Why are counterweights important for mobile cranes?
A mobile crane is a vehicle-mounted crane that is designed to lift and maneuver heavy loads in a variety of different industries and applications. There are mobile cranes for any weight that is more than what can be safely lifted or moved by a human. Counterweights are the weights either built into the body of a crane or applied additionally, that stop the crane from falling over when it is lifting an item.
Why are counterweights important?
Counterweights are extremely important when it comes to the engineering of a mobile crane or the planning of a lift. They are integral to ensuring that the crane remains stable and does not topple over during a lifting operation. Without the counterweights on a crane, it wouldn’t be able to lift it’s capacity.
What can happen if a counterweight is not used correctly?
In short if a counterweight is not used correctly, a crane can fall over either during the lift or as it lets go of its cargo. During a lift, if the counterweight is insufficient to balance the load that the crane is lifting, the crane can topple forward in the direction of the boom.
If the counterweight is too heavy for the weight of the boom, the crane is travelling up an incline or outriggers are not extended, the crane can topple backwards. If the ground conditions are uneven and you have not set the crane up with appropriate counterweights, the crane can also topple backwards.
Counterweight design is not just about the weight; the size and shape of the weight are also important. Engineers design mobile crane counterweights for the specific type of crane it is being used with to prevent crane accidents.
What are crane counterweights made of?
Our counterweights are made of cast iron, the safest material for counterweight design. Cast iron counterweights are small, but because of their density, they provide enough weight to balance out even the most massive loads. Our counterweights are inspected regularly to ensure their structural integrity and durability.
Mobile Crane Safety
Preventing Mobile Crane accidents is of utmost importance to us at Lindores Mobile Cranes. Miscalculation of loads and the need for counterweights is the most common reason for crane accidents. Our team is meticulous when it comes to load planning and site inspection - and we do this to avoid accidents. We use our experience, combined with mathematical calculations and crane manufacturer guidelines to ensure that the counterweights applied are appropriate for each load that our cranes lift.
All of our cranes come with crane load charts which we use to plan our lift plans in each and every lift that our cranes do. Crane load charts provide the information needed to ensure that the right counterweights are applied, the boom angle is appropriate, and the vehicle is configured for maximum safety.
What cranes use counterweights?
All cranes have counterweights including mini cranes, they are actually built into the crane. Mini cranes and city cranes do not tend to need or warrant the use of extra counterweights. A Franna Crane Superlifter carries a counterweight with it at all times on the front of the crane and then uses extra counterweights to classify as a superlifter, lifting up to 28 tonnes. Mobile slew cranes use counterweights as a standard practice, all lifts are different so therefore the calculations of the amount of counterweight needed is all different.
Lift Planning
We also make sure that our clients use the right crane in the right situation. Sometimes a two crane lift will provide better stabilisation and safety than a larger crane with counterweights. Our experience and diversity in our fleet means that we can make these decisions with confidence, giving you the safest lift possible.
The team at Lindores Mobile Cranes are the experts when it comes to planning your next project. We work with cranes, plan lifts and inspect locations daily, and our company has been doing this for forty years. When you work with Lindores, you are working with the experts. Get in touch with our friendly team to plan your next lift.
The Liftout
At Lindores Mobile Cranes , we understand that the key to safe and efficient crane operations is regular preventive maintenance. By staying proactive, we minimise downtime, prevent costly repairs, and ensure our fleet remains in peak condition. Keeping our equipment in top-notch shape allows us to deliver the best possible service to you! Why is Preventive Maintenance Essential? Our cranes handle heavy loads daily and operate in demanding environments, which makes regular maintenance a top priority. Through routine inspections and servicing, we identify potential issues before they escalate, ensuring compliance with industry safety standards and extending the lifespan of our equipment. How Do We Maintain Our Cranes? Thorough Inspections We conduct daily and weekly checks on hydraulic systems, cables, brakes, and structural components to catch early signs of wear and tear. Lubrication and Fluid Monitoring Keeping our cranes properly lubricated and maintaining hydraulic and engine fluid levels helps us prevent mechanical failures. Routine Load Testing We regularly test our cranes to ensure they can safely handle the specified loads without risk of malfunction. Ongoing Operator Training Our experienced operators are trained to spot potential mechanical issues early, allowing us to address them before they cause disruptions. What are the Long-Term Benefits for Our Clients? ● Enhanced Safety – Our commitment to maintenance reduces the risk of accidents, protecting both our team and our clients. ● Operational Reliability – Well-maintained cranes mean fewer delays and smoother project execution. ● Cost-Effectivenes s – By preventing major breakdowns, we save on expensive emergency repairs and ensure competitive pricing for our services. Our Promise to You.. At Lindores Mobile Crane s, we take pride in maintaining a fleet that meets the highest standards of safety and efficiency. Our preventive maintenance program is more than just routine checks—it’s a commitment to delivering reliable, high-quality service every time you work with us. Why Choose Lindores Mobile Cranes ? When you partner with us, you’re choosing a team that values personalised service, unwavering dedication to safety, and a strong connection to the local community. As a family-owned business, we bring a level of care and expertise that sets us apart. Experience the difference our commitment makes— contact us today at lmcops@lmcranes.com.a u to learn more about our crane services.
