Evaluation of Characteristics and Reliability of an Auger Crane with Built-in Hydraulic Extender

Abstract

Abstract - This study evaluated the characteristics and reliability of an auger crane with a built-in hydraulic extender. The field test of the hydraulic extender was performed with the hydraulic lines filled with hydraulic fluid and free of air. The pressure generated during the test was measured with a digital pressure gauge. The crane was considered to have undergone one cycle of the excavation process after it had performed excavation under three conditions at the same location. This process was performed three times in total. From the results of the excavation using the hydraulic extender, it was found that the maximum pressure and torque measured were 19.9 [MPa] and 895.4 [kgf․m], respectively. The rotation force of the auger crane generated at this time signifies a horizontal force. If the excavation diameter of the auger crane is increased, the rotation speed is reduced causing the circumferential speed to also be reduced. The torsional shear stress of the extendable auger crane was calculated to be approximately 23.5 [MPa]. However, the rotation shaft material used for this system was carbon steel for machine structural use (SM45C). Since the minimum torsional yield stress is greater than 150 [MPa] according to KS D 3752, it means the equipment has secured a safety factor greater than 6. Therefore, it was found that when performing work using the extendable auger crane, it exhibited no problems with the safety and reliability of its shaft.Key Words : Auger Crane, Hydraulic Extender, Pressure, Torque, Safety, Reliability