Introduction and Maintenance of Container Lifting Spreader

At container ports, container lifting spreaders and forklifts move thousands of containers. To avoid the equipment suddenly coming to a standstill and the quay being congested, port operators usually need to focus on spreader maintenance and upkeep.

As the most common lifting equipment in the port, the operation efficiency of the port depends on the container lifting spreader. This article will introduce you to the maintenance and consideration of two common spreaders.

Contents hide

1 What is fixed container lifting spreader?

1.1 Semi-automatic Container Spreader

1.2 Manual Container Spreader

2 How to maintain the fixed container spreader?

3 What is a telescopic container lifting spreader?

4 How to maintain the telescopic spreader?

4.1 Wear parts and structures you should be aware of

5 OUCO Can Help

What is fixed container lifting spreader?

A fixed container lifting spreader is a specialized piece of equipment used to lift and move shipping containers.

This is the most common type of spreader, and we can also call it a container spreader beam. Its advantages are simple construction, affordable price, easy maintenance, and excellent price-performance ratio.

Fixed simple spreaders are commonly used to lift both 20ft and 40ft containers. There is no power supply in the spreader. Usually, we distinguish Fixed Spreaders as semi-automatic spreaders and manual container spreaders.

Semi-automatic Container Spreader

A semi-automatic container spreader is a specialized piece of equipment used to lift and move shipping containers.

Semi-automatic container spreaders require less manual input than a fixed container spreader, making them more efficient and less labor intensive.

By relying on the self-weight and the elasticity of the spring to rotate the central shaft, the pin is driven to lock the fixed container, and then the lifting operation is carried out. After reaching the designated position, the crane will turn the pin and release the container without manpower.

Manual Container Spreader

A manual container spreader is a specialized piece of equipment used to lift and move shipping containers.

During use, manually turn the twistlocks to lock and release the container. Then, the spreader can perform lifting and handling operations.

It is operated by one or more people and requires manual input from the operator in order to adjust the spreader arms to fit the size and shape of the container.

The spreader is then connected to a crane, which lifts and moves the container. Manual container spreaders are the most basic form of container spreader, and are often used for smaller containers or when a more precise fit is not required.

How to maintain the fixed container spreader?

Fixed spreaders spreaders do not require much maintenance and upkeep. All you need to do is:

Check the condition of load-bearing components before use
Non-destructive testing, ensure timely detection of the frame and key structure deformations
Check that the wire rope is firm and in good condition
Check pins for damage and avoid the accumulation of dust and debris
Lubricate twistlocks, locking pins, and operating levers regularly, keep them clean

If your spreader is damaged, choose qualified technicians and engineers to repair it.

In addition, there are few accessories for fixed spreaders, which can be said very worry-free and labor-saving. With its price advantage and maintenance-free benefits, this product has become the preference of our customers.

What is a telescopic container lifting spreader?

The electro-hydraulic telescopic spreader is suitable for 20′, 40′ and even 45′ high cube containers. It can adapt to different types of containers through the telescopic beam.

The power is usually electric and electro-hydraulic. According to different working conditions, we will recommend suitable spreaders for customers.

Generally, electro-hydraulic power sources are more stable. It performs better in port due to year-round wind, sun and extreme temperatures.

To improve efficiency and adapt to different lifting requirements, various mechanisms have been installed on the spreader, such as hydraulic guides, tilting devices, rotating mechanisms, gravity center adjustment mechanisms, etc., making the telescopic spreader increasingly versatile.

Therefore, the telescopic spreader adds a lot of extra parts, and subsequent maintenance is necessary, and workers need to check the electric system and hydraulic system at regular intervals.

How to maintain the telescopic spreader?

The telescopic spreader adds a lot of extra parts, and subsequent maintenance is necessary, and workers need to check the electric system and hydraulic system at regular intervals.

You should check the linkage and steering mechanism frequently and lubricate it to make each part rotate flexibly.

If there is obvious damage and deformation of the sling and wire rope, stop using it!

Avoid water intrusion into electrical components.

When the container lifting spreader is transported and placed, we must place it on the bracket or pad, so that the top of the twist lock is off the ground.

This is to prevent the top of the twist lock from rubbing against the ground and hindering the rotation of the twist lock when it is hoisted, thereby causing damage to the transmission mechanism.