What Is a Crawler Crane? A Quick Guide

What Is a Crawler Crane? A Quick Guide

As metropolitan areas boom in this country, the crane market continues to grow. Valued at $19 billion in 2018, experts expect the crane market to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of six percent through 2025. Global shipments could exceed 35 thousand units by 2025.

Cranes serve various purposes depending upon the construction project. Different types of cranes are used to transport materials, haul timber, and even make home deliveries. And among the most popular types of construction cranes is the crawler crane.

Here’s a look at everything you need to know about crawler cranes.

What Is a Crawler Crane?

This distinguishing characteristic of a crawler crane is the tracks it’s mounted on. That’s where the name “crawler” comes from. The tracks provide the crane with mobility and stability, without the need for outriggers.

These crane types are valuable material load lifters and come in handy when working in smaller areas. Crawler cranes sport a wide range of lifting capabilities and often come with a lattice boom, which has an optional extension. The Carbody connects the deck, which can rotate 360 degrees, to the crawler assemblies.

Crawler cranes are sometimes referred to as “pick and carry” cranes. This nickname comes from the machine’s ability to lift and relocate loads to other worksites. They offer strength and stability over long distances, making them ideal for heavy-lifting applications.

Operators often have a spacious and quiet cab from which to work. The cabs feature excellent visibility.

Advantages of a Crawler Crane

A crawler crane can move large and heavy loads with ease. These cranes stand out as an efficient option for large-scale construction projects. This versatile machine also sports a wire rope with a grapple, hook, or other attachment at the end of the boom.

Perhaps the main advantage of a crawler crane is its mobility. These machines can move about a worksite and perform lifts. They are ideal for moving building materials, heavy-duty foundation jobs, and much more.

The crawler tracks allow the crane to work on softer surfaces since its weight is evenly distributed along the treads.

Drawbacks

The main downside of the crawler crane is its size. These machines usually need to be assembled at a given construction site. But once built, they can handle almost any load.

While these crane types are excellent on rough terrain, they cannot be maneuvered on regular roads. If you’re using a crawler crane for multiple job sites, it will have to be dismantled and transported with trucks. Sometimes, a crawler crane needs an assist crane for unloading at certain jobs.

Crane Solutions and More

HIAB USA stands as an unquestioned leader among load-handling equipment providers and has been for 75 years. Be it a crawler crane or something else, HIAB knows the safe and efficient machinery you need to help build a better world.

Check out our website for more on cranes and crane safety.

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What Are Aerial Cranes and What Are They Used For?

What Are Aerial Cranes and What Are They Used For?

Aerial cranes allow simultaneous load, greater accessibility, and affordable lifting operation. Its efficiency increases its demand on the market. Thanks to its function, it’s no surprise that the market size for aerial cranes will rise.

Construction, infrastructure, and manufacturing are the common sectors that use aerial cranes. If you live in the city, you may have seen an aerial crane or two on your commute to work.

But how do they work? Can you use this to haul your equipment and shipments? Continue this guide to aerial cranes to learn more.

What Are Aerial Cranes?

Aerial cranes refer to helicopters used to lift and transport heavy loads. These cranes utilize hoist systems, load suspension systems, nets, and slings.

The military first used the helicopter for heavy lifting, carrying 3,000 pounds. However, the demand allowed manufacturers to make cranes that lift up to 40,000 pounds. It makes it the most preferred system of utility and construction companies.

Different Uses of Aerial Cranes

Aerial cranes are some of the most flexible hauling operators you can use. It can work in narrower spaces, reach remote areas, and brave different weather conditions. The use of an aerial crane ensures an accurate, fast, and safe operation.

Here are some of the following uses of helicopter cranes.

1. Carrying Machinery and Materials

Using aerial cranes is ideal for carrying construction machinery and materials. You don’t need to set it up, unlike ground cranes. Other crane types take time to build and are more expensive to operate.

