What Is a Crane Control Spare Part? Types and Selection Criteria
A crane control spare part is a part of a pendant crane control, such as a button head, contact block or adapter, that is renewed without replacing the whole station.
A crane control spare part is an individually replaceable part of a pendant crane control station, such as a push button head, contact block or push button adapter. It is used on overhead crane, monorail and hoist controls to renew direction buttons or contacts worn by heavy use without replacing the whole pendant. These parts are not mechanical crane equipment such as ropes, hooks or motors.
Types of parts
| Part | SKU | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Single-speed button head | `PVTHBD` white, `PVTHSD` black | Single step; gives a movement command as long as it is held down |
| Two-speed button head | `PVCHBD` white, `PVCHSD` black | Two steps: the first step operates the slow contact, pressing fully operates the fast movement contact |
| 1NO contact block | `PVB1` | Normally open; closes the circuit when the button is pressed |
| 1NC contact block | `PVB2` | Normally closed; opens the circuit when the button is pressed |
| Push button adapter | `PVA` | PVA series push button adapter |
Based on the product names, TH in the code means single-speed, CH two-speed, and a final B white, S black.
Selection criteria
- Pendant series: These parts, whose codes start with PV, are for EMAS crane pendants. Compare the series code on your pendant's label with the product page; dimensions and connections may differ on other brands' pendants.
- Speed steps: Fit a single-speed head into a single-speed position and a two-speed head into a two-speed position. A two-speed head does not add a second speed by itself; the second speed needs an extra contact in the pendant and a two-speed motor or drive on the crane.
- Contact type: The new contact block must be the same type as the one you removed. Check the pendant's wiring diagram to see which lines use NO and which use NC.
- Colour: White and black heads work the same way; choose the same colour as the old one to keep the pendant's existing layout and direction labels.
Common mistakes
- Fitting NC instead of NO: The direction circuit stays closed without the button being pressed and the movement can start by itself. After the change, check the contacts with a meter before switching the power on.
- Replacing parts with the power on: Switch off and lock out the crane's power before opening the pendant.
- Not testing the direction labels: After replacing the heads, check without a load first that each button moves the crane in the direction on its label.
Related standards
- IEC 60947-5-1: Control circuit devices and switching elements; push buttons and contact blocks fall under this standard.
- IEC 60204-32: Electrical equipment of machines, part for hoisting machines; contains rules for crane control devices.
Crane control spare parts in the catalogue
The Crane Accessories and Spare Parts category has 7 active EMAS products: four button heads (single and two-speed, white and black), two contact blocks (1NO and 1NC) and one push button adapter.
If you need a complete pendant, see crane control boxes with push buttons; to fit out a box yourself, see empty crane control boxes; for spares for 22 mm panel push buttons, see push button and pilot light accessories.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a single-speed and a two-speed button head?
A single-speed head has one step. On a two-speed head the first step gives slow movement and pressing fully operates the fast movement contact; this makes it easier to position the load precisely, but the crane must have two speeds.
What is the difference between PVB1 and PVB2?
PVB1 is a 1NO contact block and closes the circuit when the button is pressed. PVB2 is a 1NC contact block and opens the circuit when the button is pressed. When replacing, use the same type as the block you removed.
Should I replace the pendant or buy spare parts?
If only a button head or contact is worn, a spare part is enough. If the housing is cracked, has let in water or the cable entry is damaged, the pendant needs to be replaced.
Do these spares fit other brands of crane pendants?
The parts are supplied for EMAS crane pendants. Dimensions and connections may differ on other brands, so look for that pendant's own spare parts first.