How to Exchange the Tires of a Rubber Tyred Gantry Crane  

A rubber tyred gantry crane (RTG) is a vital piece of equipment used in ports, container yards, and industrial settings for lifting and moving heavy loads. Like any machinery, its components require regular maintenance, and one of the most important aspects is replacing its tires when they wear out or become damaged. Proper tire exchange ensures the crane operates safely and efficiently, minimizing the risk of accidents or breakdowns. Here’s a step-by-step guide to safely and effectively exchange the tires of an RTG crane.

Understand When to Replace the Tires

Before beginning the tire replacement process, it’s important to determine whether the tires need to be changed. Common signs include:

Excessive wear and tear: Visible cracks, low tread depth, or uneven wear.

Performance issues: Reduced maneuverability or instability while operating the crane.

Physical damage: Punctures, sidewall cuts, or bulges caused by heavy impacts.

Manufacturer’s guidelines: Following the recommended tire lifespan provided by the manufacturer.

Ignoring these signs can lead to costly downtime and safety hazards.

Prepare for the Tire Exchange

Proper preparation is key to safely replacing the tires on a rubber tyred gantry crane. Steps include:

Gathering tools and equipment: Ensure you have the right tools, such as heavy-duty jacks, wrenches, and a torque wrench. You may also need cranes or hoists for lifting the crane during the tire replacement process.

Checking replacement tires: Confirm that the new tires match the specifications required for the RTG crane, including size, load capacity, and durability.

Safety measures: Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, hard hats, and steel-toed boots. Also, set up safety barriers around the work area to prevent unauthorized access.

Inspecting the area: Ensure the ground is level and strong enough to support the crane during the tire exchange process.

Lift the Crane Safely

Lifting the RTG crane is one of the most critical steps in the tire replacement process. Follow these tips for safe lifting:

Use heavy-duty jacks: Place hydraulic or mechanical jacks under the designated lifting points on the crane. These points are usually specified in the manufacturer’s manual.

Stabilize the crane: Use supports or blocks to stabilize the crane and prevent any movement during the process.

Lift one side at a time: To maintain balance, lift one side of the crane at a time instead of lifting it entirely off the ground.

Remove the Old Tires

Once the crane is lifted and secured, proceed to remove the worn-out tires:

Loosen the lug nuts: Use a wrench to loosen the lug nuts before fully lifting the crane. This prevents the tires from spinning while on the ground.

Remove the tires: After lifting the crane, remove the loosened lug nuts and carefully detach the old tires from the wheel assembly.

Inspect the wheel assembly: Check the wheel hubs and rims for signs of damage, corrosion, or wear. Clean and repair these components if necessary.

Install the New Tires

After removing the old tires, install the new ones following these steps:

Align the tires: Position the new tires against the wheel hubs, ensuring proper alignment with the bolt holes.

Secure the lug nuts: Hand-tighten the lug nuts to hold the tire in place, then use a torque wrench to tighten them to the manufacturer’s recommended torque settings. Tighten the nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.

Check tire pressure: Inflate the tires to the correct pressure as specified in the manufacturer’s guidelines. Underinflated or overinflated tires can lead to poor performance and increased wear.

Lower the Crane and Test

Once the new tires are installed:

Lower the crane: Gradually lower the crane back to the ground, removing the jacks and supports carefully.

Conduct a test run: Move the crane slowly and check for any unusual noises, vibrations, or instability. Ensure the tires are functioning properly before resuming regular operations.

Maintain Proper Tire Care

To extend the lifespan of the new tires and ensure the RTG crane operates efficiently, follow these maintenance tips:

Regular inspections: Check tire condition and pressure regularly to detect issues early.

Load limits: Avoid exceeding the crane’s load capacity, as overloading can strain the tires.

Proper alignment: Ensure the tires are properly aligned to prevent uneven wear.

Environmental factors: Protect the tires from extreme weather conditions and exposure to harmful chemicals.

When to Seek Professional Assistance

If you lack the necessary tools or expertise to replace the tires, it’s best to hire a professional service. Professional technicians can ensure the process is done safely and efficiently, minimizing downtime and potential risks.

Replacing the tires on a rubber tyred gantry crane is a crucial maintenance task that ensures safe and reliable operations. By understanding when to replace the tires, preparing adequately, and following a step-by-step process, you can minimize downtime and extend the crane’s lifespan. Additionally, implementing proper tire care and maintenance practices will help you get the most out of your investment, keeping your operations running smoothly.