Crane Wire Rope Hoist Maintenance Tips

A wire rope hoist is nothing but a flexible rope comprising of several individual steel wires. They are all clubbed together and twisted to the center to form strands. These strands twisted together around the core forms a rope. Not every wire rope hoist has the same specification but has the same application.

A wire rope hoist is a component that undergoes severe wear and tear over a period of time. The more they are used, the more their condition deteriorates and the less efficient they become. However, regular wire rope inspection can help detect the deterioration and post maintenance corrections can increase their useful life and productivity.

Essential Wire Rope Hoists Inspection Tips:

Wire rope hoists play a critical role in crane functioning and operations. Regular inspection and maintenance of wire rope pays huge dividends in improving safety and productivity of the equipment and shop floor. But before we get into the maintenance tips, let’s explore the ways one can perform the inspection of the wire rope. A proper inspection requires the right tools and criteria for evaluating the condition of the wire rope.

• To begin with clean the wire rope for any dust and rust such that any cracks, cuts, and tear is clearly visible.
• Take a soft cloth or any fabric and move it over the wire rope as if to clean the surface. If the cloth gets stuck in between any broken area you will be able to find the damaged part.
• Measure the diameter of the wire rope and compare it with original, standard wire rope, if you find a difference, it concludes that the wire has undergone some internal or external damage.
• You can also check the interiors of wire rope for corrosion and abrasions by using a spike and moving it between the two strands of wire and opening them up.

Essential Wire Rope Hoists Maintenance Tips:

• Conduct frequent and regular inspections of the wire rope essentially at the start of every shift or operation.
• Sometimes the rope gets damaged inside the hoist drum and sheaves. Inspecting them on regular intervals prevents you from using a damaged wire rope and avoids a costly mishap.
• Inspect the entire length of the wire rope until the point where the load is attached.
• If you notice any broken wires, remove the wire rope hoist immediately.
• The diameter of the wire rope gets diminished over a period of time with regular use. Depending upon the application, the reduction may happen sooner.
• Other critical factors to look for are corrosion, rope deformation, and loose loops.
• Always check for the cause of wear and tear post discarding of the damaged wire rope.