When most people think of cranes they think of construction (and rightly so!). Cranes are used to lift and move loads which are beyond human ability to transport simply, so they are commonly employed in loading and unloading freight or in material movement during construction. We at Sheedy Crane specialized in these typical functions of cranes. But these traditional and well-known uses of cranes aren’t the whole story. Cranes for film production have a rich and widely varied history and are responsible for many iconic scenes in a countless number of blockbuster films.

Why cranes are essential in film production

Cranes are essential in film production because they allow filmmakers to capture shots that would otherwise be impossible. Cranes can move in multiple directions, providing filmmakers with the ability to capture unique angles and perspectives. They also allow for smooth, steady movement, which is essential for creating visually stunning shots.

Introducing: Crane Shots

Camera man using Cranes for Film Production on wild west movie set The ground-breaking addition of cranes to the repertoire of tools used in film production can be traced back to 1916, with the film Intolerance. This D.W. Griffith silent film features what is widely accepted as the first “crane shot.” The inventor and engineer Allan Dwan, a fellow film director, dreamed up the yet-unheard-of shot for Griffith’s film. The result had an impact, making audience members gasp in wonder from the grandiosity and scale of the sight.

Not long thereafter, camera cranes created to elicit just such a reaction became popular at major movie studios. They were typically produced as massive monstrosities, specialty items created by large ironworks companies. They got bigger and heavier, carrying multiple people and the cumbersome camera equipment of the day. Each crane was built with a specific shot or purpose in mind, and as such their appearance and capabilities varied greatly, while their mobility was limited.

Different types of cranes used in film production

There are several types of cranes used in film production, including the telescopic crane, the camera crane, and the jib arm. Each of these cranes has its own unique features and benefits, making it important to choose the right crane for the specific shot you want to capture.

Telescopic cranes are the most common type of crane used in film production. They allow for smooth, continuous movement, and can reach heights of up to 100 feet. Camera cranes, on the other hand, are smaller and more lightweight, making them ideal for capturing shots in tight spaces.

Jib arms are another popular type of crane used in film production. They are ideal for capturing shots that require a lot of movement, such as tracking shots and crane shots. Jib arms can be mounted on a tripod or attached to a dolly, providing filmmakers with even more flexibility and control.

Benefits of using cranes in film production

Using cranes in film production offers several benefits, including increased flexibility, improved shot quality, and more efficient production. Cranes allow filmmakers to capture shots that would otherwise be impossible, giving them more creative control over their work. They also make it easier to create smooth, seamless shots, which can help improve the overall quality of the film.

In addition, using cranes in film production can help make the production process more efficient. By using cranes, filmmakers can capture multiple shots in a single take, reducing the need for multiple retakes and speeding up the production process.

The Camera Crane Revolution

And so it was, for over 20 years in the film industry. Bulky cranes for film production with little flexibility stayed on studio lots, seldom transported to on-location shoots. That all changed in the late 1940’s, when Ralph Chapman, a special effects technician with a knack for engineering, developed a line of cranes. His gasoline-powered film crane could travel on location independently, revolutionizing the use of exterior crane shots in film. Before long, these mobile crane units were available for hire. Camera man using Cranes for Film Production

Television and sports soon joined the fray, and the high-angle boom shots became popular in filming dance numbers, creating emotive scenes, and covering sports, much to the delight of audiences. Since the early days of limited, one-off cranes made for particular shots, technology has exploded. Crane capability has vastly improved, alongside the safety-consciousness and expertise of operators. The use of crane shots in both television and film is ubiquitous in the modern era of entertainment.

Cranes for Film Production Today

Studios and production companies generally rent crane equipment from the manufacturers who own them. This cuts down on costs and allows for a variety of cranes to be used on a production. The usage of rented cranes in film and production has seen a decline in recent years, as the introduction of drones and light-weight digital cameras have revolutionized the industry. Despite this shift, there will no doubt always be room for the silent, sweeping shots which can only be obtained by the massive cranes originally designed decades ago. They are a part of the history and future of the crane industry, and will help tell stories in a way nothing else can for years to come.

Got any questions about crane rental or our other services? Contact us today or give us a call at (415) 648-7171.

