Different Types of Crawler-Mounted Cranes
Industrial wheel tractors during the 1920s, such as those built by McCormick-Deering and Fordson were rapidly modified in order to be able to power a large variety of machinery. For instance, half-swing shovels and cranes were manufactured by some companies around the tractor's engine and power train and the wheels became replaced by crawlers.
Throughout the 1930s, crawler tractors came into widespread use. Soon after, many manufacturers began making attachments for them, like for instance various lifting equipment devices.
For instance, side-mounted booms were primarily utilized for pipe-laying where it gained its nickname the "pipelayer." These kinds of machinery are usually utilized nowadays for attending to cleaning up railroad derailments. Due to their mobility, size and compact design, along with exceptional lifting capacity, these types of machines are ideal for this use. Moreover, swing booms that mounted on top of the engine compartment became available also.
LIke a crawler tractor, crawler cranes travel on crawler tracks. Because of their intense weight, these machines do not move very fast. Usually, the crane is powered by one engine and may be controlled by 2 or more cable operated drums. The crawler cranes are available with a lattice boom or a telescopic arm that is easy to extend by utilizing hydraulics. The lattice boom should be assembled by hand by adding multiple sections.
Tower Cranes
Tower cranes are the ones found in large construction projects. These kinds of cranes are necessary to be erected and broken down on location. They have to be transported by truck every time they are relocated. These tower cranes are exceptionally tall. They allow construction crews to move heavy steel or concrete building parts to the tops of tall buildings. Tower cranes use a hydraulic system to push every new crane section up into place and thus, are self-erecting.