Catenary wire can be used in various applications, from domestic commercial and industrial. It has many different uses and can be bought in various different lengths, and as different types of wire as well. Here, learn more about what catenary wire is and what the name means, as well as exploring the different types of wire and what they can be used for.

In simple terms, the word ‘catenary’ simply means the curve that is created when wire (or chain) is supported at either end. It is a broad term for any kind of wire that is assembled like this – it might be used for electrically wired transportation, overhead electricity, light fittings and more. The catenary wire is used to install wire rope overhead and some of the applications in everyday life include Christmas lighting, hanging heavy curtains and suspending heavy power cables. Sometimes it might be installed into masonry or concrete, in which case it might be supplied in a kit form with the required fittings.

Different Types of Catenary Wire

There are two main types of catenary wire you may come across: galvanised catenary cable and stainless steel catenary wire. Here are the key differences to consider so you can purchase the right kind of catenary wire depending on your operations.

When catenary wire is galvanised, what this means is that it has a protective zinc coating that has been applied over the wire. The zinc will provide protection, preventing the wire rope corroding or going rusty over time, especially when used in certain conditions or out of doors. While stainless steel catenary wire will also not rust (it will be naturally resistant due to the material), the zinc will still offer a level of additional protection that can be beneficial. If the equipment and wire is mostly going to be used in an outdoors environment, then galvanised catenary wire might be preferable to give it the best chance of lasting a long time.

In fact, many people tend to use catenary wire out of doors for applications like supporting cables along train tracks, and other kinds of overhead wiring. This means that galvanised wire may be the better option – if you are at all unsure, it is always best to check with the supplier to make sure you will be getting the right kind of wire to meet your needs. Both types of catenary wire should be made from high grade steel, which can be used safely in various internal and external environments, so it is always best to check. Any experienced supplier will have come across these questions many times before and will be able to offer comprehensive advice and talk you through the option. They will also be able to talk to you about how much catenary wire you will need to buy to meet your needs, and they will be able to supply the wire cut to your exact length and specifications where their more standard wire sizes and lengths will not be a suitable fit.

When working in construction, a crane is likely on your list of equipment that you need to purchase. Now, purchasing a brand new crane may not be feasible for every construction company as they are very pricey. But not to worry, there is the option to purchase used cranes from other construction companies that are looking to upgrade. This is a more affordable way for you to purchase a crane for your business. But when purchasing a used crane, there are a few things you need to look out for. Today, we are going to share some of these with you.

The Price – Are You Being Ripped Off?
Firstly you want to look at the price you are going to be paying. Compare this price to what the crane will cost to purchase new. You should also compare it to others that are on the market. You need to decide whether or not this is a good deal. Think about how much it has been used, and more importantly if there is any way you could get a better deal by knocking some money off.

Will It Need Replacements?
When purchasing a used crane, you need to remember that it has been used. This will likely mean that certain aspects of the crane will need to be replaced to ensure it is operating to the best of its ability and safely. These are generally the metal chains that will be used to lift items with the crane. If this need replacement, you can knock down the price to cover the cost of these chains.

Is It Right For Your Business?
You will also need to consider if this used crane is right for your business. You may find a good deal, but the crane may not be right for your business. It may be too large or too small for your business. Make sure you are only purchasing a crane that is right for your business.

Jib cranes can be standard, but they are often bespoke, made specifically for the environment where they are going to be used. A tailored jib crane will be made specifically to the requirements of the environment where it is used, so it will usually be a very good fit and will provide maximum output, something that is very important when assessing the cost effectiveness of something like a new jib crane.

Some of the things that can be adapted when a jib crane is bespoke are:

• Headroom – bespoke cranes can be adapted for environments where space is tight
• Mounting – it can be freestanding or can be mounted on a wall or post
• Functionality
• Lifting capacity

It can therefore be good value for money to get a bespoke jib crane because you won’t be paying for one that has a far higher capacity than you need, or different functionality to what you require.

Using an electric hoist for lifting is the smart way to lift loads in the material handling and lifting industry. A hoist that is electric is a step up from a manual hoist as it will operate with power, so the lift will be less strenuous for the person who is operating the hoist. A lift that is less strenuous is a lift that is safer, so ultimately, using an electric hoist can make lifting a safer process, especially for heavy and bulky loads or one that might be awkward.

While lifting with an electric hoist working within the correct capacity is very important. Lifting equipment such as a hoist comes with a capacity on it for a reason, so if this capacity is exceeded when lifting a load, it can be detrimental. It is very dangerous to do this, which is the main reason why it should never be done, and the load weight and hoist capacity must be understood in full before loading is ever attempted. This is an essential safety process that must be built into lifting and moving loads by anybody who is deemed to be a competent person. Operatives must take responsibility for their own health and safety – employers must provide safe equipment and operatives must use said equipment in a safe way. Building in safety processes is key.

There are three types of electric hoist that can be used for lifting: electric chain hoists, heavy duty electric chain hoists, and electric wire rope hoists. There are various reasons why somebody might want to use one type over another type. Here is a little more information on each of the electric hoist types, including their capacities and how to use them safely.

Electric chain hoists

The maximum capacity for an electric chain hoist is usually around 30 tonnes; this is the safe working load, or SWL. This means that 30 tonnes is the maximum weight that can be lifted safely and this must never be exceeded. They can be used indoors and out to lift a variety of load types in many industries.

Heavy duty electric chain hoists

These will have higher duty ratings, because they are made for more intense use than normal electric chain hoists. They might have a safe working load of around 10 tonnes, rather than the usual 30 tonnes of a normal electric chain hoist.

Electric wire rope hoists

Electric wire rope hoists, on the other hand, might be able to lift loads of around 100 tonnes, depending on the exact specifications and the brand of hoist. This means that they can have a safe working load of around 70 tonnes more than a heavy duty electric chain hoist with maximum lifting load specification. They are generally used for more heavy duty applications due to this ability to lift heavier loads.

With all types of electric hoist, the safe working load will change depending on the brand and model. Always check these before proceeding with a lift – you can never be too safe when working with heavy loads.