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Magnet cranes

Magnet cranes

Magnet overhead cranes use magnetism to lift loads, either to increase productivity or safety, or to lift parts that have no anchoring points.

The magnet crane is a lifting device equipped with a magnet hoist or a standard hoist fitted with a magnet as an accessory. It can therefore be used exclusively for this application, or as a hybrid.

There are 2 main types of magnet: electromagnet or permanent magnet.

 

Rolling bridge-electromagnet-min-scaled

Overhead crane with
electromagnet

The electromagnet is a technology that magnetizes the magnet when electric current is supplied. Then, when the power is cut off, the magnet demagnetizes. Activation and deactivation of the magnetism is rapid, and its power can vary.

Advantages of the electromagnet :

  • Quick to magnetize and demagnetize (higher productivity)
  • Magnetic power dimming from 0% to 100% is quick and easy
  • Technology is easily accessible
  • Affordable
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1.

Self-supporting structure on concrete slab

Who?
Vector (11)
Description
Fixed to a concrete slab 1 with chemical adhesive and anchoring rods. This concept is also known as a self-supporting bridge crane.
Who?
Vector (11)
Description
Fixed to a concrete slab 1 with chemical adhesive and anchoring rods. This concept is also known as a self-supporting bridge crane.
Who?
Vector (11)
Description
Fixed to a concrete slab 1 with chemical adhesive and anchoring rods. This concept is also known as a self-supporting bridge crane.
Who?
Vector (11)
Description
Fixed to a concrete slab 1 with chemical adhesive and anchoring rods. This concept is also known as a self-supporting bridge crane.
Rolling-magnet-permanent-min-scaled-bridge

Permanent magnet overhead cranes

The permanent magnet is a different technology. Electrical energy is sent to the magnet for a few seconds to change its polarity. Once the magnet is magnetized, it no longer requires power to remain magnetized. Current must be sent to the magnet again to reverse its polarity and demagnetize it.

Advantages of permanent magnets :
  • Less energy-consuming (economical)
  • In the event of a power cut, the charge is maintained thanks to permanent magnetism. No battery system required.
  • Reduced maintenance, as fewer electrical components are required.

image (3)

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Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Etiam eu turpis molestie, dictum est a, mattis tellus. Sed dignissim, metus nec fringilla accumsan, risus sem sollicitudin lacus, ut interdum tellus elit sed risus. Maecenas eget condimentum velit, sit amet feugiat lectus.

1.

Self-supporting structure on concrete slab

Who?
Vector (11)
Description
Fixed to a concrete slab 1 with chemical adhesive and anchoring rods. This concept is also known as a self-supporting bridge crane.
Who?
Vector (11)
Description
Fixed to a concrete slab 1 with chemical adhesive and anchoring rods. This concept is also known as a self-supporting bridge crane.
Who?
Vector (11)
Description
Fixed to a concrete slab 1 with chemical adhesive and anchoring rods. This concept is also known as a self-supporting bridge crane.
Who?
Vector (11)
Description
Fixed to a concrete slab 1 with chemical adhesive and anchoring rods. This concept is also known as a self-supporting bridge crane.

Applications and technological solutions :

This type of equipment can be used for many applications and has several advantages:

  • For handling scrap metal without anchoring points,
  • For greater efficiency in high-volume production, by saving slinging time,
  • Greater safety, by avoiding human intervention during loading and unloading,
  • To save storage space, by eliminating the need for an employee to intervene during loading and unloading.

 

There are many possible solutions, all of which can be combined:

  • Intelligent load limiters
  • Magnet groups
  • Magnet power selection
  • Independent activation of magnet groups
  • Anti-sway systems (Accessories & safety/anti-sway)
  • Integrated crane remote control, including safety functions

Can my crane be equipped with a
magnet system?

Contrary to initial perceptions, it's not enough to buy a standard crane and magnets as accessories and then combine them. This type of equipment has its own mechanical and electrical design, and this must be taken into account when manufacturing it. This requires combined expertise in overhead cranes, magnet systems and integration. Consult your manufacturer to ensure that integration fully meets your needs.

 

Want to see a magnetic crane in action? Watch this video:

If you're thinking about integrating magnetism into your handling and lifting system, please fill in the form below to contact us! Our experience enables us to guide you in this particular field.

Frequently asked questions

01.
How to determine the frequency for frequent and periodic inspections?

The interval between each frequent and periodic inspection may vary depending on its duty class. To determine the frequency of these two types of inspections, you must identify the duty class of the lifting equipment (Class A to F) and refer to the CSA B167-16 standard (section 6.4.1 for frequent inspections and section 6.5.1.1 for periodic inspections).

Additionally, the inspection frequency should also take into account the actual duty class of the lifting device, which may differ from the class for which it was originally designed.

For more information on the topic, see our article: classifications

 

02.
Can the lifting capacity of an existing overhead crane be increased?

Yes, it’s sometimes possible, but it’s not guaranteed.

Increasing the capacity of an overhead crane involves more than just replacing the hoist. The entire system must be evaluated to ensure that every component can handle the increased load. Here are the main elements to check:

  • Is the main girder designed for the intended load?
  • Are the end trucks (wheels and gear motors) compatible with a higher capacity?
  • Can the runway, rails, and supporting structure withstand the additional stress?

In some cases, a well-planned modification can eliminate the need to purchase a new crane. In others, the costs or risks associated with the upgrade may be too high. An inspection can sometimes help determine whether an upgrade is feasible or if replacement is the better option.

Our recommendation: Before making any decisions, have your system (crane and runway) evaluated by a qualified engineer.

03.
Do you need an RBQ license to install an overhead crane in Quebec?
Generally, an RBQ license is not required to install an overhead crane in Quebec, as it is considered production machinery rather than a construction project. However, if the installation involves structural modifications, such as welding or reinforcing the building structure, an RBQ license may be required. For more details, you can read our full article here: Do you need an RBQ license to install an overhead crane in Quebec?
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Jean-Denis Perron
Groupe Picard