Whether you are a manufacturer, construction manager, or something else entirely, you may own an overhead crane that is used as part of your day-to-day operations. Equipment like this requires a significant investment. Cranes are used in a variety of industries, and they must be maintained in order to be productive and safe in the workplace.

While it would be great if equipment like this would last forever, the reality is that it just does not. Over time, with general wear and tear, they will wear out. Even with routine maintenance and repairs, your overhead crane will eventually need to be replaced. Otherwise, you will be paying more for maintenance and repairs and suffering in terms of productivity and efficiency. Here is how to know when it is time to purchase a new one.

Needing Multiple Repairs

If your crane has been needing more and more repairs as of late, especially for basic functions, which has been leading to an increase in downtime as your facility, then it is time to have the crane evaluated by a professional. More than likely, it is time to say goodbye to old faithful and get a new crane.

Expired Warranties

As a general rule, the parts on your crane will come with manufacturer warranties that cover very long periods of time. If those warranties have expired and you are now paying out-of-pocket for the repairs on these parts, then this is a sure-fire sign that your crane needs to be replaced.

Needing Rare, Expensive Parts

Over time, crane technology will improve, and as a result, older crane parts will become very difficult to locate. In some cases, manufacturers may decide that they no longer need to build the parts for certain cranes. If this has happened to you and your crane, then it may be time to upgrade to a newer model.

Inefficient Production Times

Modern overhead cranes have the technology to be more efficient. Because of these new innovations, production times in facilities are able to improve. If you notice that your production times are not as good as they could be and you can't find a solid explanation for it, the answer may be in your equipment.

Injuries Have Skyrocketed

You don't only need to look at production times and repair issues, as these aren't the only signs that your equipment is failing you and needs to be upgraded. You should also take a close look at the number of injuries that have occurred in the workplace, especially as it correlates to the crane's issues. Are your workers getting injured because the crane is breaking? If so, it is definitely time to consider a newer model.

For more information, contact a supplier of overhead cranes to find a new one.