Various Types of Crawler-Mounted Cranes
Industrial wheel tractors during the 1920s, like those manufactured by McCormick-Deering and Fordson were quickly adapted in order to be able to power a large variety of machinery. 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.
Crawler tractors came into widespread use in the 1930s. Immediately after, numerous manufacturers began making attachments for them, like for example various lifting machine devices.
Side-mounted booms for instance, were utilized mainly for pipe-laying at first and the machine got the nickname "pipelayer." These equipments are presently often utilized for attending to cleaning up railroad derailments. Because of their compact design, mobility and size, along with outstanding lifting capacity, these kinds of equipments are great for this use. In addition, swing booms which mounted on top of the engine compartment also became available.
Similar to a crawler tractor, crawler cranes travel on crawler tracks. Because of their intense weight, these machinery do not move very fast. Typically, 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 telescopic arm or a lattice boom which is easy to extend by utilizing hydraulics. The lattice boom must be assembled by hand by adding multiple sections.
Tower Cranes
Normally found in big construction projects, tower cranes are required to be built and broken down on location. They need to be transported by truck each time they are relocated. These tower cranes are exceptionally tall. They allow 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 every new crane part up into position and hence, are self-erecting.