scope:

Introduction

The operating speeds of overhead travelling cranes are usually selected on the basis of the experiences of manufacturers and users. In most cases, the speeds of existing cranes or the objective of increasing the throughput of unit loads or bulk material are the decisive factors.

When specifying operating speeds, DIN 15 022 "Cranes, lifting heights, operating speeds" have to be observed.

Only for some plants, the crane distances travelled have to be prespecified to sufficient precision, e.g. for the handling of bulk material between vessel and hopper. For this purpose, a mean operating cycle can be defined, and the effect of different operating speeds on the throughput of bulk material can be calculated.

For overhead travelling cranes of workshops and loading cranes, it is difficult to present an applicable mean operating cycle. In most cases, speeds as high as possible are selected to manage the handling tasks to be expected, whereas important parameters of influence are often ignored.

This guideline explains the basic terms and states the parameters of influence which have to be considered when selecting the operating speeds. Positioning accuracy, average distance, acceleration, load suspension devices, and similar items are factors of decisive influence. This recommendation is intended to facilitate the selection of the proper operating speeds.

This guideline applies analogously to gantry cranes.