MIL-HDBK-1038

Abstract

This handbook provides comprehensive descriptions of the predominant crane types in service at Navy shore facilities. It also outlines the design requirements and the pertinent engineering methodology for design evaluation of older and contemporary cranes. <br>It should be understood that numerous exceptions to the crane configurations, design features, and design criteria can be found in the Navy crane inventory - all with a record of successful performance - but they are beyond the scope of this handbook. Unless such exceptions are clear non-compliances with the requirements of this handbook or their performance becomes questionable, they should be left intact. <br>The terms "older cranes", "newer cranes", "standard commercial", and "custom design(ed)", and "built-up" are used throughout this handbook. Their definitions follow. <br>a) Older cranes, in the case of portal and floating cranes, are those designed and built prior to the early 1980's; newer cranes are those of the later period. Their prominent visual distinctions are illustrated in <a>figures 5</a>, <a>6</a>, <a>7</a>, and <a>8</a>. Container and mobile cranes are all in the newer crane category. The distinction among the other crane types is less identifiable, but the most visible features on older cranes are riveted structural connections, extensive use of open gearing, wide use of castings, and imprecise material identification. <br>b) Standard commercial or commercial assemblies and components are those items readily available off-the-shelf from manufacturers specializing in the design and production of such items. This definition encompasses mobile cranes, packaged hoists, underrunning hoist/trolley units, gear reducers, brakes, spreaders, hooks, wheels, etc. To be used on cranes, these items must comply with the applicable recognized industry standards. <br>c) Custom designed or built-up are terms applied to items of original or unique design, including entire cranes, assemblies, and components. <br>Older cranes, which do not comply with the design criteria presented in this handbook, may remain in service in their original configuration if they have a history of satisfactory performance. When assemblies or components of older cranes need to be repaired or replaced, they should be upgraded to the criteria of this handbook only where it is practical to do so. Navy Crane Center (NCC) controls this upgrading process through the review and approval/disapproval of Crane Alteration Requests, as mandated in NAVFAC P-307. <br>The applicability of Sections <a>4</a>, <a>5</a>, <a>6</a>, and <a>8</a> to purchased off-the-shelf items is limited to the optional features offered by the manufacturers of these items and easily implemented modifications. Such modifications are confined essentially to replacement of wire rope, hook block, or hook of packaged hoist or hoist/trolley unit.