Application description
Following on from our 3rd application example, where we considered the operational monitoring of mobile cranes, we focus this time on monitoring wind speeds for accurate, safe and compliant use of static cranes. Whilst Watchlog Pro will monitor all crane data, such as the current load, boom position, operating hours, oil pressure etc, using individual sensors or through CANBus, we focus here on wind monitoring using a wind sensor, such as the FT742-DM Acoustic Resonance Wind Sensor from FT Technologies.
Load Lifting Safety - Wind exerts lateral and dynamic forces on both the crane's jib (boom) and the suspended load. Even moderate gusts can cause the load to swing or spin, making it hard to control and increasing the risk of collisions with structures, equipment, or personnel.
Structural Limits of the Crane - Every crane has manufacturer-specified wind speed limits, depending on boom configuration and load. Exceeding these limits can overload structural members or the slewing mechanism, potentially leading to mechanical failure or overturning.
Preventing Tip-Over - When wind pushes against the boom, it increases the overturning moment at the crane's base. If the wind moment plus the load moment exceed the counterweight and ballast capacity, the crane can tip. Real-time wind monitoring helps operators avoid conditions where the safety margin is eroded.
Load Control and Precision - In precision lifts (eg. setting steel beams or glass panels), even small wind-induced oscillations can derail alignment. Knowing the exact wind speed lets operators decide whether it's safe to proceed or if the lift should be postponed until calmer conditions.
Regulatory Compliance and Documentation - Occupational safety regulations (such as those from OSHA in the U.S. or the Health and Safety Executive in the U.K.) require adherence to wind-speed guidelines. Many sites mandate logging wind readings before, and sometimes during critical lifts to show due diligence in risk assessment.
Operational Efficiency and Planning - By monitoring wind trends throughout the day, project managers can schedule outdoor lifts during forecasted low-wind windows, minimizing downtime and avoiding costly last-minute halts.
In short, continuous wind-speed monitoring is a cornerstone of safe, compliant, and efficient crane operation, protecting both people and assets, increasing efficiency and increasing the longetity of your cranes.
