Questions You Should Know about Custom Hoist Cylinders

Selecting the right hydraulic cylinder involves a thoughtful process to ensure it meets your specific needs. First and foremost, consider the load requirements. You’ll want to determine the maximum force the cylinder will need to exert, factoring in any potential variations or unexpected spikes. Next, assess the operating environment. Take note of factors like temperature, humidity, and potential exposure to corrosive substances, as these can impact the material and coating choices for the cylinder. Additionally, consider the stroke length, which is the distance the cylinder can extend and retract; it should comfortably accommodate the range of motion required for your application. Think about the mounting options available and how they align with your equipment. Finally, consult the manufacturer’s specifications and recommendations to ensure compatibility with your system and to guarantee a reliable and efficient performance.

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Yes, they can be cushioned. A hydraulic cushion is a feature in some hydraulic cylinders that helps to reduce the impact and shock caused by the cylinder’s motion. As the name states, It’s basically like a cushion for the cylinder, absorbing the energy created by the moving piston and slowing down its motion before it reaches the end of its stroke.

Hydraulic cushions are often used in applications where a heavy load is being lifted or moved, as they can help protect the load and the hydraulic system from damage. By providing a more controlled and gradual stop to the cylinder’s motion, hydraulic cushions can help to increase the safety and efficiency of hydraulic systems.

To calculate the force generated by a hydraulic cylinder, you need to know the cylinder bore diameter, the operating pressure, and the piston rod diameter. The formula for calculating hydraulic cylinder force is:

Force (in pounds) = (Pressure (in psi) x Cylinder bore area (in square inches)) – (Pressure (in psi) x Piston rod area (in square inches))

By knowing the force generated by the hydraulic cylinder, you can select the appropriate size and capacity for your application.

Learn more about hydraulic power from the Encyclopedia Britannica.

Step 1: Gather Tools and Safety Gear Before you start, ensure you have the necessary tools and safety gear. You’ll likely need wrenches, a rubber mallet, safety glasses, and gloves.

Step 2: Depressurize the System Safety first! Release the hydraulic pressure by disconnecting any power sources and operating the cylinder to release any remaining pressure. This prevents unexpected movements during disassembly.

Step 3: Locate the Retaining Bolts Identify the bolts that hold the end cap in place. They’re typically positioned around the circumference of the end cap.

Step 4: Loosen the Bolts Using the appropriate wrench, carefully loosen the retaining bolts. Start by loosening them evenly to avoid putting stress on one side of the end cap.

Step 5: Tap the End Cap Gently tap the end cap with a rubber mallet. This helps break any seal that might have formed due to pressure and fluid.

Step 6: Remove the Bolts and End Cap Fully remove the retaining bolts and gently slide the end cap away from the cylinder body. Be prepared for a slight release of hydraulic fluid as you do this.

Step 7: Inspect and Clean With the end cap removed, inspect the interior for any signs of damage or wear. Clean the sealing surfaces and ensure no debris could affect reassembly.

Step 8: Replace or Maintain Depending on the reason for removal, this is the time to either replace a damaged part or perform any necessary maintenance.

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Step 9: Reassembly When you’re ready to put everything back together, reverse the steps. Carefully position the end cap back onto the cylinder body, making sure the seal is properly aligned. Reattach and tighten the retaining bolts evenly.

Step 10: Test and Check for Leaks After reassembly, re-pressurize the system and test the cylinder’s operation. Keep an eye out for any hydraulic fluid leaks around the end cap area.

Remember, safety is paramount. If you’re unsure at any point or encounter difficulties, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional or refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines. With patience and attention to detail, you can successfully remove a hydraulic cylinder end cap and carry out necessary repairs or maintenance.

During the hundreds of classes, Columbus McKinnon’s training team has conducted over the years, there are a variety of questions that arise regarding the use, maintenance and inspection of overhead cranes and hoists. So, I wanted to take this opportunity to outline seven of the most common concerns, myths, and misconceptions we’ve received from crane and hoist operators and technicians during our classes.

Q1)Do monorails need to be labeled with their rated load?

Answer: According to ASME B30.11, rated load markings are not required on monorails but are recommended. Before marking the monorail, a qualified person must determine the rated load on the monorail beam. Once the monorail is marked, the rating should be legible from the ground floor. ASME’s recommendation also applies to marking the rated loads of hoists on the monorail. For more information on hoist marking guidelines, see ASME B30.16.

Q2) Can rated loads for hoists and trolleys be different from the crane’s rated load?

Answer: The short answer to your question is “yes.” However, ASME B30.16 stipulates that when a system is comprised of components with different rated capacities, the rated load of the “system” shall be based on the lowest-rated individual component.

System is defined as the combination of Monorail, Hoist and Trolley in the case of a Monorail and Crane; Hoist and Trolley in the case of an Underhung Crane.

ASME B30.16-1.3.2 states that the supporting structure, including trolleys, monorail, or crane, shall be designed to withstand the loads and forces imposed by the hoist for the rated load.

Important note: As of , ASME B30.11 Monorails & Underhung Cranes and ASME B30.17 were consolidated. This was done to better harmonize the standards, as many people have noticed in the past that B30.11 and B30.17 had similar wording and, in some instances, were exactly the same. This can cause confusion when referencing and interpreting the standards. Therefore, the ASME committees for both standards came to a consensus and created only one standard that refers to Cranes & Monorails (With Underhung Trolley or Bridge). This standard is ASME B30.17. You can see a cover page of the standard here

Q3) Are yearly load tests required on a hoist and crane?

Answer: There is no specific time period during which load tests must be performed once the initial installation is inspected and load tested. Some states require operators to load test hoists and cranes every four years, but, in most cases, if the hoist is not altered, repaired or modified, it can remain in service indefinitely without a load test being required.

Q4) Are monthly records of inspection required for hoists, wire rope, chain and hooks?

Answer: This depends on the type of crane. OSHA regulation .179 applies to top-running overhead and gantry cranes with top-running trolley hoists. For these types of cranes, monthly inspections of the hoist’s chain, wire rope and hooks are required with a recorded certification. This certification record must include the signature of the person who performed the inspection and the identifier of the chain, wire and hook that was inspected. If a hoist and trolley are underhung, frequent inspections are required, but written documentation is not.

Q5) Do you have to be certified to inspect and repair hoists and cranes?

Answer: According to ASME standards, you must be a “qualified person” to inspect and repair cranes and hoists. A “qualified person” is a person who, by possession of a recognized degree or certificate of professional standing, or who, by extensive knowledge, training and experience, has successfully demonstrated the ability to solve or resolve problems relating to the subject matter and work. These individuals do not have to be professional engineers.

Q6) Do you need to disassemble hoists for yearly inspections?

Answer: Hoist disassembly is not always required for yearly inspections. What is found during the inspection typically determines how far you need to break down the hoist. Be sure to reference the manufacturer’s OEM manual when disassembling any hoist.

Q7) Do chain slings require latches on hooks?

Answer: According to OSHA .184 and ASME B30.9, slings do not require latches on the hooks, unlike hoist and crane hooks where latches are required unless they constitute a hazard.

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