Overhead crane installation in Quebec | Groupe Industriel Premium

Q: How do you install an overhead crane ?

A : Installing an overhead crane starts with thorough preparation. A site visit will help evaluate how the crane will be brought into the building. Depending on the site configuration, several options are possible: using an existing access, creating a temporary opening in the roof, or even dismantling a section of the wall. Next, the right equipment must be selected for mounting the crane on the rails. The crane is mounted on the runways, usually with the help of a forklift, crane, or tri-lifter. Installing an overhead crane often requires a temporary halt in activities, especially during the mounting on the rails. Good planning in advance helps optimize this downtime and avoid unexpected issues that could affect production.

Q: When is it best to install an overhead crane in a new building?

A : On most construction sites, it is recommended to proceed with the installation of the overhead crane once the building is enclosed, the floor is completed, and electricity is available. This allows the installation to be done in a single mobilization, which is more efficient and reduces costs. However, it is necessary to ensure that a clear area on the floor is available to allow for the safe maneuvering of the overhead crane during installation.

Q: Do you need an RBQ license to install an overhead crane in Quebec?

A : 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?

Overhead crane installation: how can you prepare for this key step?

Installing your overhead crane is an important step that can seem like a mountain to climb. You may be wondering what this stage will be like. Will your production be affected? Will the lifting equipment be delivered on time?

Whether you're at the start of a project or just about to place your order, this page will walk you through everything you need to know to ensure an efficient, compliant installation, with no nasty surprises.

Proper installation planning for the success of this critical stage

Installation is not just a formality in a lifting equipment project. It guarantees performance, productivity and safety, while ensuring compliance with industry standards. But for it to be a success, effective planning and excellent communication are essential. Your supplier must be a company you can trust, as this phase will involve coordination with your production team and multiple checks to ensure that the desired deadlines are met.

How much does an overhead crane installation cost?

The cost of crane installation depends on a number of factors, such as region, space requirements, type of crane, structure required, and so on.

To get an idea of installation costs, please refer to the page "How much does an overhead crane cost?" . The right-hand column of the tables will give you information on common installation prices.

The 3 most common methods for mounting an overhead crane on its runway rails

Once the overhead crane has been delivered to the site and the structure is ready to receive it, the time comes to erect it on the runway rails. The crane is mounted on the rails using lifting equipment selected according to the weight of the unit, the height to be reached and the available space. Three methods come up most often.

1. The forklift

This is the most common method when the floor space is clear and the lifting height allows it. The forklift lifts the overhead crane in one piece or in sections. A rotating table fitted on the forks lets the load be turned for a safe maneuver. It is a fast and economical solution, well suited to light- to medium-capacity overhead cranes.

2. The crane

A crane, often a mobile crane, is used when the overhead crane is too heavy for a forklift or when the height of the rails exceeds the forklift's reach. Depending on the building's configuration, the lift can be done from inside or through a temporary opening made in the roof or wall.

3. The tri-lifter

The tri-lifter, a compact hydraulic lifting system, comes into play when space is tight, when overhead clearance is limited or when no crane can be positioned inside the building. Designed for heavy loads, it lifts the overhead crane from the ground, directly to the desired location.

The choice of method is determined during the site visit, based on the constraints specific to your site. That said, mounting the crane on the rails is only one step among others. To see the complete process, from contract signing to commissioning, read the article “ The 8 steps of an overhead crane installation ”.

Avoid unpleasant surprises during installation

Various problems can arise during installation. Caution is advised, as unforeseen events can increase the bill and push back the commissioning date. Poor planning can also lead to negative consequences, such as incomplete or non-compliant installation.

Knowing the common pitfalls when installing lifting equipment can limit the possibility of unpleasant surprises. Consult the article "The top 8 most common installation problems" to be well prepared. If the project involves a new building, the article "Overhead crane project in a new building: avoid the pitfall with 5 checks"will be very useful.

Ready to get started on your overhead crane project?

Successful installation is a very important step in your project. But before you get there, you need to evaluate your project and select the right lifting equipment. Ready to start your crane project?

If you'd like to find out more about Premium and how we carry out installations to the highest standards, visit our "About" page.

If you've reached the stage of choosing the right overhead crane for your needs, see "Need an overhead crane: where to start?" or contact us by filling out the form ''Contact a specialist''.

Frequently asked questions

01.

How do you install an overhead crane ?

A : Installing an overhead crane starts with thorough preparation. A site visit will help evaluate how the crane will be brought into the building. Depending on the site configuration, several options are possible: using an existing access, creating a temporary opening in the roof, or even dismantling a section of the wall. Next, the right equipment must be selected for mounting the crane on the rails. The crane is mounted on the runways, usually with the help of a forklift, crane, or tri-lifter. Installing an overhead crane often requires a temporary halt in activities, especially during the mounting on the rails. Good planning in advance helps optimize this downtime and avoid unexpected issues that could affect production.

02.

When is it best to install an overhead crane in a new building?

A : On most construction sites, it is recommended to proceed with the installation of the overhead crane once the building is enclosed, the floor is completed, and electricity is available. This allows the installation to be done in a single mobilization, which is more efficient and reduces costs. However, it is necessary to ensure that a clear area on the floor is available to allow for the safe maneuvering of the overhead crane during installation.

03.

Do you need an RBQ license to install an overhead crane in Quebec?

A : 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 modifi cations, 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?

04.

How is an overhead crane transported to the job site?

The overhead crane is transported to the job site on a suitable flatbed truck or trailer, with or without a road escort depending on the equipment dimensions. The load is secured safely to prevent any swaying during transport. It may be shipped fully assembled or in separate components if the equipment exceeds the dimensions permitted on the road. A protective tarp is then added when weather conditions are unfavorable. Upon arrival at the job site, the overhead crane is unloaded using a forklift or a crane, then assembled before being put into service.

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