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.