Radio Operation for a Casting and Scrap Crane

Challenge
Additional radio communication for linked crane systems during ongoing production at .

For ArcelorMittal, a coupled casting and scrap crane was to be upgraded to include additional radio control. The particular challenge was to enable both cranes to be controlled safely and flexibly using just one remote control. At the same time, individual functions—particularly the long-distance travel of the casting crane—had to remain available at all times, regardless of which crane was selected. Since the crane systems had to ensure high availability for ongoing production, the retrofit could only be carried out in stages while operations continued. Commissioning therefore had to be carried out in many individual steps and, in some cases, on a shift-by-shift basis.

Solution
Customized radio control solution for the safe operation of both cranes.
gefeba developed a solution specifically tailored to the requirements for the additional radio operation of the coupled crane system. To this end, a new coupling cabinet was installed on the casting crane, and an additional coupling panel was integrated into the support structure of the scrap crane. By using a custom radio solution from Cattron, both cranes could be controlled using a single remote control. The transmitter used was capable of connecting to two receiver units simultaneously. This allowed functions such as hoisting, auxiliary hoisting, or trolley travel to be flexibly operated on both cranes from outside the operator’s cab by switching between them. In addition, new crane access signaling systems, visual indicators for operating mode selection, and safety-related limit switches were installed to ensure safe and reliable operation of the system.
Result
Flexible crane control with minimal production downtime.

Thanks to the phased implementation during ongoing operations, the additional radio control system was implemented without any extended production downtime. The new solution enables flexible and safe operation of both cranes via a central remote control, while also improving the usability and efficiency of the entire system. The custom-developed control solution also ensures a high level of operational reliability and meets the specific requirements of the industrial production environment in the metal industry.

Project Type
Retrofits & Radio Operations for Crane Systems
Services
Electrical Design, Electrical Installation, Switchgear Construction
Technologies
Hardware Design, Cattron Wireless Solution
Industry
Metal Industry
Distinctive Feature
Simultaneous control of two crane systems via a remote control
Operating Concept
Radio operation and pulpit operation can be combined
Completion
2023

Why Customers
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We develop customized solutions—from analysis through the engineering phase to commissioning and support. Our focus is on maximum functionality, on-time delivery, and durability.

Our project work is supported by collaborations with leading technology partners such as Siemens, Rittal, B&R, and Proxmox, which provide the technological foundation for our project results and help expand them.

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