A wide variety of cables are used in modern crane systems. The load due to constant movement is the same for all trolley and crane supply cables.
Mobile energy, control and data supply to equipment requires a very complex system. For the overall system to perform its function, the individual system components must be harmonised.
For crane main power and data supply a motor cable drum or – for short travels – a spring tension drum is usually used. Busbar systems for the main power supply are also very common in indoor cranes. As an alternative to the two solutions, an energy chain can be used, which can offer various advantages.
In the case of indoor cranes, the main power supply is usually provided via busbar systems and data transmission via wireless data systems. A drum solution (motor-driven or spring balancer) is generally used for large or harbour crane systems. Information about the drum solution can be found in the article with the title: Harbour / Large Crane Main Power and Data Supply.
The advantages of roller chains over conventional cable garland/cable trolley systems are obvious. Let’s take a closer look at the design features of both solutions – in use in harbour crane systems.