What to Prepare Before a First Consultation

When you contact us for the first time about a structural audit or a finite element analysis of an overhead crane, the conversation goes faster if you have a few things ready. This is not about filling forms — it is about giving the engineer a clear picture of what the crane does, how it is used, and what worries you.

Start with the crane's basic data: rated capacity, span, year of manufacture, and any previous modifications. If you have the original design drawings or the last inspection report, that helps. Even a photo of the nameplate with the serial number is useful. The more specific the information, the less time we spend guessing the geometry.

Describe the operating cycle. How many lifts per hour? What is the typical load compared to the rated capacity? Is the crane used in a continuous process or in batches? A crane that lifts near its limit every ten minutes has a different fatigue profile than one that runs light loads most of the day. Temperature, humidity, and exposure to corrosive agents also matter — especially in foundries, steel mills, or port terminals.

Tell us about any visible issues: unusual vibrations, noise from the girders, cracks in welds, or deformation in the runway beams. Even small observations can point to a pattern. If you have records of past repairs or replacements of components like wheels, bearings, or bolts, include those too.

Finally, think about what you expect from the analysis. Do you need a remaining life estimate? A recommendation for reinforcement? A baseline for a predictive maintenance program? Knowing the goal helps us choose the right modeling approach and the level of detail in the report.

That is all. A few documents, a description of the operation, and a clear objective. With that, the first consultation becomes a working session instead of a general introduction.