Material Handling Resources Archives

Sep292017

What’s the Benefit of Having Bi-Coastal Production Facilities?

The old adage that “Two are better than one” is one of those phrases that’s worked its way into everything from business dialogue (Two heads are better than one!) to pop music. And while its origin traces all the way back to the Bible, the phrase “Two are better than one” could just as easily... Read Full Article

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Jul022017

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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Jun222017

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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Apr262017

Improve Efficiency and Your Bottom Line with a Fully-Customized Overhead Lift Solution

If you’re looking around your facility and realizing you need a viable material handling solution, look no further. Some companies know exactly what they need, while others may require a little direction. Either way, there are hundreds of solutions available, many of which can be tailored to meet the needs of your application. Material handling... Read Full Article

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Mar012017

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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Jan042017

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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Nov032016

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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Oct262016

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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Oct192016

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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Oct122016

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT JIB CRANE FOR YOUR APPLICATION

Jib cranes are an economical solution for moving materials within individual work areas or from one work area to another. They can also serve as auxiliary lifting devices under overhead cranes. There are a variety of jib cranes on the market today, with styles ranging from entirely self-supporting to ceiling/bridge or wall-mounted. When selecting a... Read Full Article

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