At Sheedy Drayage Co. we are capable of performing almost any hoisting, rigging, or hauling task efficiently and safely. We have an extensive fleet of mobile and specialty cranes to get the job done in any industry. From tanks, refineries, power plants, steel and rebar, and mechanical equipment to emergency assistance or movie and television support, we have decades of experience working with every type of business. However those who may not be as familiar with our industry often ask us “How Does a Crane Work?” Follow along as we delve into various the crane mechanics and explore how these powerful machines can enhance the efficiency of your upcoming project

A crane uses a variety of simple machines to create large amounts of support and leverage. Using wire ropes or chains, sheaves, and a hoist rope, cranes can move extremely large and heavy loads that are far beyond the capability of humans. The Ancient Greeks were the first known inventors of the modern construction crane and employed the use of human treadwheels and animals to power the structures. Since then, technology has grown exponentially and so has the use and complexity of cranes. There are hundreds of various crane forms, with each design tailored for a specific use. Our cranes can be used to construct high buildings, while our flying jibs can be used for highly specific purposes, such as getting a load into a building with an overhang.

How Does a Crane Work: The Basics of Crane Mechanics

Cranes are a staple of any large construction site. As said above, there are a large variety of crane types; however, they are all engineered to perform a similar task. That is, to lift and move heavy loads. Cranes are generally mobile pieces of equipment due to the fact that they must travel to many different construction sites around the country. If you’ve ever seen one while in operation, maybe you’ve wondered how the metal arm can lift and support a huge amount of weight while not toppling over. There are quite a few engineering and physics feats that go into each lift and having engineers that know the mathematics behind each job is imperative to the success of the job. Some jobs are completed in busy cities with many people around the job site; because of this, error is simply not an option.

The majority of cranes feature a number of pulleys and cables to lift and lower heavy pieces of equipment and material. Think generators, turbines, huge slabs of concrete and other materials that weigh thousands of pounds. Ever wonder how they get those huge glass windows into skyscrapers? The answer is simple: cranes. Here’s the basic anatomy of one:

how does a crane work.

The boom – This is what the very end of the crane looks like. It’s the long steel arm that has the hook or another specialized piece of equipment on the end of it.
The hook and ball – the shape and size of the hook depend on a few things, such as how much weight the crane is carrying and what industry it is being used for. For example, gigantic steel claws are used in scrap yards to pick up huge amounts of steel debris. For another application, a hook is more suitable for lifting large shipping containers from port to ship.
The jib – either connected at the top or end of the boom, its structure carries the load and extends the boom to provide increased mobility. Think of the jib as the wrist and the boom as the arm, with the hook being the fingers of the crane.
Counterweight – this is one of the measures used to make sure that the crane does not topple over due to the weight differential. Either found at the base of the crane or near the cab of the crane, these counterbalance the weight being lifted by the boom to ensure the safety of the workers and the construction site.
Outriggers – Severe shifts in balance occur when operating a crane, due to the weight of the load. These are used in addition to counterweights to help stabilize the entire crane by using hydraulics to lift the entire crane at once.
Steel Cables – these travel alongside the arm, with the average cable capable of carrying an excess of 10,000 pounds of weight or more per cable. More cables are used for certain jobs, with some varieties being able to handle much more weight than others.

How Does a Crane Work: The Physics of Crane Operation

Cranes operate according to the laws of physics, and understanding these principles is critical for safe and efficient crane operation. The key physics concepts involved in crane operation include load capacity, center of gravity, and stability.

Load Capacity – The load capacity of a crane is the maximum weight it can lift safely. This capacity is determined by the strength of the crane’s components, such as the boom and cables, as well as the weight and balance of the load.
Center of Gravity – The center of gravity is the point in the load where its weight is concentrated. When a crane lifts a load, the center of gravity must be positioned over the supporting structure of the crane to ensure stability and prevent tipping over.
Stability – Stability is a critical factor in crane operation. The stability of a crane is determined by its weight distribution, the size and location of the counterweights, and the position of the load. Cranes must be positioned on a level surface to maintain stability and prevent accidents.

How Does a Crane Work: Crane Applications

Cranes have numerous applications in various industries, from construction to manufacturing to shipping and logistics.

Construction – Cranes are essential for construction projects, such as building bridges, high-rise buildings, and stadiums. They are used to lift and position heavy materials, such as steel beams and concrete blocks.
Manufacturing – Cranes are used in manufacturing plants to transport and position heavy machinery and equipment. They can also be used for material handling and assembly line production.
Shipping and Logistics – Cranes are used in shipping ports and terminals to load and unload containers from ships and trucks. They are also used in warehouses and distribution centers for material handling and storage.

