Pre-Engineered Workstation Crane Systems
TC/American Crane’s enclosed-track Spanmaster has articulating and pivoting end trucks that provide a range of motion not possible with the rigid end trucks found on many workstation cranes.
Posted: August 28, 2020
Available in free-standing and ceiling-mounted designs, Spanmaster pre-engineered workstation cranes from TC/American Crane Co. (Elk River, MN) combine an ergonomic enclosed track bridge with a nonproprietary wide-flange or other runway systems and a unique range of motion features. When compared to competitive systems, Spanmaster offers longer standard bridge lengths and runway support centers. Standard bridge lengths can be up to 38 feet, 6 inches and standard runway support centers are cataloged up to 40 feet (longer support centers are available depending on the system requirements).
Spanmaster’s patented oscillating, articulating, and pivoting end truck design provides a freedom of movement not possible with rigid end trucks. This unique range of motion allows Spanmaster bridges to move freely along the length of the runway, no matter the position of the load on the bridge. The end trucks feature a ball pivot and U-hanger lower pivot that significantly reduces operator effort to move the load (as low as 100 to 1).
Unlike rigid end trucks, articulating end trucks don’t require a longer wheelbase with longer span cranes to resist binding. The largest Spanmaster end truck (4,400 lb. capacity) has an overall length of just 9.35 inches, which allows for best-in-class performance and end approach.
Spanmaster end trucks are available in several different models to fit the desired capacity and beam flange width. Designed to run on nonproprietary wide flange beams, they’re adjustable to accommodate various-sized runway flange widths. Steel or resin wheels with steel side guide rollers promote longevity and ease of use.
Capacities range from 250 pounds to 4,400 pounds. “Patented track” is the industry description for engineered, specialty beams and feature a specially rolled bottom tee section that provides a uniform lower flange regardless of beam depth and capacity.
