This article originally appeared on the Morris Cranes web site.
MILWAUKEE, WI (December 11, 2002) – When Siemens-Westinghouse in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada went
looking for an upgrade to two of their overhead cranes, they turned to Morris Material
Handling-Eastern Canada for a solution.
Siemens-Westinghouse wanted to improve the overall crane performance through factors such
as shortened lift times, higher speeds and improved torque and position control. In addition
to keeping costs to a minimum, a short conversion time and tight delivery schedule needed
to be considered.
To minimize costs, the existing 250VDC power conductor system was reused, however the existing
DC motors and controls were converted to an AC system. Morris partnered with Brock Solutions’
Drive and Automation Group. Brock supplied the unique and cost-effective AC flux vector control
to replace the old DC magnetic control system.
The control system was fully tested and proven in the factory prior to shipping to circumvent
any problems that could have occurred during the short, 4-day installation window.
The crane is being used in the assembly area for handling large, heavy loads such as turbine
frames, rotors, bearings, covers and assembled engines. Since implementation, Siemens-Westinghouse
has experienced the improvements they were looking for. Feedback from operators is extremely
positive, and they are claiming "DEAD ON" positioning from the hoists. It is anticipated that
the investment in the new system will be fully recovered within a relatively short period of
time.
Siemens Westinghouse in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, is a world leader in precision
manufacturing, assembly and service of gas turbines for the power generation industry.
Morris Material Handling is a leading international provider of electric overhead traveling
cranes, gantry cranes, hoists and winches for industrial and other applications, with operations
based in the US, Canada, Mexico, Chile and Australia.
