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Industrial safety managers and technicians appreciate the importance of the mantra, "Know your load." Miscalculations in heavy-lifting projects can cause expensive and often times dangerous accidents. There are many ways to measure heavy loads, but dynamometers are popular because of their size, ease of use, and remote capabilities. This makes them useful in port areas, construction sites, and anywhere where overhead balancing and heavy lifting are part of standard operations. Here we will cover industries that benefit from load measurement devices and factors to consider when deciding what device is most effective for your application.
Industry Applications of the Dynamometer
Port Areas
The primary use for load indicators in port areas is in cargo handling equipment. This includes top handlers, side handlers, reach stackers, straddle carriers, gantry cranes, and forklifts. Dynamometers are typically used when the lifting is done via the use of a cable, as the device can measure tension. The most important thing in a shipping port is safety, and crews can monitor loads from a distance to ensure they remain safe during loading.
Construction Sites
The most common reason to use a digital load indicator on a construction site is to prevent unsafe crane operation. Dynamometers are often used instead of crane scales because they are lightweight and easy to use. They help crane operators to monitor speed and acceleration, especially during training. Dynamometers can also be used to measure and monitor loads during towing operations.
Overhead Balancing
Dynamometers for overhead balancing are most useful for dynamic loads that require constant monitoring to ensure the load does not shift beyond the capabilities of the machine. Hoists and cranes can adjust operations to ensure the load is transported safely.
Heavy Lift Projects and Load Indicators
Many heavy lift projects can benefit from a dynamometer as opposed to a standard scale because the device measures tension. This can be translated to weight but may be more useful when considering the durability of heavy lifting equipment. It is also beneficial to be able to measure "weight" from any angle using tension as opposed to gravity. The results offer information to heavy equipment operators that are more indicative than a stationary weight measurement, which is why dynamometers are so useful in crane operation.
3 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dynamometer
When choosing a dynamometer or other digital load indicator, it is important to consider factors including the device's maximum load capacity, accuracy level, and remote data reading capability.
1. Max Load Capacity
Dynamometers are available with max load capacities ranging from 1 ton to 200 tons or more. Selecting the proper one for your industrial needs is important to be able to use it in all necessary applications.
2. Accuracy Levels
How precise your measurement will be is of varying importance. Your digital load indicator will have varying degrees of accuracy based on the device's quality but also the size of the load being hauled. Choosing a device that has accurate measurement capabilities is crucial to best complete the task at hand.
3. Remote Data Reading
Finally, remote data reading capabilities make dynamometers safe for use in cable lifting where a snapped cable could prove dangerous for nearby operators. In heavy cargo lifting, operators are able to evaluate loads and ensure they are safely lifted onto transporters without ever having to put themselves in danger. The ability to avoid costly loading mistakes remotely is in-line with safety and business goals because workplace injuries are lessened, and loads are moved successfully.
How to Assess Which Load Measurement Solution Is Best
Crane scales and tension monitors provide similar load measurement solutions to dynamometers. It is important to consider all options before deciding which load measurement devices to use. The advantages of dynamometers are that they often cost less than other solutions while also offering real-time measurements and safe reading distances, and they are accurate with very little calibration or complicated setup. Additionally, they are portable, which makes them useful for industries with multiple sites, and they are easy to install between the attachment (i.e. lifting hook) and the material (i.e. cargo rigging).
Local Regulations and Load Indicators
Always remember to reference OSHA and CCOHS regulations and other local regulations that may be applicable to your specific dynamometer use. The person measuring may also need specific accreditation. It is important to follow all guidelines presented by regulating agencies in order to improve safety and avoid fines for unacceptable and unsafe working practices. Your load measurement devices and their use should always be OSHA- or CCOHS-compliant.
Which Dynamometer is Right for Your Application?
When you decide to purchase a dynamometer for your lifting equipment, it is important to consider how it will be used, the maximum loads that it will handle, the work environment, and possible load limits. For example, if there is an intermittent large load that is infrequent but substantial, this may be the most important time to have a dynamometer that can handle a higher load capacity. Additionally, how the lifting occurs is important in providing a safe environment for workers. When remote applications are available, they should be chosen for safety and increased efficiency.
With a dynamometer correctly chosen to meet the need of your application, loads will be delivered successfully and efficiently, which increases the safety of workers and the return on the equipment investment. When properly chosen, dynamometers prove to be an invaluable resource for multiple industries.
Load Measurement Devices from Professionals
When dealing with important tasks such as lifting and weighing, finding the best device is paramount. At Tractel, our equipment is developed to the highest standards and is backed by a team of experienced engineers, ensuring your facility is able to promote a safe lifting environment. Contact us today to talk to our expert team and get more information on choosing the right load indicator for your worksite.