Crane Limit Switches
Often, static, tower, gantry, and overhead cranes are used for heavy, repetitive lifting in outdoor or dirty environments where conditions are harsh for operators and equipment. Limit switches play many roles in the operation of cranes, including being a critical safety measure.
How Limit Switches Are Used in Cranes and Hoists
Heavy-duty limit switches can indicate when issues arise, such as a rope coming lose from the groove or when two trolleys are operating on the same bridge. A limit switch can also prevent an overhead crane from lifting loads that are heavier than the rated capacity.
There are types of limit switches that help prevent the hoist from overtravel and some that help protect the crane motor from overheating. It is common to have more than one limit switch on single crane operation. While one switch can indicate that the crane is close to reaching the safe travel limit, another switch can indicate when the safe travel limit is reached and stops the crane from further movement. Heavy-duty limit switches are essential components to providing a safe environment in crane applications.