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.
