Crane Assembly, Disassembly, and Transport
What this domain tests
This domain tests whether you can follow manufacturer's assembly and disassembly procedures, plan lifts for boom and counterweight components, and prepare a crane for legal transport. The exam covers pins and keepers, torque, assist-crane capacity, centre of gravity, blocking, tie-down, and transport permits.
Core rules and concepts
- Use the manufacturer's assembly/disassembly procedure and checklist. Do not improvise pin locations, boom configuration, or counterweight sequence.
- Inspect components before assembly: pins, keepers, cotter pins, bushings, boom sections, jib, and counterweight. Replace missing or damaged keepers.
- Plan each component lift as a separate lift: weight, centre of gravity, pick points, sling angle, radius, and assist-crane capacity.
- The assist crane's chart capacity must exceed the component weight plus rigging and any dynamic allowance at the required radius.
- Control crush zones and blocking. Never place hands or feet under a suspended component.
- For transport, know overall dimensions, axle loads, boom and jib stowage, counterweight removal, tie-down points, and permit requirements.
- Reassemble and inspect before operation; verify safety devices and calibration after major assembly.
Worked example
A lattice boom section weighs 2,800 kg and must be lifted at a 9 m radius. The assist crane's chart gives 3,500 kg. Deductions are 400 kg for the hook block and slings, leaving 3,100 kg net. The lift is within capacity, but the rigging plan must also verify the section's centre of gravity, pick points, and sling angle. If the section is long or flexible, a spreader beam may be required to prevent damage.
Traps that cost marks
- Using the crane's own chart when it is partially assembled or not rated for the assist lift.
- Ignoring the component's centre of gravity and picking at the wrong point.
- Missing pins, keepers, or cotter pins after assembly.
- Forgetting transport permits, axle loads, or over-dimensional restrictions.
- Assuming assembly is complete without a post-assembly inspection and safety-device check.