How to use the weather vane brake of a tower crane?
3 Answers
Weather vane is used to unlock the brake. After the weather vane is locked, the tower crane can rotate with the wind even when power is lost. When the weather vane brake is released, the weather vane support rod props up the brake mechanism, allowing the crane's boom to rotate with wind direction. Tower cranes are the most commonly used lifting equipment on construction sites. They extend section by section to lift construction materials like steel bars, wooden formworks, and concrete.
Let me discuss the use of tower crane wind vane brakes from a professional perspective. This is a critical safety device for tower cranes in strong wind conditions, used to lock the boom and prevent position deviation caused by high winds. During operation, when wind speed exceeds the set value (typically above level 6), the brake needs to be activated manually or through the control system. Following the procedure, first ensure the crane boom is in a stationary position, then press the brake switch or turn the lever until you hear a confirmation sound indicating it's locked. Don't forget to check if the indicator light and physical anchor points are secure, similar to how a car's ABS system prevents loss of control. Routine maintenance includes weekly lubrication of mechanical components and testing electrical connections to prevent failure due to corrosion. On construction sites, I always remind teams to conduct advance training, recognize abnormal noises as early warnings, and ensure any braking malfunctions are promptly repaired—this is absolutely vital for aerial work safety. Regular maintenance extends service life and reduces unexpected downtime and repair costs, just like vehicle brake maintenance which must never be neglected and requires professional standardized handling.
As someone who frequently works with construction site equipment, I find operating the tower crane anemometer brake quite intuitive, but it requires attentiveness. Starting it in windy conditions is as simple as locking a car door – just operate it via the button or lever in the cab. After activation, observe whether the boom is fully secured to prevent vibration interference. During daily use, keep the brake disc and sensors clean to avoid false alarms; if it jams, don’t force it—call the maintenance team immediately, similar to replacing car brake pads. From my practical experience, preventive training can avert issues, a detail often overlooked by beginners. Recording the equipment’s condition after each braking helps diagnose problems; the key to prolonging the equipment’s lifespan is regular lubrication—don’t wait for a breakdown to fix it. Safety always comes first.
