When there is a need to move heavy loads throughout a facility or even in a specific production area or dock space, having the right type of system in place to be effective, efficient and safe is always a priority.
While a bridge crane may be required for heavy loads, for lighter loads of up to 10 tons it may be advantageous to use a hoist monorail system instead of a bridge crane. These systems can be used to save space, take advantage of the existing structure and to also create a path of movement that is specifically designed to the unique needs of the operation.
The Basics
The hoist monorail, as the name implies, runs on just one rail, not the standard two rails of the bridge crane. As there is just rail the system itself is lighter, which often makes it a better option for different buildings and facilities.
The monorail can be designed to mount directly to the existing beams in the building, which may be appropriate if there are no structural components also mounted to the ceiling. If this is the case, the monorail can actually be suspended from the beams using support hangers that are designed to secure and hold the weight of the system and the weight of the load.
It will be essential to calculate the weight bearing capacity of the existing structure before determining if a monorail is the right option for your lifting and moving needs.
Configurations
With the hoist monorail curves, ovals and unique configurations including serpentine shapes can be created in the track. In production, fabrication and manufacturing industries this ability to create curved tracks for moving loads of up to 10 tons is ideal and allows more efficient use of space than a hoist and crane system that can only be configured to run in a straight line.
As there is no need for additional columns for support with the overhead monorail systems, floor space and placement of equipment is also less restricted. This is a very big advantage in compact spaces where additional columns and braces at the ground level could potentially limit floor space and configuration options.
Monorail systems are less costly to design, build and install. They can be installed by in-house staff or through the company constructing the system. Different types of track, including track that can be used with transfer bridges and switches will also need to be carefully selected based on the specifics of use.
