Engineering Industry – Precision Power & Automation for Innovative Projects
Modern engineering projects span many sectors—from manufacturing and processing plants to water treatment, infrastructure and resource development. Regardless of application, they share a common thread: the need for reliable, efficient power and motion control. Crossman Automation has spent more than half a century designing and supplying such systems for engineering firms across Western Canada and around the globe. As an OEM manufacturer and distributor based in Edmonton, we provide engineered designs, manufacturing, testing, support and training for industrial automation projects. Our client list includes engineering consultants and EPCs, alongside oil companies, pump companies and industrial facilities. By building long‑term relationships and understanding each project’s unique demands, we help engineers deliver safe, efficient, cost‑effective systems to their customers.
Motors: The Foundation of Automation
Motors are the linchpin of industrial automation. They transform electrical energy into controlled mechanical movement and are responsible for the consistent, repeatable actions required in assembly lines, packaging equipment and material‑handling systems. From pumps, compressors and conveyors to machine tools and robotic arms, motors provide the essential consistency and efficiency that allow manufacturers to scale production while maintaining quality. Engineers specify different types—AC induction, DC, servo, stepper—depending on the performance requirements of the system. AC motors, for example, are workhorses that power pumps, compressors, conveyors, crushers and mixers, delivering robust performance with low maintenance. DC motors offer controllable speed and torque; servo motors provide precise positioning; and stepper motors deliver defined, incremental movements. Selecting the right motor involves considering load demands, duty cycles, environmental conditions and power supply compatibility—all areas where Crossman provides expert guidance.
Engineered for Harsh Industrial Environments
Engineering projects often involve challenging conditions: dust, moisture, vibration, temperature extremes and corrosive atmospheres. The motors and drives we supply are built to withstand these environments. Our crusher‑duty and severe‑duty motors feature all cast‑iron construction, corrosion‑resistant coatings, shaft slingers, stainless steel hardware and regreasable bearings. They meet IP55/IP56 ingress protection and use class F insulation, allowing them to operate reliably in dusty, dirty, wet or high‑vibration environments. High starting torque (NEMA Design A) and service factors up to 1.25 enable these motors to start heavy loads and handle overloads without overheating. For sectors like mining, pulp & paper or heavy manufacturing, such features are essential to long‑term reliability. Crossman supplies a full range of horsepower and frame sizes—from fractional HP motors for precise actuation to 500 HP units for large crushers or grinders—with both NEMA and IEC configurations available.
Intelligent Variable‑Frequency Drives (VFDs)
Variable‑frequency drives regulate motor speed and torque, delivering flexibility and significant energy savings. They allow engineers to fine‑tune conveyor and pump speeds to match process demands, reducing power consumption and equipment strain during start‑up and slow‑down. By synchronizing motor speed with material flow, VFDs reduce energy use and operational costs and extend the life of belts, pulleys and bearings by ensuring smooth acceleration and deceleration. They also give operators the ability to adapt quickly to varying production rates and material properties. Reduced noise during start‑ups and shut‑downs adds to workplace comfort and safety. While the initial investment is higher, variable‑speed conveyors and process equipment pay for themselves through lower energy bills, reduced wear, improved throughput and greater flexibility. Crossman integrates Danfoss, Vacon and other drives into engineered panels with proper cooling, filtration and protective coatings, ensuring reliable operation in harsh environments. We also specify inverter‑duty motors and protective components like insulated bearings and grounding rings to prevent VFD‑induced damage.
Power Transmission and Motion Control
Beyond motors and drives, engineered systems require gear reducers, couplings, torque limiters, clutches and brakes to transfer power and control movement. Crossman supplies gearboxes and couplings from industry leaders, matched to motor horsepower and application torque. Our partnership with Nexen gives engineers access to high‑performance clutches, brakes and torque limiters with simple designs and corrosion‑resistant finishes. Air‑engaged units deliver faster response, higher torque and longer life than conventional electric clutches and brakes, while consuming less energy. Torque limiters protect expensive equipment by disengaging the drive during overloads, preventing damage to gearboxes, conveyors and process machinery. For precise positioning tasks—such as indexing conveyors or rotary tables—servo brakes and tooth clutches deliver zero‑backlash engagement and repeatable accuracy. We integrate these components into complete, turnkey assemblies that fit seamlessly into your machine design.
Collaboration with Engineering Firms
Crossman’s engineering support goes far beyond component supply. We partner with consulting engineers, EPC firms and OEMs to develop custom automation solutions. Our team reviews project specifications thoroughly, develops engineered designs, builds panels, and provides testing, field training and ongoing support. Whether it’s a pump station requiring explosion‑proof motors and soft‑starter panels or an automated packaging line with washdown‑duty equipment and advanced motion control, we work with you from concept to completion. For multi‑disciplinary projects, we coordinate electrical, mechanical and control aspects to ensure all components work together harmoniously. Our long‑standing relationships with engineering firms are built on open communication, technical expertise and commitment to client success.
Strong Partnerships & Wide Product Range
To support varied engineering applications, Crossman partners with leading manufacturers:
U.S. Motors (Nidec): CORRO‑DUTY and crusher‑duty motors featuring corrosion‑resistant coatings, dust‑exclusion slingers and premium efficiency.
Brook Crompton, WEG, Parkhaven and Worldwide Electric: Extensive ranges of NEMA and IEC motors, including explosion‑proof, TEFC, washdown‑duty and high‑efficiency models.
Danfoss and Vacon: A comprehensive portfolio of VFDs, soft starters, harmonic filters and related accessories.
Nexen: Clutches, brakes, torque limiters and tension‑control systems, including corrosion‑resistant models for washdown environments.
Because we stock a diverse inventory and maintain close ties with these suppliers, we can deliver components quickly and configure them to match your project’s specifications. We also keep up with the latest advances—such as IoT‑enabled motors and drives—so you can benefit from predictive maintenance and data analytics.
Why Choose Crossman Automation?
Experience & reliability: Over 50 years of serving engineering firms and industrial clients.
One‑stop shop: Motors, drives, gearboxes, clutches and brakes from top manufacturers, all engineered to work together.
Tailored solutions: Detailed design review, panel fabrication, testing and field training to ensure your project’s success.
Energy & cost savings: High‑efficiency motors and VFDs reduce energy consumption and extend equipment life.
Local support: Based in Edmonton, we provide prompt service, inventory and training for projects across Alberta and British Columbia.
Let’s Power Your Next Project
If you’re planning an automation upgrade, designing a new process line or specifying rotating equipment for a complex project, Crossman Automation is ready to help. We’ll work with your engineers to understand performance requirements, environmental constraints and budget goals. Then we’ll propose a solution—spanning motors, drives, gear reducers, clutches and controls—tailored to your application. Contact us today to learn how Crossman’s engineering expertise and integrated solutions can enhance efficiency, reliability and safety on your next project.