How Does It Feel To Be A Crane Operator

Truck cranes are very efficient lifting machines that are widely used, but they would not be as efficient as they are if not operated by qualified crane operators. Crane operators operate the truck cranes either from cabins or vie remote control, which is much safer method. They use few control mechanisms to raise and lower the boom of the truck cranes, can rotate the boom and the cabin, wind and unwind the winch or simply said, they have a full control over truck cranes.

Although there are many different types of cranes, most of the types are operated by foot pedals and joysticks.

Foot Pedals: 

The crane operators extend and retract the telescopic sections of the boom with the foot pedals. Also, the foot pedals control the amount of pressure that is generated by the pump.

Joysticks: 

In the operator's cabin, two joysticks can be found: one controls left-right movement of the boom and the other controls forward-backward movement of the boom.

Most truck cranes include hydraulically operated their controls for maneuvering, both foot pedals and joysticks. They use hydraulic hoses to connect to various hydraulic rams to spool valves. Spool valves are connected to a hydraulic pump via yet another hydraulic hose, which is located between the two other hoses. When the operator pushes the joystick in one direction, the valve shuts off one of the hydraulic hoses and another one is opened. The direction of the joystick determines which hydraulic ram should the piston slide in or out.

Before any lifting, the crane operators must enter the weight of the object to be lifted and the height to which it will be lifted into a specific crane software in the cabin of truck cranes. This software is included in most truck cranes and it uses a computer, which serves also as a back-up to the operators. For example, it warns the operators when the crane is overloaded. When the data is entered, the computer tracks the whole progress of the lift and ensures that it goes well.

Crane operators are responsible for all the parts of their truck cranes and their condition. They need to know that all cranes are in place before they start lifting. A quick inspection is also recommended. Also, the crane operators need to have signalman for every lifting operation. A signalman is a qualified person that gives voice and hand signals to the crane operators during the lifting to ensure that the load is handled safely and correctly.

Most Popular Construction Cranes

A construction crane is generally a lifting machine that works with a set of pulleys and cables. For the construction industry, the construction crane is a valuable asset because it is capable of lifting heavy weight loads and different kinds of materials. The modern day construction cranes are big in size, have different lifting capacities and can reach hundreds of meters in height. For example, for the construction of a skyscraper, usually a tower crane is used that can reach heights up to 800 meters. The construction crane uses pulleys and cable system for creating a mechanical advantage which is vital for lifting heavy loads and materials. The winders, ropes, cables, and the basic level pulley system are the main parts of any construction crane. There are different construction crane models on the market, and each one is used for a specific lifting task. The most popular construction cranes are the tower cranes, vehicle mounted cranes, rough terrain cranes, crawler cranes, aerial cranes and other crane types.

Tower crane

This construction crane is generally used for the construction of big-sized structures, such as skyscrapers, bridges, water dams etc. The tower crane was originally developed and designed in Europe, and today it is widely used all over the world. This construction crane can reach heights up to several hundred meters,

XCMG's All Terrain Crane QAY130

Founded in 1989, XCMG is a successful Chinese multinational manufacturer of heavy machinery. Currently, XCMG ranks 5th in the construction machinery industry in the whole world and 2nd among the top 100 enterprises in Chinese manufacturing industry. The company has a global marketing network that covers every corner on the Earth, so the XCMG products are exported to over 150 countries and regions around the world. One machine of its comprehensive product line that has gained the attention of many people involved in the construction industry is the XCMG's all terrain crane QAY130.

The all terrain crane is a mobile crane, able to travel at speed on public roads and rough surfaces at any job site, using crab and all-wheel steering. The all terrain crane QAY130 by XCMG is a perfect example of a great all terrain crane, a unique combination of road-ability and maneuverability.

What To Consider When Buying A Portable Cement Mixer

The portable cement mixer is a 20th century invention and today it is an essential part of producing concrete. Portable cement mixers make producing concrete very easy and as they can access on any site, they have become an obvious choice for most construction companies. There are many types of portable cement mixers, but they all have few specifications and features in common, such as drum, horsepower, capacity, towing and source of power. If you are planning to buy a portable cement mixer, here are some factors that can help you to choose a one easier.

Drum

The drum of a portable cement mixer is one of the most important consideration. If you need a portable cement mixer for small concrete operations, you do not need a mixer with big drum that would be difficult to operate it by yourself or transport it with vehicle. A portable cement mixer with a drum that can be operated by only one person and grant him ability to load and unload easily is surely the best choice for small concrete operations. Also, consider whether a plastic or steel drum. The steel is our recommendation, as it is much more durable and prone to breaking.

