Crane Hot Line is part of the Catalyst Communications Network publication family.
Safety is an all-encompassing project on job sites involving cranes and it’s often that one of the most effective tools at your disposal are the eyes of your crane operators. Expanding their viewpoint is the latest crane camera technologies from leading manufacturers.
HoistCam
In an adaptable wireless system, up to eight HoistCam by Netarus cameras can be installed on cranes quickly and easily using magnets and a safety lanyard. The system is powered by a 12VDC lithium-ion battery or 12VDC wired power for extended shifts or can be hardwired into the crane’s power system (24VDC models also available).
HoistCam also offers HoistCam Director enterprise software that allows offsite management and supervisors to monitor all operations in real-time from a desktop or mobile device. HoistCam Director is configurable and able to integrate sensor data that can record and trigger alerts.
HookCam
Designed for tower cranes, HookCam can be mounted on blocks or trolleys and provides a high-resolution image on a balanced screen in darkness or bright light. The system is powered by a rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery for 10-12 hours of use. Alternative power is enabled by a 12/24DC Conversion or 110/115AC (US) system.
The fifth generation HookCam features an adaptable mounting system that can be installed/uninstalled with the turn of a switch and fitted to a variety of cranes. The adjustable camera location always allows for a clear view from the hook and includes tethers for added security. The system’s camera automatically focuses on the load.
BlokCam
BlokCam, part of Crosby, is a battery-powered, wireless system that can be quickly and easily deployed to the hook block or boom tip of a crane. The Blokcam M3L camera system is designed for mobile and crawler cranes. The Blokcam X3L system is offered for tower cranes.
On the hook block and/or boom tip, BlokCam uses sensors to capture audio and video that is then transmitted to a repeater on the jib, boom or cab, which relays it wirelessly using an antenna system to an in-cab monitor. Each component attaches magnetically.
Orlaco
Orlaco camera systems for cranes provide a view of winches, hooks and loads, and the areas behind or to the side of the machine. With one touch of the monitor, the operator can easily switch between different camera images of the crane.
The Orlaco system’s load-view camera, directed downward toward the hook from the tip of the boom, brings the work area into focus. The monitor in the cab provides the crane operator with a continuous view while lifting, whatever the position of the crane and load.
Hercules
The Hercules crane camera system from Scarlet Tech is a wireless solution that can be deployed to the hook block or boom tip of a crane. Main components of the Hercules Pro system include a hook camera (comprising a camera, camera transmitter, and standalone battery) that captures
the video feed.
Via its transmitter, the hook camera sends the video image to the system’s streamlink high-speed wireless ultra-long-range station that is installed on the jib or boom. In the cab, a monitor console receives the wireless signal from the hook camera transmitter and displays real-time footage.
Improving Safety, Efficiency and Productivity
By eliminating blind spots during crane operations, camera systems mitigate the risk of accidents by empowering operators with a clear view of the load, the worksite, and potential hazards. This heightened visibility streamlines coordination and ensures precise load positioning.
With a direct view of the load and its surroundings crane operators can also make more accurate movements and placements, and enhance efficiency and productivity, leading to time and cost savings on construction projects.
