Materials in Motion

Category: Material Handling Resources

Crane Operation and Wireless Controls

Wireless remote radio control is an emerging option for crane operation that comes with several benefits over traditional crane controls. These benefits include safer operations, better maneuverability, and improved working times. Before the rise of radio controls, cranes have typically been operated with one of two kinds of controls: bridge-mounted cab controls or wired pendant... Read Full Article
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Workstation Jibs vs. Standard Jibs

We recently published a blog post outlining the differences between trussed enclosed track, trussed plain track, and I-beams. As of late, we've received a lot of inquiries about the differences between each type of track, along with how those track types impact the construction and use of certain overhead cranes. Although most manufacturers use enclosed... Read Full Article
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Materials in Motion Top Ten

Since 1979, Spanco has been a leading manufacturer of overhead workstation, jib, and gantry cranes. In that time, we’ve accumulated a wealth of knowledge largely driven by questions and comments from our customers and the unique material handling challenges our cranes help them overcome. Over the past five years, we’ve enjoyed discussing and sharing our... Read Full Article
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Reducing Workplace Musculoskeletal Disorders in Manufacturing and Material Handling

There are a lot of unusual workplace hazards in manufacturing, many of which can lead to workplace injuries. With so many potentially catastrophic injuries on their radar, many companies overlook work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD). But, according to the SHARP research group, work-related musculoskeletal disorder claims (mostly due to overexertion and repetitive motion) accounted for 21... Read Full Article
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Keeping it Grounded: Is Your Crane Safe?

Did you know that you’re required to have a fourth ground bar on your overhead crane system? It’s been nearly 12 years since the National Electric Code (NEC) changed its requirements for overhead cranes. The newest requirement, added in 2005, mandates that all overhead cranes must have a grounded power bar or festooning. The Bureau... Read Full Article
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Gantry Cranes: Versatility in Maintenance and Repair Operations

Gantry cranes are often used for applications requiring versatility in daily operations. They’re designed to provide multi-purpose lift and transfer capabilities for heavy loads in a variety of applications. Considering maintenance and repair operations can occur on site or from one location to another, flexibility is a crucial crane factor. Gantry cranes are (generally) designed... Read Full Article
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Overhead Crane Safety and Cost Reduction

Worker safety is—arguably—the most important reason we encourage companies to purchase and install the correct overhead lift solution for their specific application. Protecting your employees is essential to the success of your operation, and safety rules are regulated by OSHA 1910.179. Overhead lift systems reduce lift accidents, improve workplace health and safety, reduce product damage,... Read Full Article
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Easy Overhead Crane Modernization

When purchasing a large system like an overhead crane, facility managers and factory owners generally expect to see long-term service life and a huge return on investment. Many overhead cranes and lift systems are in service for decades. While the aging process and consistently changing compliance standards can present challenges, there are ways to modernize... Read Full Article
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