At Lindores Mobile Cranes , cranes are in our DNA. We are a family-owned and operated company, dedicated to bringing you the best service. Our tight-knit team of skilled crane drivers, riggers and operations crew are passionate about delivering a personable experience that’s a cut above the rest. When selecting a crane service provider, opting for a family-owned and operated business like Lindores Mobile Cranes offers distinct advantages that can significantly enhance your project's success. In this blog, we outline some of the key benefits of working with a family-run company. Personalised Service Family-owned businesses often provide a level of personalised attention that larger corporations may lack. At Lindores Mobile Cranes , we take the time to understand each client's unique needs, ensuring tailored solutions that align with specific project requirements. Commitment to Quality and Safety With a family name associated with the business, there's an inherent commitment to maintaining high standards. We prioritise safety and quality in all operations, adhering to strict industry protocols to protect both our clients and team. Flexibility and Responsiveness Family-run operations can adapt quickly to changing project dynamics. Our team at Lindores Mobile Cranes is empowered to make swift decisions, allowing us to respond effectively to unforeseen challenges and keep your project on track. Deep Community Roots Being a family business, we have deep ties to the South East Queensland community. This local presence fosters trust and reliability, as we are invested in the success and development of our area. Long-Term Relationships We value building lasting relationships with our clients. Our family-oriented approach means we strive for repeat business and referrals, motivating us to exceed expectations consistently. Choosing Lindores Mobile Cranes means partnering with a team that offers personalised service, unwavering commitment to quality and safety, and a deep understanding of the local community. Experience the difference that a dedicated family-owned business can bring to your project. Enquire about our cranes today by contacting lmcops@lmcranes.com.au.
Operating mobile cranes is a critical part of many construction and industrial projects, but it comes with significant risks. Mistakes in crane operation can lead to project delays, equipment damage, or even serious injuries. At Lindores Mobile Cranes , safety and efficiency are at the core of what we do. Below, we’ll explore some of the most common mistakes in mobile crane operation and share how our team actively mitigates risks and prioritises safety on every lift. 1. Improper Site Inspection The Risk: Failure to assess the job site properly can result in uneven ground, insufficient clearance, or interference with nearby structures or power lines, all of which increase the risk of accidents. Our Solution: Lindores Mobile Cranes conducts thorough site inspections before every project. Our experienced team assesses the terrain, identifies potential hazards, and ensures the site meets all safety requirements. This proactive approach minimizes risks and ensures smooth operations from the outset. 2. Exceeding Load Capacities The Risk: Overloading a crane beyond its capacity can compromise stability, leading to equipment failure or tipping accidents. Our Solution: Our team rigorously calculates load weights and matches them with the crane’s capacity. We use advanced load-monitoring systems to double-check weight distributions in real-time. Additionally, our operators are fully trained to understand and adhere to each crane’s load chart. If necessary, we use multiple cranes to lift objects, ensuring sufficient lifting capacity and safe weight distribution. 3. Neglecting Proper Equipment Maintenance The Risk: Poorly maintained cranes are more prone to mechanical failures, which can cause downtime or dangerous malfunctions during operation. Our Solution: At Lindores Mobile Cranes , regular maintenance is non-negotiable. Our cranes undergo routine inspections and servicing by qualified technicians. We maintain detailed maintenance records and replace any worn parts before they become a problem, ensuring our equipment is always in peak condition. 4. Inadequate Operator Training The Risk: Untrained or under-qualified operators may misinterpret signals, improperly maneuver loads, or fail to respond correctly in high-pressure situations. Our Solution: We only employ certified and highly experienced operators. New employees receive consistent and thorough training and mentorship from senior members of our team, to ensure they uphold our high standard of service and operation. Additionally, our team is continuously trained and updated on the latest industry standards and safety protocols. 5. Ignoring Weather Conditions The Risk: Operating a crane in high winds, heavy rain, extreme temperatures or low-visibility heightens the risk of accidents, equipment damage and load instability. Our Solution: Weather conditions are always factored into our planning process. If conditions are deemed unsafe, we communicate transparently with our clients to reschedule operations. Our priority is always safety. 6. Failure to Use Proper Rigging The Risk: Improper rigging or using damaged lifting equipment can result in dropped loads, endangering workers and equipment. Our Solution: Our team is trained to select and inspect the right slings, shackles, and hardware for each lift. We follow strict rigging protocols to ensure every load is secure and balanced before lifting begins. 7. Poor Communication on Site The Risk: Miscommunication among team members can lead to errors in load handling, positioning, or crane operation, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Our Solution: We prioritise clear and consistent communication on all our job sites. Our operators, riggers, and ground crews use standardized hand signals and two-way radios to stay in constant contact, ensuring everyone is on the same page. Why Choose Lindores Mobile Cranes? At Lindores Mobile Cranes , we don’t just operate cranes – we deliver peace of mind. By prioritizing safety, meticulous planning, and industry-leading expertise, we ensure every lift is executed flawlessly. When you partner with us, you’re choosing a team committed to excellence, precision, and the highest safety standards. Ready to make your next project safer and more efficient? Contact Lindores Mobile Cranes today and experience the difference. For all enquiries, please contact lmcops@lmcranes.com.au.