Various Types of Crawler-Mounted Cranes
In order to be able to power a large range of machinery, industrial wheel tractors were adapted during the 1920s, by McCormick-Deering and Fordson. Like for instance, half-swing shovels and cranes were made by some companies around the engine and power train of the tractor and the wheels became replaced by crawlers.
Crawler tractors came into widespread use in the 1930s. Immediately after, many manufacturers began making attachments for them, such as a range of lifting equipment devices.
Side-mounted booms for example, were utilized primarily for pipe-laying at first and the machine got the nickname "pipelayer." These kinds of machinery are often utilized these days for attending to cleaning up railroad derailments. Because of their size, compact design and mobility, in addition to outstanding lifting capacity, these equipments are ideal for this use. As well, swing booms that mounted on top of the engine compartment also became available.
LIke a crawler tractor, crawler cranes travel on crawler tracks. Due to their intense weight, these machines do not move very fast. Typically, the crane could be controlled by 2 or more cable operated drums and is powered by one engine. The crawler cranes are available with a telescopic arm or a lattice boom that can be extended easily utilizing hydraulics. The lattice boom must 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 built and broken down on location. They have to be transported by truck every time they are relocated. These tower cranes are exceptionally tall. They enable construction crews to transport heavy steel or concrete building parts to the tops of tall buildings. Tower cranes utilize a hydraulic system in order to push each and every new crane part up into place and hence, are self-erecting.