🔹 Ship Crane Familiarization Guide
1. Types of Ship Cranes
Deck Cranes: Installed on deck, used for loading/unloading cargo.
Provision Cranes: Small cranes for lifting food, supplies, spare parts.
Engine Room Cranes: Small overhead cranes inside engine room for maintenance work.
Grab Cranes: Used mainly on bulk carriers for loose cargo like coal or grain.
2. Main Parts of a Ship Crane
Boom (Jib): Long arm of the crane.
Winch: Motor that winds and unwinds wire rope.
Hook/Grab: For lifting cargo.
Wire Ropes: Strong cables for lifting loads.
Slewing Unit: Allows the crane to rotate.
Hydraulic System: Powers movements (lifting, lowering, slewing, luffing).
Control Station: Where operator controls the crane (manual, remote, or automatic).
3. Basic Crane Operations
Hoisting: Raising the load.
Lowering: Bringing the load down.
Luffing: Raising or lowering the boom.
Slewing: Rotating the crane around its base.
4. Safety During Crane Operation
Always check the Safe Working Load (SWL) before lifting.
Do pre-operation checks (brakes, wires, hydraulics, controls).
Use proper hand signals or radio communication between operator and deck crew.
Never overload the crane.
Keep clear of suspended loads.
Watch for swinging loads during slewing.
5. Pre-Operation Checklist
✅ Check oil levels (hydraulic oil).
✅ Check winches, ropes, brakes, and hooks for damage.
✅ Check control levers and limit switches.
✅ Check anti-two block devices (to prevent over-hoisting).
✅ Check emergency stops and alarms.
6. During Operation Tips
Move loads slowly and steadily.
Always face the load during lifting.
Do not allow unauthorized persons in crane operation area.
If visibility is poor (rain, fog), suspend crane operations.
7. After Operation
Park crane in safe position.
Release wire rope tension.
Turn off hydraulic pumps and motors.
Inspect crane for any damages after use.
Record any defects or unusual performance in crane logbook.
🔹 Important Points
Follow maker’s manual (Hagglunds, MacGregor, TTS, Liebherr, etc.).
Always check Load Moment Indicator (LMI) if fitted.
Training + Practice = Safe and Skilled Operation!
🔹 Simple Summary
🛠️⚓
A safe crane = safe crew, safe ship, and successful cargo operations!