Crane Modernisations & Structural Modifications
Is your overhead crane struggling to keep up with the demands of modern production? At Leading Cranes, we have the expertise to undertake crane modernisation and modification projects that will turn your old or inefficient crane into a high-efficiency machine. Rather than the huge outlay of capital that would be required to replace the crane, our engineering solutions enable you to modify your existing infrastructure to comply with current Australian Standards.
We offer our engineering services to the manufacturing, mining, and construction industries in Australia. Whether you need to upgrade the lifting capacity of your crane, extend its reach, or install the latest digital control systems, at Leading Cranes, we deliver precision-engineered results.
Why Modernise Your Crane System?
Modernisation is the way forward for companies seeking to optimize operational efficiencies to avoid unpredictable breakdowns in compliance with Australia Standards AS2550. With advancing technology and the implementation of stricter safety standards such as AS 1418 and AS 2550, Crane upgradation and modernisation is a cost-efficient solution.
Our modernisation services include:
- Cost Efficiency: Get the performance of a new crane at a fraction of the cost.
- Downtime Reduction: Upgrades can often be completed faster than a site shut-down and replacement.
- Safety Enhancement: Incorporate state-of-the-art safety features, collision avoidance, and operator control.
- Sustainability: Reuse the existing structural steel to reduce the environmental footprint of your facility upgrades.
Our Core Modernisation & Modification Services
1. Upgrades for Capacity & Duty Cycle
With growing production demands, Leading Cranes has the capabilities and competencies to upgrade Crane lifting capacities and duty cycle. At Leading Cranes, we perform comprehensive structural audits and analysis to assess whether your crane’s bridge, end carriages, and runway system can support an increased Safe Working Load (SWL). If so, we upgrade hoists and strengthen the structure to support heavier lifting.
2. Structural Alterations & Runway Extensions
Your facilities evolve, and your cranes should too. Leading Cranes offers professional structural alterations complaint to Australian Standards using our inhouse Engineering & Projects team to offer solutions including:
- Span Changes: Reducing or extending your crane bridge to suit new bay sizes in your building.
- Runway Extensions: Expanding your crane’s working area to cover new areas of your factory floor.
- Height Changes: Adjusting your gantry or support legs to accommodate new, taller equipment or larger workpieces.
3. Electrical & Control System Overhauls
The greatest improvement in crane functionality can be achieved in the “brain” of the system. We upgrade obsolete contactor-controlled systems with:
- Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs): Offering “stepless” acceleration and deceleration, eliminating load swing and reducing the mechanical load on the gearbox.
- Radio Remote Controls: Keeping the operator out of the “drop zone” and improving visibility during complex lifts.
- PLC Integration: For automated positioning and data logging for maintenance purposes.
4. Hoist & Component Replacement
We replace obsolete, unreliable hoists with new, high-efficiency hoists. By upgrading your hoist, you can enjoy faster lifting speeds, improved braking systems, and more reliable wire rope or chain performance.
With a huge range of products.
Leading Crane Services will have all your lifting needs covered.
The Leading Cranes Engineering Process
Each crane modification project that we undertake involves a comprehensive engineering process making sure we understand customer requirements in line with compliance of Australian Standards and safety guidelines
- Site Audit & Inspection: We evaluate the existing mechanical and structural condition of your equipment.
- Feasibility Study: Our engineers evaluate the proposed modification to ensure that it is safe and economical.
- Design & Engineering: We develop approved engineering designs and calculations that meet all applicable Australian Standards.
- Fabrication & Installation: Our experienced technicians undertake the modification work, which can be done during a scheduled shutdown to avoid disrupting your operations.
- Commissioning & Proof Testing: Each crane that we modify is also subjected to a full load test and safety certification prior to returning it to your operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I determine if my crane is suitable for modernisation?
If your crane needs constant repairs, is outdated regarding safety systems, or is no longer capable of supporting your current production capacity. Typically, if the primary steel framework is sound, modernisation is a viable option.
Will a modification improve my crane’s compliance?
Yes, it will. All modifications to the structural or mechanical integrity of your crane, undertaken by Leading Cranes, involve a complete update of the crane’s certification and data plate to bring it up to current AS 2550.1 standards.
Can you modify cranes from any manufacturer?
Yes, we can. We have many years of experience with a variety of brands, both domestic and international, including Konecranes, Demag, STAHL, JDN and many others.
Partner with Australia’s Crane Experts
At Leading Cranes, we take pride in our ability to provide innovative engineering solutions for even the most difficult lifting problems. Our staff is dedicated to helping you get every last bit of value from your equipment while protecting your employees.