Why You Should Rent an Industrial Crane With a Variable Frequency Drive

You should consider asking for an industrial crane with variable frequency drives (VFD) in case you need to rent an industrial crane for an extended duration. This article discusses why a VFD would be a good feature to have in a crane.

Better Load Control

Variable frequency drives help to control the motor operating a crane. The VFD enables the crane operator to adjust the speed of the hoist during the different stages of lifting loads instead of lifting at the same speed throughout the different lift stages. This flexibility makes it possible for more precision to be achieved during the lowering of a load. Such precision reduces the likelihood that accidents may result in situations where a load isn't lowered to the exact desired position.

Increased Hoist Life

You may have signed a contract in which you committed to footing the cost of any major repairs that may be needed while you are using the industrial crane. Such repairs may include the cost of replacing a worn hoist component, such as the load chain. Such components may wear out quickly if you are unable to be alerted to overheating conditions as the crane is being used. A variable frequency drive may save you from such costly repairs. This is because the drive can be equipped with overload or overheating sensors that warn the operator to stop the hoist until better operating conditions are attained. Such warnings prevent the hoist from wearing out due to prolonged exposure to work conditions that exceed its specifications, such as excessive heat.

Reduction of Operator Involvement

VFDs reduce how fatigued an operator may be by the time his or her shift is ending. This is because the VFD can be programmed to adjust the speed of the hoist automatically during certain phases of the lifting operation. For instance, the VFD can be programmed to increase the speed of lifting a load gradually until the load reaches the desired height. Such a command can save the operator from being fatigued by adjusting the speed himself or herself throughout the day. Consequently, there will be a reduced chance of crane accidents resulting from operator error due to fatigue.

Discuss a variable frequency drive when looking into industrial crane hire at a heavy equipment hire facility. That feature will enable you to get maximum value from the crane once it is set up in your industrial complex.