment is complex, and everyone involved in a mining task needs to take extra precautions. To ease the job, many project managers opt for mine crane services. Only renting a crane isn’t enough, especially when you are concerned about everyone’s safety, smooth project completion, and the top functioning of the rented equipment. Operating cranes in demanding mining conditions can present significant challenges.
A reliable crane rental company generally follows a rigorous maintenance routine to ensure their equipment solutions are always in top working condition. Today, we will share the top maintenance tips that both rental companies and project managers should follow to ensure the safe and peak performance of cranes in demanding mining conditions.
How Can You Keep Rented Cranes Safe & Functional in Challenging Mining Environments?
Mining environments are generally challenging and different from construction or other heavy-lifting requirements. There are some safety measures that both rental companies and project managers should take to ensure smooth project completion and the safety of all workers.
1. Conduct Regular Inspections
Routine examinations serve as the foundation for crane upkeep. In mining landscapes, where equipment is exposed to rigorous elements, these inspections hold even greater significance. Inspectors must thoroughly assess any indications of erosion or decay, hydraulic leakage, insecure fastenings, or dysfunctional segments. It is imperative that these inspections strictly adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines and are carried out by certified personnel to ensure the safety and efficacy of the crane.
2. Implement Preventive Maintenance
Scheduled maintenance is carried out to avoid malfunctions and make the crane last longer. It involves oiling parts that move, examining the hydraulic system, looking at electrical parts, and changing pieces that are old or used up. By staying proactive, mining companies can minimise downtime and avoid costly repairs.
3. Train Operators Properly
Operators play a vital role in the safe and efficient operation of cranes. Proper training ensures that operators understand the capabilities and limitations of the machinery. They should be trained to identify signs of mechanical issues, operate the crane within specified parameters, and comply with safety regulations. Investing in operator training not only improves productivity but also reduces the risk of accidents and minimises equipment damage.
4. Monitor Environmental Conditions
Mining areas are notorious for tough circumstances, like very high or low temperatures, lots of dust and water, and materials that can cause rust. Cranes used in these places often wear out faster and can get damaged by corrosion. It is very important to keep checking the conditions of the environment often and do what is needed to safeguard the crane. This could involve applying protective layers, making sure electrical parts are sealed, and putting in place ways to control dust.
5. Keep Detailed Maintenance Records
It is important to maintain detailed documentation to accurately track the crane’s history and identify recurring issues. This documentation should include inspection reports, service schedules, repair logs, and a comprehensive record of component replacements. Analysing these records can provide valuable insights into the crane’s performance, maintenance requirements, and areas for improvement.
Following these five tips can help you keep the rented crane functional and safe at the mining site. However, upkeep or regular maintenance of cranes comes with a significant cost, and that may increase your project expenses. However, the good thing is that reliable companies that offer rental services like shutdown crane services in Perth take care of the maintenance part on their own.
Conclusion
The upkeep of cranes is a costly affair and comes with a lot of responsibilities. For a mining project manager or company, it is hectic to take care of all aspects and complete the task within the deadline. And that’s why it’s always better to hire crane rental services from a reliable provider.
When it comes to hiring top-quality mine crane services for heavy-lifting projects at a reasonable rate, many connect with ABC Crane Hire. It is a reliable company with a large fleet of advanced cranes and relevant equipment that can satisfy all your lifting and heavy haulage requirements. So, if you are looking for crane rental services without the hassle of regular maintenance and inspection, ABC Crane Hire can be the best destination for you.
