Automatic system for guiding, retaining and tightening steel wire rope in cranes

摘要

Disclosed is an automatic system for guiding, retaining and tightening steel wire ropes in cranes, characterized in that it comprises: at least two self-blocking clamps per rope positioned to engage the rope at spaced apart intervals; at least one tightening element that engages each rope at a position between said self-blocking clamps; and sheaves for guiding the ropes between said self-blocking clamps and said tightening element. The system is based on a wedge mechanism that allows automatic and instantaneous (remotely controlled) actuation. The system makes it possible to carry out a cable-change operation with the boom raised, thus allowing manoeuvring of vessels and operation of nearby cranes; it also reduces cable-replacement times; and allows the use of the clamps and tightening element as a mechanism for adjusting the length of the branches. Spreader misalignments can be instantaneously corrected.