Industry News

Crane Working Class

2023-05-18 17:34:54

What Is Crane Working Class?

Crane working class refers to the classification criteria for the working capacity and range of use of cranes. They are classified according to factors such as the greatest load the crane can carry, the working environment and the conditions of use. Crane working classes are designed to ensure the safety and reliability of cranes under specific working conditions.

Chinese crane working classification system(GB3811-83), which categorizes cranes based on their duty cycle and load capacity. The Chinese classification system includes classes ranging from A1 to A8, with each class representing a specific range of usage and load capacity. Here's a breakdown of the A1 to A8 working classes within this system:

A1~A2: Light Use

These cranes are used for maintenance, repair, and handling occasional loads.Light usage with less frequent load handling.
Infrequent operation with light loads.Examples include workshops and assembly lines.

A3~A4: Medium Use

Moderate usage with regular load handling.
Suitable for general material handling applications.

A5~A6: Heavy Use

Heavy-duty usage in industrial environments.Continuous operation with high load handling demands.
Frequent load handling with varying loads.Often used in steel mills, foundries, and heavy manufacturing.

A7: Very Heavy Use

Intense operation with high load handling demands.
Found in heavy steel industries, shipyards, and other demanding environments.

A8: Severe Use

Continuous operation with extreme load handling demands.
Often used in specialized heavy industries.

It's important to note that the Chinese crane classification is just one of several systems used to classify cranes. Different regions and organizations might use slightly different classification criteria. The classification helps determine which type of crane is suitable for specific tasks and working environments based on factors such as load capacity, duty cycle, and operational requirements.


Working class for the four main types of cranes:

overhead crane: A3~A7
gantry crane: A3~A7
jib crane: A1~A3
electric hoist: M1~M6

How Does the Crane Working Class Affect the Crane Price?

The crane working class directly affects the price of a crane.

  1. Lifting Capacity: Cranes with higher working classes generally have greater lifting capacities. They are designed to handle heavier loads, which makes them suitable for more complex and demanding projects. The increased lifting capacity requires stronger structural components, more powerful engines, and advanced hydraulic systems, all of which contribute to higher manufacturing and maintenance costs. As a result, cranes with higher working classes tend to be more expensive to purchase and rent.
  2. Advanced Features: Cranes with higher working classes often come equipped with advanced features and technologies that enhance their performance. These features might include telescopic booms, multiple jibs, precise load control systems, and automation. These added features require additional engineering, design, and manufacturing efforts, which contribute to the overall cost of the crane.
  3. Specialization: Certain crane working classes are designed for specific tasks or industries, such as the construction of high-rise buildings, heavy industrial projects, or precise lifting operations. These specialized cranes are engineered to meet the unique demands of these tasks, which often involve complex engineering and customization. The specialized nature of these cranes can lead to higher costs.
  4. Maintenance and Safety: Cranes with higher working classes usually require more rigorous maintenance and adherence to stricter safety regulations due to their increased capabilities and potential risks. Ensuring the safety and reliability of these cranes involves additional costs related to maintenance, inspections, and compliance with safety standards.
  5. Manufacturing and Engineering Costs: Designing and manufacturing cranes with higher working classes involves more complex engineering, specialized components, and materials that can withstand heavier loads. These factors contribute to increased manufacturing costs, which are ultimately reflected in the price of the crane.

In summary, the crane working class directly affects the price of a crane due to the increased complexity, capabilities, and features associated with higher working classes. Clients looking to rent or purchase cranes should carefully assess their project requirements, taking into consideration the lifting capacity, features, and specialization of the crane, while also being prepared for the associated costs.

How to Determine the Right Crane Working Class?

Determining the right crane working class involves considering several factors related to the intended use of the crane, load requirements, operating conditions, and frequency of use. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you determine the appropriate crane working class for your specific needs:

  1. Identify the Application: Define the primary tasks the crane will be used for. Different applications require different load capacities and duty cycles.
  2. Determine Load Requirements: Calculate the maximum load the crane will need to lift. Consider both the average load and any occasional or exceptional loads.
  3. Estimate Duty Cycle: Determine how frequently the crane will be in operation. Is it for occasional use, frequent use, or continuous operation?
  4. Evaluate Environmental Factors: Consider the environmental conditions in which the crane will operate. This includes factors like wind speed, temperature, and exposure to corrosive substances.
  5. Consider Operational Conditions: Think about the specifics of the work environment. Will the crane need to work indoors or outdoors? Will it be used on a stable surface or on rough terrain?

Remember that the crane working class you choose should align with your specific operational needs while prioritizing safety. If you're unsure, contact us can help you to make an informed decision.

Crane work ratings are critical to ensuring safety in the workplace. Proper grade selection ensures that the crane operates within its normal operating range and avoids the risk of overload and failure. Incorrect grade selection can lead to crane damage, work accidents, or personal injury or death. Thus, proper understanding and compliance with the crane working class is an important part of ensuring workplace safety.

Why Custom a Crane Solution?

At Yuantai, we know that there is no "one size fits all" in the lifting field. Universal cranes are suitable for general factories, warehouses, etc. Besides, different applications have different needs for cranes. For example, steel industries often lift steel plates, so need electromagnetic cranes. Ports and docks often need to load ore, gravel, and other bulk goods, so need to grab bucket cranes. Chemical dangerous places often need to carry flammable and explosive materials, so need explosion proof cranes.

So, we provide customized cranes according to the special needs of our customers. Custom crane solutions offer many benefits in a variety of applications:

  • Improve efficiency: Cranes can use automatic controls, and special accessories to improve efficiency.
  • Break space constraints: In limited spaces, standard cranes may not fit due to their size. Custom cranes can be designed as compact or lightweight cranes.
  • Cost savings: Customized cranes can lead to long-term cost savings. Customized crane solutions ensure crane's performance is all necessary for your business.

Get Your Free Quote

I'm happy to help you with a crane solution and pricing. Please provide me with the following crane specifications:

  1. What type of overhead cranes do you need? (i.e., overhead crane, gantry crane, etc.)
  2. What lifting capacity do you need for your overhead crane?
  3. What span of crane do you need? 
  4. What lifting height of overhead cranes do you need? 
  5. What material will the crane lift? (i.e., steel, concrete, etc.)
  6. Will the crane be used indoors or outdoors?
  7. Any special requirements for the crane? (i.e., explosion-proof, etc.)

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If you have any crane needs, please contact us online or email us at cherry@ytcrane.com. WhatsApp/WeChat:+86 15093126500 . Our crane engineers will give you a suitable crane solution and a specific crane price within 24 hours.

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