Aerial cranes can transport steel, concrete, and other construction materials all at once. It allows you to ship cargo on time, too. Sky cranes prevent long travel by land and many changeovers, saving time and money.

Your lifting company provides the appropriate aerial crane to perform the work. Factors to consider are the load line, the hook-up, and the protection device. It includes the cables and slings, too.

2. For Utility Construction Activities

You can use aerial cranes to support different utility construction activities. It covers water systems, power lines, and pipeline construction. With its lifting capability, it’s easier and faster to transport heavy materials.

An aerial crane makes moving and placing large hydro systems, water, and septic tanks easier. It makes the process more efficient. Use a helicopter crane to plant pipe sections for power line construction, too.

Shipping pipelines by land can lead to late operation and extra costs. However, you can prevent all these with aerial cranes. It decreases transport duration, labor, and expenses.

3. For Forestry Operations

An aerial crane is a crucial piece of equipment for forestry operations. It prevents you from logging trees to access unreachable areas. Aerial cranes help you in the restoration and improvement of natural habitats.

You can use aerials cranes to plant root wads into streams for protection. It promotes stabilization to the water forms and perfect habitat for creatures. The method allows a safe and sustainable nature restoration.

Many fallers use aerial cranes to log trees. It holds the cut stems of trees and pulls them up until its wood breaks. Then, the pilot carries the logs to the drop-off area.

Discovering Aerial Cranes and Its Uses

An aerial crane allows an increased load mass, accessibility, and mobility. It promotes a safer, faster, and more convenient system to carry loads. With this, invest in buying aerial cranes for better performance.

If you want to learn more about construction and forestry equipment, don’t stop here. Our article on the types of construction cranes is popular with our other readers.

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How Do Cranes Get Built on Skyscrapers?

How Do Cranes Get Built on Skyscrapers?

New York is famous for its skyscrapers, and the 10 tallest NYC buildings all stand over 1,000 feet.

Cranes are one of the most important components of building skyscrapers, but you may find yourself wondering “how do cranes get built?”. For tall buildings such as skyscrapers, standard cranes don’t quite cut it.

Other types of cranes, such as knuckle boom cranes, are far more versatile. They’re also easier to set up but are limited in ways tower cranes are not (i.e. size and load capacity).

This crane building guide gives an overview of how tower cranes are built on top of skyscrapers.

How do Cranes Get Built on Top of Skyscrapers?

Cranes have several purposes such as forestry, railway construction, and waste management. The place they are most commonly seen, however, is in built-up urban areas.

There are specific types of cranes and methods for building skyscrapers. There are three main methods that make today’s tallest buildings possible.

External Climbing

This involves building a crane using its own hoisting power. The base is initially secured in a concrete slab in the ground, and it is then assembled using smaller mobile cranes. It stays at this point until the building reaches about 180 feet in height.

Steel collars are then used to attach the crane to the outside of the building. A special climbing section allows workers to attach new segments. This is a sheath on the outside of the crane tower that raises and supports the arm above the highest vertebra.

A new tower segment is then placed in the sheath where workers can secure it properly. This process is repeated roughly every 180 feet to fully construct the building.

This is the most common method, as it allows construction to continue inside the building while the external structure is still being completed. Removing parts is also a simpler process as the crane can move back down on the outside of the bending and secure itself to the ground anchor.

Internal Climbing

Internal climbing involves the crane being in the center and constructing the building around itself.

A hydraulic cylinder sits at the base of the crane and allows it to be raised whenever needed. Steel beams are then slid beneath it to keep it securely placed.

For this method, the crane needs to be raised roughly every 100 feet.

Skycrane

This third method is somewhat different from the other two methods of crane building. A heavy-lift helicopter flies the crane, piece by piece, to the top of the construction site.

