BEFORE YOU REPLACE: MODERNISE, MAINTAIN OR RETROFIT 36 July 2017 P O W E R S Y S T E M S There are a number of valid reasons to consider replacing an overhead crane. Your application or production demands may have changed, statutory requirements may have changed or critical components are reaching the end of their economic service life. Replacing a crane with something new may seem like the obvious option, but there are actually three viable alternatives that will cost-effectively upgrade an existing crane and extend its service life: modernisation, tailored maintenance and retrofits. Before committing to one of these options, it is advisable to consult with professionals who can assess the current situation and make appropriate recommendations. MODERNISATIONS Modernisations preserve aspects of the existing asset that are in good condition (saving capital funds) and complement those aspects with the addition of selected new replacement components that enhance reliability and safety, adding current technologies. Common modernisations include the replacement of hoists, trolleys, operator cabs and controls to achieve increased capacity, speed, duty and load control. Before determining what modernisations are needed on a crane, it is highly recommended that the crane undergo a thorough evaluation such as Konecranes’ Crane Reliability Study (CRS). In some cases, a major assessment will need to be undertaken, such as cases where it is a very old crane and there is no record of one being done recently. The major assessment is one way of ensuring the crane is standards compliant. The CRS is an engineering assessment that evaluates the current condition of a crane and provides a theoretical estimate of its remaining design life and provides recommendations for the next steps. Any of the structure or components excluded from the modernisation scope will still be assessed in compliance with standards, which provides a complete and compliant solution upon completion. Konecranes modernisations achieve outstanding EN083
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