Tele Radio Controls Strong Machines

A Brazilian overhead crane manufacturer is using a remote control system from Tele Radio to operate two electric overhead travelling (EOT) cranes simultaneously.

Strong Machines, which is located in Caxias do Sul, has a pair of 5-ton capacity cranes that are frequently operated in tandem to lift runways and other long components. It needed wireless control that would give operators complete freedom of movement, without compromising precision — and Tele Radio’s Tiger product was the perfect solution.

Tandem crane operations present risks, explained Markus Grallert, director at Strong Machines. Further, cranes operating in parallel must move in perfect unison. When handling long or heavy loads, even small misalignments can cause dangerous tension imbalances or equipment damage.

Tele Radio’s Tiger remote control system is used to simultaneously control two electric overhead travelling (EOT) cranes at Strong Machines in Brazil.

Grallert added: “Our partnership with Tele Radio allows us to monitor our tandem operations at all times.”

Laercio Neves, executive director at Tele Radio, said: “When handling long pieces, operating two cranes in tandem helps keep the load balanced. Using the Tiger remote control system increases safety because it continuously monitors the limit-switch sensors and ensures that both cranes stop simultaneously whenever a sensor is activated. This coordination reduces the risk of uneven lifting or sudden load shifts.”

The two-speed Tiger T11-5 transmitter allows operators to adjust movement speed by varying the pressure applied to control buttons — essential for smooth, accurate load handling. The cranes move forward, backward, or sideways. The emergency stop, which is PLd/SIL3-certified, instantly halts operations when triggered. In tandem mode, a single transmitter controls both cranes simultaneously. Operators switch between individual and synchronised control depending on the task at hand.

One operator can control both cranes from any optimal vantage point.

Tele Radio’s Neves summarised six clear advantages of the new control system:

• Flexibility: one operator controls both cranes from any optimal vantage point.
• Two-speed control: precise adjustment of crane movement speeds.
• Certification: PLd/SIL3-certified emergency stop ensures immediate shutdown.
• Synchronisation: continuous communication between cranes ensures perfect alignment.
• Installation: minimal modifications required to existing equipment.
• Support: Tele Radio Brazil provides full on-site operator training and assistance.

Installation was completed quickly and with minimal disruption, which was essential for maintaining production schedules. Tele Radio provided on-site training and ongoing technical support, ensuring the end user could operate the system effectively from day one.

Local availability of spare parts, in-house training of personnel, and agility in supply and service, were major benefits of sourcing the remote control solution from Tele Radio. The company’s Brazil operation has local inventory and a technical team that is able to support customers with products and service. Quick access to replacement parts and technical training is available as required.

Using the Tiger remote control system increases safety.

Strong Machines’ Grallert added: “Tele Radio proved more than a supplier — they became a strategic partner that understands our challenges, supports us with training, and delivers a solution that perfectly matches our product.”