There are some notable downsides to this:

• Individual segments can weigh anywhere between 3,000 and 20,000 pounds
• It can be very expensive
• Flying a load-bearing helicopter over populated areas is logistically difficult

Of these three methods, this is the least common due to these downsides.

What Else Should You Know About Cranes?

There are a lot of questions you could ask. How do cranes get built? What are the most common uses? How much weight can cranes support?

Our blogs cover these questions and more crane-building tips.

Cranes used for building skyscrapers are just one of many types. For an explanation of the other common types of cranes commonly used in construction take a look at our guide here.

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A Quick Guide to the Different Types of Tower Cranes

A Quick Guide to the Different Types of Tower Cranes

Tower cranes have always been one of the most common sights on any city skyline. Toronto is the North American city with the most cranes, and after a slight dip in 2020, we are beginning to see more cranes in our cities again.

From a distance, it might seem like all these huge, tall cranes are very similar. However, there are many different types of tower cranes, and each kind has a slightly different function. Read our tower cranes guide to find out more about these fascinating pieces of machinery.

Luffing Jib Tower Crane

These types of cranes are often used in urban spaces, where there is not enough clearance for the jib to fully rotate. This is due to the proximity of existing buildings.

The crane operator can lower or raise a luffing jib to swing the crane at a smaller radius, thus taking up less space. Unlike a conventional tower crane, it also does not use a trolley. There are many benefits to this type of tower crane. However, as it is a more complex piece of machinery, it is more expensive.

Self-Erecting Types of Tower Cranes

One of the most impressive tower crane types is the self-erecting crane. These structures can completely assemble themselves onsite without the need for a second crane to be involved in the assembly process.

There are clear advantages here in terms of equipment costs and also set-up time. Most self-erecting cranes are remote-controlled from the ground, although some do have an operator cab in the jib. These types of tower cranes are usually free-standing. This means that they can be moved around the job site.

A further benefit to these types of tower cranes is that they can work at multiple heights without the need for reconfiguration. This is because they feature a telescoping tower.

Hammerhead Crane

This is the most common type of crane configuration among types of tower cranes. The vertical tower and long horizontal jib are omnipresent on our city skylines these days. There is a counterweight at one end of the jib, while the other end extends over the work site horizontally.

The trolley can travel along the whole length of the jib, and this is the part that contains the lifting cable. This means that the crane can lift heavy loads anywhere within the radius of the jib.

There is a cab for the operator at the point where the jib meets the tower. These cranes need a second crane to assemble and disassemble them. It is usually possible to insert or remove sections from the tower to change the height of the crane.

Tower Crane Tips

If you are looking to buy a tower crane, it’s important that you choose one that is most suited to the needs of the specific site it will be operating on.

There are so many different types of tower cranes to choose from, but there are plenty more informative articles on the blog to help you make the right decision for your business.

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How to Choose the Right Crane Construction Equipment

How to Choose the Right Crane Construction Equipment

Do you manage a construction project? Are you looking to buy construction equipment? Chances are you need crane construction equipment.

With so many types of cranes, which is the right one for your project? You must find one that meets your needs.

Using the right crane can improve productivity and help promote safety. Safety should be a top priority as you want to prevent injuries involving cranes.

This guide provides information to help you choose the right crane construction equipment. Read on to learn how to choose a crane for your construction project.

Know the Weight and Size of the Load

One of the first things you should consider is the weight and size of the load that needs to be lifted or moved. This information will help you select a crane with the required lifting capacity. It’ll also help you find the necessary rigging accessories like hooks and slings.

You’ll need a crane that has a suitable lifting capacity to lift the load. If you use a high-capacity crane for a small load, it might lead to a loss of labor and money. Using a low-capacity crane can damage the load or lead to an accident.

Make sure to review load charts. Crane manufacturers have this information on hand. It can provide you with information about the load capacity features of the crane.

It’s important to consider the type of load you’re going to lift. If you’re going to lift oddly-shaped loads, it’s best to use special rigging equipment. No matter the type of load being lifted, you must follow crane operation safety tips.

