How do you connect an overhead crane to the building ?

By Marc-André Martineau
Director & Partner at Premium Industrial Group

Have you ever had to connect an overhead crane without having all the necessary technical data at hand ? 

And when the information finally arrives, is it complete, clear, and delivered at the right time to avoid delays or mistakes ? 

If you recognize yourself in these situations : this guide is for you !  

It has been designed to simplify your work and eliminate guesswork when powering up an overhead crane.

Here you will find : 

• The four essential checks to perform before starting
• Where to connect the conductor bars to the disconnect switch 

The four technical checks for connecting an overhead crane

Here are the four essential technical elements to check before you begin. 

1 - Power / amperage 

The determine the power and amperage, you will need the following information :

• Motor specifications (power, amperage) 

• Number of motors present 

• Other accessories present, such as lights, or the presence of a joystick, etc. 

This will allow you to determine the type and size of the disconnect switch based on the Canadian electrical code. If you wish, we can provide you with an estimate for the disconnect. Click on the "Contact a Specialist" button to request one.

2 – Type of power supply available

In most industrial buildings, the power supply system is 600 V three-phase. You will need to check that the overhead crane is compatible with the type of power supply available.. 

3 – Distance between conductor bars and electrical panel

To determine the voltage drop that could result. 

4 – Confirm the presence of a grounding conductor

The grounding conductor has been a requirement since the 2004 update to the CEC. For more details, see the article on this topic here : Why and when should I add a grounding conductor to my overhead crane?

All this information should be provided to you by the customer. However, if it’s missing, do not hesitate to contact the manufacturer to obtain it.

Now let's see where to make the connection.

Here is where to connect an overhead crane according to the recommendations 

Confirm the location of the power feed point

The connection to the conductor bars is made at the power feed points, also known as "power feeds".  

Generally, two connection locations are possible, depending on the building configuration and the manufacturer's recommendations : 

1. 1. At the end of the conductor bars : the most common and simplest configuration.
   

   At the end : Example of a connection at the end of the conductor bars

2. 2. In a joint : sometimes preferable for balancing tension over long distances.
   

   In a joint : Example of a connection in the center of the bar system

Please note that more than one power feed point may be required for certain installations.

The following table summarizes the roles and responsibilities of each party. 

Master electrician or manufacturer : Who does what in the installation ? 

Key points for a smooth connection  

It can be frustrating when you don't have the information you need for your work at the right time. 

Now you know that you need to obtain the manufacturer's technical documentation and carry out these essential checks before starting your next project :

• Power/amperage 
• Type of power supply available 
• Distance between conductor bars and electrical panel 
• Presence of a grounding conductor 
• Confirm the location of the power feed 

Now you can focus on the steps that really matter to get your work done efficiently, without interruption.

Need help validating your power supply installation or getting specifications quickly ?

Our specialists can assist you with essential technical data and even help you estimate the size of the disconnect switch.

At Premium Industrial Group, we don't just deliver equipment: we also support field professionals like you in the final critical stages, right up to the final power-up !