Old Bucyrus-Erie and American Crane Plus: A Look into the History and Operations

[MikePhua]

Introduction
Bucyrus-Erie and American Crane are two iconic names in the crane manufacturing industry. Both companies have played significant roles in shaping the heavy equipment sector, particularly in the construction and mining industries. This article delves into the history, evolution, and unique features of these brands, as discussed in the forum.
Bucyrus-Erie: A Legacy of Heavy Equipment Innovation
Bucyrus-Erie, founded in the late 1800s, became a leading manufacturer of mining equipment and cranes. The company is known for its large and powerful machines, which were used in a variety of demanding applications, including mining, construction, and railroad work. Some key points about Bucyrus-Erie machinery include:

• Early Innovations
  Bucyrus-Erie’s contribution to the development of mining equipment was groundbreaking. The company designed large draglines, shovels, and cranes that were capable of handling heavy workloads, especially in mining operations. The machines produced by Bucyrus-Erie were known for their durability and power.
  
• Iconic Models
  One of the most well-known Bucyrus-Erie machines is the Bucyrus-Erie 22B crane, which was often used in the construction of large structures like dams, bridges, and industrial facilities. The 22B, along with other similar models, set the standard for industrial cranes for many years.
  
• Bucyrus-Erie’s Merger and Legacy
  In 1999, Bucyrus-Erie merged with Bucyrus International, which later became part of Caterpillar in 2011. Despite the merger, Bucyrus-Erie’s legacy in the crane and mining industry continues to influence modern crane designs.
  

American Crane Plus: A Strong Contender in the Crane Manufacturing Industry
American Crane Plus is another notable company in the crane manufacturing industry. Though not as old as Bucyrus-Erie, American Crane Plus has made significant strides in developing cranes that combine strength, precision, and versatility. Some key highlights about American Crane Plus include:

• High-Quality Manufacturing
  Known for producing equipment that can handle high-stress tasks, American Crane Plus focuses on quality and precision. Their machines are designed for use in tough environments such as construction sites, power plants, and industrial facilities.
  
• Specialized Equipment
  American Crane Plus also specializes in customized cranes and lifting equipment, ensuring that they meet the specific requirements of different industries. The ability to adapt to various operational needs has made them a preferred choice for heavy-duty operations.
  
• Adoption of New Technology
  The company has integrated modern technological advancements into their designs, making their cranes not only powerful but also more efficient and user-friendly. Features such as digital controls, remote operation, and real-time diagnostics are becoming more common in their newer models.
  

Comparison of Bucyrus-Erie and American Crane Plus
While Bucyrus-Erie is known for its legacy and historical dominance in the mining and crane manufacturing industry, American Crane Plus is recognized for its modern, innovative approach. The discussion thread highlights several differences and similarities between the two brands:

• Durability vs. Modern Features
  Bucyrus-Erie machines, especially older models, are often praised for their robustness and durability, having been built to last for many decades. On the other hand, American Crane Plus has focused more on incorporating modern technology into their machines, offering features that improve performance, safety, and ease of operation.
  
• Application Focus
  Bucyrus-Erie’s equipment was mainly focused on large-scale mining operations and heavy-duty construction projects, whereas American Crane Plus serves a wider variety of industries, offering equipment suited for power plants, construction, and specialized industrial applications.
  

Challenges in Maintaining Older Machines
One important aspect discussed is the challenge of maintaining and restoring older Bucyrus-Erie and American Crane Plus machines. Many of these machines, particularly those from Bucyrus-Erie, are no longer in production, and parts can be hard to find. Operators and collectors often have to rely on custom-built components or second-hand parts for repairs. Some key challenges include:

• Parts Availability
  Finding original parts for older machines can be difficult, and operators often need to source aftermarket parts or have components custom-manufactured, which can increase costs.
  
• Technical Expertise
  Maintaining older cranes requires specialized knowledge, and not all mechanics are familiar with the technologies and components of these older machines. This can make repairs and maintenance more expensive and time-consuming.
  
• Upgrading Older Models
  Some operators choose to upgrade older Bucyrus-Erie or American Crane Plus machines with modern components and technology. This can help extend the life of the equipment, but it requires significant investment and expertise.
  

Conclusion
Both Bucyrus-Erie and American Crane Plus have left a lasting mark on the crane manufacturing industry. Bucyrus-Erie is revered for its historical importance and legacy, particularly in mining and large construction operations, while American Crane Plus has evolved to meet the needs of modern industries with an emphasis on technology and precision. Despite the challenges of maintaining older machines, both companies have contributed valuable innovations to the crane sector, ensuring their continued influence in the industry.