Crane Rentals in California – Contact Sheedy Drayage Co.

With over 85 years of experience we can certainly answer your questions like “how does a crane work?” With small and large jobs alike over 8 decades, at Sheedy Drayage Co. we have distinguished ourselves as an iconic leader in the industry. Our expertise in crane mechanics and heavy machinery distinguishes us from the rest. It doesn’t matter whether it’s residential, commercial or heavy industrial; there is simply no job that we can’t handle. Contact Sheedy today for all of your crane rental and hoist rental needs.

Safety in the workplace is not only a good idea; it’s mandatory under most workplace safety regulations.

In the US, the requirements fall under the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), and the associated standards and regulations.

Because of the dangerous nature of construction sites, they are hotbeds of problems awaiting an OSHA inspector.

Cranes are one area where there are a lot of potential risks. Guess what? Being proactive in your approach to safety will head them off at the pass, and significantly reduce the chances of anything disastrous happening to your staff or equipment onsite.

Appointment of a Safety Officer

It’s mandatory to have a safety officer appointed responsible for the site. The safety officer should complete daily checks of all at-risk areas to identify hazards.
Identifying hazards is an important preventative measure for reducing risks.

Development of Procedures

The next important part of site safety regulations is developing proper compliant procedures for crane operation.

These are the responsibility of the employer or contractor. All personnel must be aware of the procedures, and operate according to their specifications.

Crane Operation Specific Risks

The federal regulation guidelines are rather complex when it comes to cranes and derricks, as one would expect with the nature of the equipment. The following details some of the key areas that are covered by the regulations. It is by no means a comprehensive list!

This is merely food for thought regarding what needs to be in place before crane operation can commence.

Applicable Regulations

The OSH Act, and Regulation Standard 29 CFR parts 1910, 1917-1919, 1926 apply to workplace safety and construction sites, with many subsections specifically detailing the operation of cranes along with risks of overhead loads, heavy lifting, and falls.

All crane operators must comply with the requirements of these standards.

Signals

A system of warning is needed to indicate to workers when overhead loads are in progress.

Fall Protection

A barrier system is needed to prevent access to areas where overhung loads may cause a problem. Compliant lifting platforms must be used where personnel are to be hoisted.

Ground Conditions, Assembly and Disassembly

The employer must have procedures for proper assembly and disassembly, and for assessing ground conditions. Competent and qualified persons must perform all work.

The procedures will include ensuring brake testing and application prior to movement, security of all attachment points, and the stability of footings, among other items.

Crane Operation Qualifications

All operations and maintenance personnel must be properly trained. The regulations define what is required to be considered a competent person, and a qualified person when it comes to crane operation.

Securing Loads

Attention by qualified persons to properly securing loads prior to lifting is of vital importance.

Everyone is Involved in Safety

A safety management system that is proactive ensures that all employees and contractors have a stake in the safety process. Having a vested interest means that employees are encouraged to identify hazards and suggest solutions.

Those completing the work often have a far better knowledge of what is safe and unsafe in their own jobs. Workers are also usually very understanding of the need for efficiency from commercial pressure, so solutions will often involve streamlining of processes while improving safety.

Once they have received proper safety training and have been provided with guidance on safety attitudes, workers can help improve safety processes, moving the operation from reactive to proactive, making it an OSHA inspectors dream.

Seek Expert Assistance

If you’re not sure about the adequate safety of your crane and the workplace environment, the best solution is to seek professional assistance from an industry expert, like Sheedy Crane. Contact us today with your questions.

crane

Difficult lifting or jacking jobs are like puzzles for those of us in the industry. We thrive on helping businesses solve difficult lifting safely and efficiently.

What are some of the most puzzling types of jobs we’ve come across in our years of heavy lifting?

Foundation Replacement

One of the most diverse jobs in lifting and support is the need for propping up buildings. An unsurprisingly common need in San Francisco is seismic retrofitting. That is, jacking up older buildings to upgrade foundations for earthquake proofing. The foundation replacement requires specialized jacks, frames, and lifting equipment, alongside project design co-ordination to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Seismic retrofitting requires a difficult balancing act where support columns are jacked up with temporary support, while base isolators are installed. With our list of accomplishments including San Francisco City Hall and the Benicia-Martinez Bridge, among some of the largest seismic isolation projects in the world, no job is too big!

