Different Types of Crawler-Mounted Cranes
Industrial wheel tractors during the 1920s, like those manufactured by Fordson and McCormick-Deering were quickly modified in order to be able to power a large variety of machinery. Like for instance, half-swing shovels and cranes were manufactured by some companies around the engine and power train of the tractor and the wheels became replaced by crawlers.
In the 1930s, crawler tractors came into widespread use. Soon after, many manufacturers started making attachments for them, including a variety of lifting equipment devices.
Side-mounted booms for instance, were utilized mainly for pipe-laying at first and the machinery got the nickname "pipelayer." These kinds of machines are presently usually used for attending to cleaning up railroad derailments. Due to their size, compact design and mobility, as well as exceptional lifting capacity, these kinds of equipments are ideal for this use. As well, swing booms which mounted on top of the engine compartment became available too.
LIke a crawler tractor, crawler cranes travel on crawler tracks. Because of their intense weight, these equipments do not move very fast. Typically, the crane is powered by one engine and could be controlled by 2 or more cable operated drums. The crawler cranes are available with a telescopic arm or a lattice boom which is easy to extend by utilizing hydraulics. The lattice boom should be assembled by hand by adding multiple sections.
Tower Cranes
Tower cranes are those found in large construction projects. These types of cranes are essential to be erected and broken down on location. They should be transported by truck every time they are relocated. These tower cranes are very tall. They enable construction crews to move concrete building components or heavy steel to the tops of tall buildings. Tower cranes use a hydraulic system to be able to push each new crane part up into place and therefore, are self-erecting.