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How to Prevent Damage to Cranes in High Winds: Preparing for Storm Eowyn and Beyond

Engineering

How to Prevent Damage to Cranes in High Winds: Preparing for Storm Eowyn and Beyond

Cranes are critical assets in construction and industrial operations, but they can be particularly vulnerable to high winds and severe storms, such as Storm Eowyn. Preventing damage to cranes during extreme weather is crucial to ensure the safety of workers, minimise downtime, and avoid costly repairs. Here’s a guide to protecting your cranes and how Heyn Engineering can support you in the aftermath.

Preparation Tips for High Winds and Storms

Lower the Boom and Secure the Crane Whenever possible, lower the boom to a safe position and secure the crane against wind movement. Tower cranes should be set to "weathervane mode," allowing them to rotate freely with the wind and reduce stress on the structure.
Remove Loose Materials Clear all loose materials, tools, and debris from the site. These items can become dangerous projectiles in high winds and may strike the crane, causing damage.
Follow Manufacturer Wind Limits Always adhere to the manufacturer's wind speed guidelines for your specific crane model. If winds exceed the crane's operational limits, suspend all lifting activities immediately.
Inspect Before the Storm Conduct a thorough inspection of the crane before the storm hits. Check for signs of wear, loose bolts, or other vulnerabilities that could be exacerbated by strong winds.
Secure Chains, Ropes, and Lifting Gear Ensure all chains, ropes, and lifting equipment are properly stored or secured. Prolonged exposure to high winds can cause wear and weaken their integrity.
Monitor Weather Updates Stay informed of the latest weather forecasts and storm warnings. Advance notice gives you time to prepare adequately.

Post-Storm Inspections and Repairs with Heyn Engineering

After the storm has passed, it’s essential to assess the condition of your crane and lifting equipment to ensure everything is safe and operational. This is where Heyn Engineering can help.

Damage Assessment and Repairs Our expert team specialises in crane repairs and can evaluate any damage caused by storms like Eowyn. From structural issues to damaged components, we’ll ensure your crane is restored to full functionality.
Spare Parts and Components Storms can cause wear and tear or completely damage parts. Heyn Engineering has an extensive network to source all the parts and spares you need quickly and efficiently.
Load Testing High winds can put significant strain on chains, ropes, and other lifting equipment. We offer comprehensive load testing to ensure all components are safe to use and meet regulatory standards.
Replacement of Chains and Ropes If any chains, ropes, or lifting gear have been damaged, our team can provide expert advice and replacements to guarantee your equipment is ready for use.

Be Prepared for Every Storm

By taking proactive measures to secure your cranes and lifting equipment before storms and working with trusted experts like Heyn Engineering after severe weather, you can minimise downtime and ensure the safety of your operations. Don’t let Storm Eowyn or any future storms catch you off guard—prepare now and rely on Heyn Engineering for expert repairs and testing when you need them most.

Contact Heyn Engineering today to learn more about our crane repair services, parts sourcing, and load testing solutions.

Engineering

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