Overhanging Roofs

Where an overhang exists, it’s hard to get a crane in position. This is where a type of crane called a flying jib comes in handy.

The flying jib is a counter-weighted arm, which allows the load weight to hang at a distance from the crane pick-up point, therefore allowing the item to be placed under an overhanging roof easily.

A flying jib can also be a pivoted and weighted arm attached to a crane for more diverse angles.

Awkward Shapes and Sizes

When an item is regularly shaped, it’s easy to pick up with standard equipment. When there are irregular shapes, off-center weights, and difficult attachment points, the means of securing the load can become more complicated. The solution to this is simple. However, if one of our non-standard rigging solutions doesn’t suit the item, then a custom rigging solution can be designed to fit, which will make critical lift planning a breeze.

Extremely Heavy Items

While the cranes and hydraulic locking jacks at Sheedy Crane can handle up to 500 tons easily, it’s not as simple as just putting a crane on a truck and setting it up to lift your load.

Firstly, large cranes require special transport, which needs permits and coordination. Then, assembly and rigging need critical attention to ensure the equipment is secure, and that it is structurally and mechanically sound. The rigging for the actual lifting often requires expert design by our specialty engineering team.

Finally, all the strength and safety aspects of the lift need to be thoroughly checked and certified by qualified engineers, in accordance with engineering and safety regulations, an extremely heavy item can’t have any risk of failure.

Specialist Rigging Design

For difficult jobs, a specialist rigging design is required. For complex jobs, professional engineers use 3D CAD modeling to complete the design. 3D modeling enables all aspects of a lift to be considered, from all angles, before the job begins.

Difficult rigging and lifting jobs are the ones we thrive on, so ask us if you need help planning your next critical lift. Contact Sheedy Crane today!

Over the past decades, we at Sheedy Crane have had the opportunity to talk to some of the “best of the best” in the rigging industry who know how to handle oversized load. We’ve seen everything from priceless pieces of art hanging from a crane over a body of water, and an entire bridge being driven through a dirt road in a remote jungle.

Our industry is all about logistics. Some of the top factors we look into when moving anything from a Toyota Camry to a 4-ton block of concrete are how much it weighs? How is the weight distributed? Is it awkward in size? Does it have hazmat limitations?

Here are some of the top considerations when driving an oversized load through a busy location:

First and foremost, know your route. Take the time beforehand and plan exactly where you are going. You don’t want to get stuck on a bridge with a boat crossing when you don’t have to. Cement trucks often times have to plan this out down to the minute when transporting wet cement to a job site.

Know local regulations. There are some towns and municipalities that don’t allow big rigs to come through city streets. Others require you to get a permit for such jobs. You don’t want to get stuck driving tons of equipment across the state only to find out last minute you can’t make it down the “final stretch.” You will also know well in advance whether or not you need a pilot or an escort car, but if you are going across state lines you’ll also need to know if there are any additional regulations for the pilot car.

Know your lodging and stops. Amateur drivers might skip over this part, but in a multi-part or destination trip, it is imperative you know this beforehand. Imagine this: you are 8 hours into a trip and its legally time to clock out. You need to find a hotel, but the only ones nearby don’t have parking for semi’s, and definitely not for oversized loads.

San Francisco, for example, has a map of what it is considered “urbanized” and has special requirements when traveling in those areas.

Get to know your pilot car/escort. Many times you’ll be required to drive along with an escort car. This is normally a sedan-sized vehicle with a marking on the car alerting other motorists of your presence. A good escort car will stay in constant communication with the driver, and in some cases have a passenger in the pilot car equipped with GPS and laptop. Maintaining a good relationship with the pilot vehicle is very important, especially when you are navigating busy city streets or tough intersections.

Hazmat Considerations. Hazmat considerations are important not only for legal reasons but for your own safety as well. If you watch the news you can see some of the results of these accidents in real life. If you are transporting flammable liquids or solids it’s even more important for your own safety and for the general public.

Other considerations. Most States have special considerations for inclement weather, holidays, weight/height, and for mobile homes etc. Transporting an oversized load can take weeks to plan.

Consider Sheedy Crane for your crane and trucking needs. Contact us today for a free estimate.

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