Understand Lift Height and Horizontal Distance

The second factor to consider is the lift height. How high does the loading material need to go? This is a factor you must consider for multi-storied construction projects.

It’ll help you determine what’s the optimal length of the crane’s boom. For a vertical construction project, you’ll need a crane with a longer boom length.

To lift a load to a higher height, you might need a lattice boom crawler crane. This type of crane can reach lift heights of up to 700 feet.

For a project that has a lower height requirement, you might need to use a hydraulic truck crane. It uses a hydraulic mechanism to elongate and refract a boom that can reach up to 200 feet.

You’ll also need to consider the horizontal moving distance. Factors related to the moving distance include counterweight and support structure.

Assess the On-Site Terrain

All types of cranes need a support structure to hold them firmly to the ground. It’s ideal to choose a suitable crane that you operate on the construction site.

If the site isn’t ideal for a big crane, you might need to use a knuckle boom crane. It’s great for fixed spaces. You can hire a crane operator to work this type of crane.

Choosing Crane Construction Equipment

Now that you know how to choose a crane, you can choose the right one for your construction project. You need to have the right crane construction equipment for the job. Make sure to explore the rest of our blog to continue reading more articles about cranes.

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What Are Self Erecting Tower Cranes?

What Are Self Erecting Tower Cranes?

Self-erecting tower cranes are marvels that have allowed construction teams to do more with less space for a number of years. Using a combination of hydraulics, steel, and good old-fashioned physics principles, these vital components of complex construction jobs keep workers safe while quite literally pushing our world to new heights.

In this article, we’ll be talking specifically about what self-erecting tower cranes are, along with how they work, how they’re applied, and whom they help most. Let’s start building!

Why We Need Them

Our world is ever-growing, ever-increasing in population. While the problems of overpopulation can seem overexaggerated to some degree, the reality is that tools such as the self-erecting tower crane help us better deal with a world that is constantly expanding with higher numbers of people.

Meanwhile, the earth itself is the same size it has always been. Tower cranes help us build up instead of out, so we can accommodate larger numbers of people. We do this through building more residences as well as businesses to accommodate those individuals with necessary goods and services.

How They Work

Using our skies to better facilitate the growth in population isn’t magic. It’s good old-fashioned physics, albeit with the aid of some modern technologies. If looking for self-erecting tower crane tips, you must first understand how they work.

Such cranes incorporate hydraulics, trolley systems, concrete foundations, counterbalancing weight, and steel sections to build a crane that is as expandable and retractable as it needs to be. Here’s how it works.

The tower crane is stabilzed in a concrete foundation with steel rebar. This is done about 30 days prior to the rest of the crane, giving the foundation time to be settled and secure. And if done improperly, it’s a step that can paralyze the entire project.

From there, steel tresses are added, one on top of the other, to produce the initial crane height.

That initial height varies but is topped off with a slewing unit, cathead, jib, and counter jib that are able to lift, pull, and balance new tresses as necessary. A hydraulic-powered climbing tray helps to raise or lower the crane as new sections are added or removed to adjust the overall height, while the counter jib is balanced with concrete slabs to keep the crane secure as new tresses are added to the jib and lifted to the desired height.

Whom They Help and What to Look For

A self-erecting tower crane can guide the construction process as it extends up into the sky. This helps multiple segments of society, from commercial real estate to business to multi-family housing. The crane quietly yet powerfully helps us to do more with less space, adding to quality of life in the process.

So, what does one look for in a self-erecting tower crane rental or when searching for a “self-erecting tower crane near me”? Start with an emphasis on safety first and foremost. Choose companies with great safety records.

Check their standing with the Better Business Bureau. Make sure they’re committed to crane safety principles. While setup of a self-erecting tower crane sounds automatic, the prep work in establishing these cranes is vital.

