Oil & Gas Crane & Hoisting Solutions

Oil and gas projects often involve heavy machinery, large-scale components and operate under specialized environmental considerations that are either very wet, very warm, or very cold. These factors demand crane systems and hoists that can handle substantial loads while remaining efficient and reliable. Onshore operations, such as pipeline construction and refinery projects, require rugged lifting solutions that prioritize flexible usage schedules, while offshore platforms necessitate corrosion-resistant materials and compact designs.

Different environments call for specialized equipment:

• Offshore Drilling Platforms: Hoists with anti-corrosive coatings and compact footprints to manage limited deck space.
• Onshore Refineries and Pipeline Construction: Heavy-duty, mobile solutions to safely move large components across sprawling facilities.

Selecting the right hoisting systems for each environment can improve efficiency, reduce downtime and lower maintenance costs long term.

Oil and gas facilities are subject to harsh conditions, including corrosive saltwater, high heat and potential explosive vapors. Ensuring worker safety and meeting regulatory requirements are top priorities in oil and gas environments. Explosion-proof hoists, certified under relevant safety standards, offer a critical layer of protection against ignition hazards. In the United States, the National Electrical Code (NEC) defines mandatory standards for electrical equipment in hazardous areas. Choosing NEC-compliant hoists is not optional—it’s essential for safety, compliance and risk reduction.

Our Spacemaster® EX hoists are rated for use in Class I, Division 2 environments with Groups B, C and D, and Temperature Class T3 or in Class I, Division 1 environments with Groups C and D and Temperature Class T4. Class and Division rated equipment can be used in the appropriate Zone classified environment as permitted by the National Electrical Code (NEC 505.9 and NEC 505.20) and the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC C22.1).

Extreme and hazardous conditions often require specific features for safety concerns related to hazardous environments. R&M’s Spacemaster EX hazardous location hoists can be configured specifically to your application. In addition to standard features such as spark-resistant wire rope and NEMA 4 and 7 protection ratings for the control enclosure, we offer non-sparking options specifically designed for hazardous environments, including bronze-coated hooks, brass wheels, brass drop lugs on the trolley and stainless-steel wire rope.

Because R&M hoists and crane systems are so reliable and the maintenance required on our equipment is so minimal, the crane builder specified the Spacemaster EX with complete confidence. The Spacemaster EX is the hazardous location version of the industry-leading Spacemaster SX hoist. In this case study, it carries a Class I, Division 2 explosion-proof rating for groups C and D and temperature class 3. It also features non-sparking options, making it the ideal choice for the hazardous conditions.

Read the full case study: Anchorage Municipal | Light & Power | R&M Materials Handling

Market fluctuations make temporary storage, also known as mothballing, and recommissioning equipment an accepted practice in the oil and gas industry. Scheduled maintenance and careful recommissioning are crucial to extending the lifespan of your equipment.

Additionally, proper storage when the equipment is not in use is essential to maintain its functionality. Clean the hoist thoroughly, removing all dirt and debris. Inspect it for wear and damage, addressing any issues that may arise. Protect sensitive components and lubricate moving parts before storage. Secure and support the hoist and disconnect power and controls. When recommissioning, conduct a visual inspection, review documentation and compliance, clean and lubricate key components, replace worn parts and perform an electrical and control systems check, as well as operational testing.

Check with your local crane service provider for detailed information on decommissioning and recommissioning your equipment. Document the decommissioning and recommissioning processes and maintain the records for quick reference when needed.