Practical Design and Detailing Approach for Crane Runway Structures

Abstract

<p> At present there is no code of practice or design guide for the complete design of crane run ways. Many sources o-f information apply to steel structures in general and do not address some of the more important design and practical aspects of crane runways. It is the purpose of this report to review the various standard procedures together with rules and guidelines which result from practical experience in design, construction and operation. In particular it is hoped to identify those questions around which there appears to be some uncertainty or lack of substantiation. Some of these topics are identified as areas for possible future research. </p> <p> The report considers the version components of the runway system and the loads which act on them. After discussion of the dynamic nature of loading and the allowances made for vertical and horizontal loads, the supporting system is described with reference to accepted guidelines, design details and sketches of connections. Interaction of the various components considers the design and detailing of the rail the girder, the horizontal girder (or surge plate) and columns and foundations. Use is made of a computer program to compare the behaviour of alternative girder support systems and the advantages and disadvantages of each is summarized. </p>