If the runway beam has a cap channel added for extra reinforcement, getting measurements for the width of the flange, toe, and thickness of the cap will also help the engineering team understand the crane’s design requirements. If you’re able to get up close to the beam, you can measure the flange width, as well as the flange thickness. If you can’t get to the beam, you can stand underneath it and use your laser pointer to get a measurement to the top flange, and then get a measurement to the bottom of the beam and subtract the difference. Getting measurements of the actual runway beam is as simple as running your tape measure from the bottom of the beam up to the top if you have easy access to the beam. If not, you can gather a lot of these measurements using your tape measure or your laser pointer. Ideally, you will have access to get closer to the runway beams using a lift or nearby mezzanine (if available). Measuring the runway beam height will ultimately give you a better understanding of the total height of your crane system. What You’ll Need to Measure for an Overhead Crane Installation The more information you can gather upfront, the more information the crane manufacturer will have to take back to their engineering team to put an accurate quote and project specification together.Īlso, the better you understand the design and specification requirements for your own crane system, the better equipped you’ll be to compare the different quotes you receive against the project criteria. Runway length and distance between runway supports.Or, it’s entirely possible that this is a brand new overhead crane installation in a new construction facility or existing building structure.Įither way, you should familiarize yourself with the following measurements prior to meeting with an overhead crane manufacturer: It’s possible you moved into a facility that previously had an overhead crane and the original support structure is still in place, and you’re adding a new crane, replacing an existing crane, or upgrading or modernizing a crane on an existing runway system. In some instances, you may have existing runways in your building. Having a clear understanding of the space available in your building, the existing building supports that the crane can be installed on, and any overhead obstructions, will help you lay out the design criteria and expectations for any crane manufacturer who bids on the project. Whether you’re thinking about adding a new overhead crane, or possibly replacing an existing crane in your production or manufacturing facility, it’s always a good idea to understand the basic design requirements and specifications of the project.