Cost

Cost is a major factor for many operators, as there is a huge difference between branded portable cement mixers and some ordinary red mixers. Indeed the branded portable cement mixers include some features and controls that the typical ones do not, but if you a portable cement mixer for home concrete jobs, an ordinary red portable mixer would also produce a quality concrete.

Source Of Power

Also another important factor you need to consider is the source of power: gas or electricity. Electric portable cement mixers are quiet and do not produce exhaust fumes, but they can be used if only there is an access to electric power. But if there is no outlet, a petrol or diesel portable cement mixer is the best choice, as they are extremely portable and can be used everywhere. However, if you do prefer an electric portable cement mixer, you can connect it to a generator and complete your tasks without setbacks.

Horsepower

The horsepower is a choice that depends on the operation. Each portable cement mixer has different amount of horsepower and depending on the operation, you need the choose a portable cement mixer with the right amount of horsepower for the operation. So, larger concrete operations require mixers with larger amount of horsepower in order to mix more concrete in shorter period of time and in more efficient way. For smaller home concrete operation, you do not need a portable cement with large amount of horsepower.

Electrical Power Equipmentel

Machines4u is a great webpage where you can find large selection of industrial electrical equipment for sale. This is one of the best marketplace in Australia and New Zeland.

In the construction equipment part, you can find large selection of electrical tools like electrical components, changeover switch, circuit breaker, contractor and many others.

On Machines4u website you can find new and used tools and equipment. Most of the products have few more pictures attached and info for products characteristics. 

Crane Lifting Attachments

See all the Crane Lifting Attachments on sale on Machines4u website.
Digital Load Indicator, 6 Tonne 2-3 Metre Adjustable Spreader Beam, snatch blocks, travelling crane, FJS2-5 Fixed Jib, Dowrie 5 Ton Gantry Crane and many other new and used, crane lifting attachments.

Kato Crane Truck

Kate Crane trucks are one of the most innovative cranes producers these days. They are producing mobile cranes and other industrial and construction tools and equipment. They are constantly meeting clients demands, what makes them one of the best Crane Trucks producers.
Here is a video of Kato Crane Truck in a working condition.
See what is the main reason that many people choose the Kato as Crane trucks producers.

if you are interested in buy crane truck from Kato or other brand, check all the available truck cranes in Australia selling on machines4u website.



Kato Crane Truck from machines4u on Vimeo.

How To Operate A Concrete Mixer Truck?

Concrete mixers have replaced the traditional method of hand mixing concrete. They are widely used, as they provide a quick and easy way of mixing cement, without the efforts of hand mixing. One common type of concrete mixer is the concrete mixer truck. It is a mixer that has only one use: to combine cement and aggregate, such as gravel or sand with water and forms concrete. To operate a concrete mixer truck you will need a CDL driver's license, a proper training on how to operate one and of course, a concrete mixer truck. Here are the instructions how to operate a concrete mixer truck.

1. Get into the cab of the large concrete mixer truck and start it. Press the buttons to start the mixing process. The concrete mixer trucks usually consist a drum that serves to mix the cement, which is rotated by a drive unit. At the top of the mixer, a loading chute can be found and all the ingredients are being added through it.
2. Once you pour concrete into the loading chute, pour a prescribed amount of water on the same method. The ingredients to be mixed get into the drum through the chute and are starting to mixing by a command of the truck-driver. There are long chutes that are used to change the angle, which depends on the position of the drum.
3. Get back in your large concrete mixer truck and give the command the drum to start rotating. The drum consists blades set at an angle to the axis, which is located at the center of the drum. The blades circle in a horizontal direction, while the whole drum is rotated by main engine, which is run by a hydraulic gear. As the drum rotates, the mixture inside the drum turns and rolls, making a mixture that will be soon used for a strong surface.

1. When the mixing process is done, drive to the destination where you will unload the large concrete mixer truck. Actually, the mixing process continues until the vehicle reaches the destination, and once it reaches, with the help of the paddles the mixtures comes in front of the drum and the concrete is ready to be extracted.
2. Place the large concrete mixer truck close to the site where the concrete will be poured. Be accurate when parking, to prevent unnecessary loss of concrete.
3. Finally, reverse the rotation of the drum and extract the cement through the drum. The mixture is being pushed by the angle of the blades. The mixture comes out of the drum and onto the chute, which can be pushed to the intended site and then poured.
   
   Watch online...

Road stabilisers selling in Australia

Road Stabiliser | Road Making Equipment-Stabiliser from Machines4u.com.au

This is a small info-gram made for the most used road stabilizer brands.
On machines4u website you can find any road making equipment you need. If you are into construction, then this is the best place for you, for finding any construction equipment you need.
The most used common brand for road stabilizer equipment is Bitelli. Right now on the Machines4u web page there are about 11 machines from this brand. From Mitshubushi, there are 7 people are selling road stabiliser machines.
On the info-gram, you can see how many machine are there from which brand selling on Machines4u.

