Different Types of Crawler-Mounted Cranes
In order to be able to power a huge range of machines, industrial wheel tractors were modified during the 1920s, by Fordson and McCormick-Deering. For instance, half-swing cranes and shovels were manufactured by several companies around the engine and power train of the tractor and the wheels became replaced by crawlers.
During the 1930s, crawler tractors came into widespread use. Immediately after, numerous manufacturers started making attachments for them, including a variety of lifting equipment devices.
For instance, side-mounted booms were primarily used for pipe-laying where it gained its nickname the "pipelayer." These types of machines are now often utilized for attending to cleaning up railroad derailments. Due to their size, compact design and mobility, as well as exceptional lifting capacity, these types of machines are ideal for this application. Furthermore, swing booms which mounted on top of the engine compartment also became available.
Similar to a crawler tractor, crawler cranes travel on crawler tracks. Due to their intense weight, these machinery do not move really fast. Normally, the crane is powered by one engine and may be controlled by 2 or more cable operated drums. The crawler cranes come equipped with a lattice boom or a telescopic arm which could be extended easily using hydraulics. The lattice boom must be assembled manually by adding many sections.
Tower Cranes
Normally found in big construction projects, tower cranes are required to be erected and broken down on location. They need to be transported by truck each time they are relocated. These tower cranes are exceptionally tall. They enable construction crews to transport concrete building components or heavy steel to the tops of tall buildings. Tower cranes use a hydraulic system to push each new crane part up into place and thus, are self-erecting.