Is Soldadura Aluminotermica The Right Choice For Your Crane Rail Project?


In operations where overhead cranes are central to operations on a daily basis—e.g., steel mill, ports, mines, and cement plants—the up-time reliability of your rail system is crucial. One of the critical considerations when installing or repairing crane rails is choosing the appropriate welding process. Among the strongest and best-tested heavy-duty options is Soldadura Aluminotermica.


But is Soldadura Aluminotermica the right choice for your crane rail project?


This guidebook will help project planners, maintenance managers, and engineers determine when and why to use this welding process, based on operating conditions such as crane speed, capacity, and usage frequency.


What Is Soldadura Aluminotermica?


Soldadura Aluminotermica is a welding process in rail wherein molten steel, which is a byproduct of chemical reaction between the aluminum powder and iron oxide, is used in joining two rail ends together. The process provides an uninterrupted and solid rail profile without mechanical joints, the most appropriate where continuity of traveling and strength are paramount.


Dorance utilizes this process widely on steel mill, port, and other high-use overhead crane installations all over Latin America.


When is Soldadura Aluminotermica the Best Option?


1. High-Speed Crane Applications (>60 m/min)


If your overhead crane has speeds higher than 60 meters per minute, mechanical connections produce impacts and vibrations that lead to crane wheels, bearings, and electrical equipment wear. In this case, welding compensates for gaps between rails and creates a smooth transition to guarantee maximum equipment life.


2. Heavy Load Capacities (≥40 Tons)


Crane systems used daily to lift more than 40 tons cause enormous stress upon the rail infrastructure. Welded rail joints created through Soldadura Aluminotermica are able to distribute such stress more than bolted joints. This reduces wear and stops cracking at critical points under loads.


3. Frequent, Continuous Use


For cranes operating around the clock, especially in steel factories or shipping terminals, durability and reduced maintenance are top priorities. The seamless rail surface provided by this welding  minimizes the chances of misalignment or joint failures that require shutdowns and repairs. The method also performs reliably in extreme temperature conditions, a common factor in industrial plants.


4. Need for Long-Term Alignment


Proper crane alignment is crucial for safe and efficient material handling. Rail joint irregularities can lead to wheel misalignment and track derailment. This welding maintains long-term geometric continuity of the rail track, significantly reducing alignment issues over time.


How We Ensure Welding Quality


At Dorance, Soldadura Aluminotermica is performed using advanced ceramic molds and preheating systems that guarantee fusion strength and joint integrity. Our team specializes in welding for both crane runways and industrial railroads, with experience executing over 800 rail welds throughout South America, including projects in Colombia, Chile, Peru, and Ecuador.


We also use this method in conjunction with engineered pads and Clips De Riel for added performance, ensuring your entire runway system meets the highest standards for industrial-grade applications.


Why Choose Us?


We are a leader in crane rail systems, known for combining engineering expertise, high-quality materials, and international standards. Here's what sets us apart:


  • Over 7,600 meters of crane rails installed using Soldadura Aluminotermica

  • Projects completed in seaports, steel mills, and cement plants

  • Turnkey services including design, installation, welding, and preventive maintenance

  • Backed by European rail manufacturers and supported by Dorance Runway Services (DRS)


Whether you need a full crane runway installation or a repair to existing infrastructure, we deliver solutions built to withstand extreme working conditions.


Choosing the right welding method can have a long-term impact on your crane system’s performance and maintenance costs. If your operations involve high speeds, heavy loads, or continuous use, Soldadura Aluminotermica is likely the ideal choice for creating a smooth, strong, and long-lasting rail system.


We offer not only the technique but also the expertise to execute it properly—ensuring safety, durability, and efficiency for every project.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Common Defects Found During Crane Rail Inspections And How To Fix Them

Crane rail inspections are very important for ensuring that overhead cranes stay safe and functional over time. Wear and tear, natural, and sometimes improper installation cause a defect over time, which definitely deteriorates the performance. Therefore, in this blog, we have detailed the most common defects observed after rail inspections, their implications, and solutions to fix them. Here at Dorance, we are professional and dedicated to excellence in ensuring your crane rail systems will perform at an optimal level. Common Crane Rail Defects 1. Rail Misalignment Rail misalignment occurs because of wrong installation, thermal expansion, and heavy loads. The misaligned rails cause unequal wheel wear as well as enhance stress on the crane components with the possibility of an operational failure. Solution: We use advanced instruments like topographic surveys for accurate rail alignment. We correctly align the rail by adjusting, high-performance grout application, and rail clips' i...
Read more

Maintenance Tips For Rail Clips & Pads In Heavy-Duty Crane Applications

Image
Heavy-duty crane operations rely on the seamless integration of rail clips and pads to ensure efficiency and safety. Over time, these components can experience wear due to intense loads, vibrations, and environmental factors. Regular maintenance not only extends their lifespan but also reduces downtime and enhances performance. Below, we discuss essential maintenance tips for these clips and pads, as well as why Dorance is the trusted choice for these crucial components. Importance of Maintaining Rail Clips and Pads Clips and pads are integral to stabilizing crane rails and minimizing vibrations. Pads provide a cushion that absorbs impact, reduces noise, and distributes load evenly, while clips secure rails, preventing displacement under heavy loads. Neglecting their maintenance can lead to misaligned rails, increased wear on crane wheels, and costly downtime. Best Practices for Inspecting Clips and Pads 1. Routine Inspections Schedule regular visual checks to identify wear, corrosion,...
Read more

10 Maintenance Tips To Extend The Life Of Your Crane Rail Clips & Pads

Image
Proper maintenance of rail clips and pads is critical to ensuring the smooth operation of overhead cranes. These components bear immense stress, playing a vital role in securing rails and reducing vibration. By following regular maintenance practices, you can enhance the longevity of your crane systems. Here are ten actionable tips to keep your clips and pads in top condition, and why Dorance is your trusted partner for crane runway solutions.   1. Regular Visual Inspections    Inspect your clips and pads frequently for signs of wear, corrosion, or misalignment. Early detection of damage prevents larger, more expensive issues. Pay special attention to areas with high stress or exposure to harsh conditions.   2. Ensure Proper Alignment    Misaligned clips can lead to uneven load distribution, causing premature wear on both the clips and pads. Regularly check and adjust the alignment to ensure a secure and balanced connection between the rail and it...
Read more