Description: a concise (1 page) and clear description of the system, its

function, how it operates within its larger system, its input/s, type of
material/energy processing and output/s
Description
Function
Container spreaders are constructed as welded, high quality steel construction. It is comprised of a
mainframe and two telescopic beams. The two pair of telescopic beams slide out from the mid-main
frame and are joined together at the ends by end beams, which house the twist locks, flipper arms and
hydraulic valves. The spreader function is operated from the drivers controls in the crane cab.
The telescoping system is operated by a hydraulic motor and reduction gearbox connected to an
endless chain. The system allows for changes in the length of the spreader. In occasion of a power
failure the telescoping motion can be hand cranked. The positioning system works with proximity
switches for positioning the spreader in the 20', 30' and 40' ISO positions. This system enables the
positioning of the twist locks to be accurate. Four twist locks for single container spreader are located
in the corners of the spreader to safely lift the container. Flat gather guides, commonly called flippers,
are fitted to each end beam of the spreader. They are driven by a powerful hydraulic motor, which
enables fast location of the spreader onto the containers. A drive motor incorporates an electric brake
that is spring applied and takes electrical power to release. This brake controls the accuracy in
stopping the expansion and retraction but also prevents changes from occurring in the spreader length
during use.