What To Look For In Used Surveying Equipment - Part 2

Used Tellurometer

Unlike the geodimeter, the tellurometer uses radio waves for measuring distances. And because radio waves are used, this surveying device can be used either day or night. This device is easy for carrying on the site and can operate efficiently with batteries of 12 or 24 volts. Usually for a accurate measurement, the user of the tellurometer needs an assistant who is trained to operate the second unit that is place at the other end of the distance that need to be measured. When searching for a surveying equipment for sale, look for a used tellurometer that is durable and effective. Make sure that the exterior of the telurometer is undamaged and free of scratches. Again, any signs of exterior damages can indicate that the device has not been properly maintained by the previous owner. The batteries inside the device should be new.

Used GPS Equipment

The global positioning system, or shortly known as GPS, allows the users to measure distances and to gather information more accurately and in timely manner. The GPS device that is used by the surveyors around the world is actually a GPS receiver that picks up the signals from the satellites into the Earth's orbit. The GPS unit enables you to measure latitude, longitude, elevations and etc. Used GPS units may have week reception from the satellites. Their touchscreens might not work properly. You should always look for a second hand GPS device that has excellent touch sensitive screen without scratches and black dots. The GPS unit that you are planning to buy needs to be able to establish excellent communication with the satellite network.

Used Planimeter

Surveyors use the planimeter when they need to identify the area, whether it is neat rectangle, oddly shaped piece of terrain, or a hilly. Although old fashioned, the planimeter is still very useful and effective surveying instrument. The plainmeter that you are planning to buy needs to be in good condition. The arms of the planimeter should not be warped or bent in any way. You need to make sure that the scale and all other elements are in excellent working condition.

Other useful Surveying Equipment For Sale

The tape measure is another useful surveying tool . Look for tape measure that is not dirty or smudged.

As a buyer of second hand surveying equipment, you shouldn't be focused only on saving money. Take time to inspect closely the surveying equipment so that any visible damages can be identified. You need to be completely sure that you have found a set of surveying equipment that is working smoothly without any problems. For more information check online for available second hand surveying equipment for sale.

Continuing from part 1 "What To Look For In Used Surveying Equipment"

What To Look For In Used Surveying Equipment

Before starting a construction project, the building area needs to be surveyed in details by experienced and qualified land surveyors. Surveying is a tough job that requires a wide range of high quality surveying tools to be used, such as: levels, total stations, geodimeter, theodolite, recievers, planimeter, GPS equipment, and many other surveying tools. All these pieces of surveying equipment can be extremely expensive if are purchased all in once. If your financial budget is tight, it may be more reasonable to look for a used surveying equipment for sale. Today there is a broad range of available used surveying equipment from which you can choose, instead of buying brand new models which can be quite expensive. Even on the Internet, you can search, compare and buy the surveying equipment that you are looking for. Carefully maintained second hand surveying equipment can be as useful and effective as the brand new surveying equipment. But however you should pay attention when looking for a used surveying equipment for sale. What you need to look for is clearly good quality, functionality and durability. You should also be aware of certain features which are unique to a specific surveying tool. The following text will highlight briefly what to consider and what to look for when buying second hand surveying equipment.

Regular Maintenance Tips For Your Equipment

As many people know, extended life of loader attachment and loader parts reduces owning costs a lot, but still many deflect this fact. When you have a machine, you need to take care of it in order to serve you as you expect, otherwise, it will probably require many expensive repairs and have a shorten life. Regular maintenance of your equipment, attachments and parts is essential to achieving production goals. However, there are many professional services equipped with the newest product developments, detailed work procedures, trained staff and technical specifications. If you do not know how to attach loader attachments or replace specific loader parts, find a service in your city and let professionals to do it.

Everything You Should Know About Loaders

The loaders are heavily used in the construction industry, generally for moving heavy materials and loads from one location to another. These heavy construction machines are included in various projects like leveling and planning the ground site, road construction and infrastructure, digging holes, trenches and etc. The loaders are specially designed to be capable to move different kinds of materials like wooden chips, sand, debris, rocks, stones, concrete, recycled materials and many other types of heavy loads. The history of this construction machine can be traced back to 1920's when tractors equipped with buckets for material handling were firstly manufactured. In 1953, Caterpillar managed to develop a hydraulic loader, and after the WWII this hydraulic loader became fully commercialized machine. Since then, the loader is present at every construction site capable to perform and to complete different kinds of construction tasks. Today different loader models can be found on the market with different names like: wheel loader, crawler loader, track loaders, front end loader, backhoe loader and etc. The most commonly used are described bellow.