Self Erecting Tower Cranes Emphasize Safety

You can use self-erecting tower cranes whenever you have a job that requires aerial construction or when expanding on an existing multi-level building. Having an understanding of how these cranes work and operate should give you peace of mind throughout the process. If you’re in the market for one, you can start by searching for a reputable dealer.

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Top Crane Uses That You Probably Never Knew About

Top Crane Uses That You Probably Never Knew About

When you think of a crane, you might picture a construction crane. This type of machine isn’t limited to construction cranes. There’s a wide range of industries that use a crane.

Cranes are an integral part of activities that involve lifting. Cranes can lift a heavy load from a truck bed onto a flat platform, or vice-versa. Cranes are great for moving materials throughout a warehouse.

Do you want to learn about the different crane uses? Read on to learn about the top crane uses in this crane guide.

Overhead Cranes

An overhead crane enables users to lower, lift or move loads with ease. This type of crane has high lifting capabilities for load movement.

An operator can control an overhead crane manually or through wireless controls. It can also be controlled via a wired pendant station. The station guides the crane’s travel.

What are the benefits of using an overhead crane? It offers increased safety. An overhead crane doesn’t carry the risk that forklifts come with.

Forklifts can drop a load due to imprecise stacking. This can increase the risk of an accident. Overhead crane operators can promote safety by following safety tips.

Mobile Cranes

Mobile cranes allow for the easy transportation of loads to a site. These cranes are mounted on a mobile platform. Most are mounted on a wheeled truck.

Mobile cranes often operate a boom. The boom has a hook that’s suspended by sheaves and wire rope. An engine operates the wire ropes.

Their power allows them to lift heavy objects. These cranes can access sites that other cranes might not be able to access. These are some of the crane benefits that mobile cranes offer.

Telescopic Cranes

A telescopic crane is a type of heavy crane that’s perfect for transporting and moving objects from one place to another. This crane is equipped with height adjustments. This helps to solve any issues related to height.

It uses a hydraulic mechanism to elongate and refract the motion of the boom. The boom consists of several tubes. These tubes are fitted next to each other.

The tubes help to increase the crane’s gross hauling height. They also help to raise and drop objects.

Grapple Cranes

Grapple cranes are the ones you often see harvesting trees in the forest. These are cranes that you might also see at junkyards or landfills. The average American generates 4.9 pounds of garbage per day, so grapple cranes are built to last.

Grapple cranes are versatile and offer precise control. They also improve efficiency. These are some of the crane advantages it offers.

These Are Some of the Most Common Crane Uses

A crane is an indispensable machine. As you read, crane uses vary across different industries. Cranes are the perfect tools for the heavy lifting and moving of objects.

Make sure to explore the rest of our blog to continue reading more articles about cranes. You’ll learn something new.

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How to Build a Crane

How to Build a Crane

Forecasts show that the global crane and hoist market could reach $4.87 billion by 2028.

Building a crane is not the most complicated process, but it is essential that there are no mistakes. Any oversights in the construction of a crane could result in it collapsing, causing huge amounts of damage.

If you’re interested in the basics of how to build a crane, keep reading.

1. Establish the Location

Making sure the crane is in the most suitable spot is essential. It needs to be in an open space with plenty of room to move, and you should take wind patterns into consideration.

There are also strict placement rules that you must follow. For example, the crane cannot be within 10 feet of power lines.

2. Create the Foundation

Before the crane building can begin a strong foundation is needed to ensure the crane stays stable. The size of the foundation will vary depending on the dimensions of the crane. A rough general size would require a five-foot-deep hole and measure about 30 x 30 feet.

After laying the foundation you should give it a few days to settle before continuing. You’ll want to check the base regularly to be sure it hasn’t sunk at all or settled incorrectly.

If there are any issues the whole foundation may need to be redone. It’s better to make sure it is right from the start to avoid finding out later if the crane collapses.

3. Construct the Initial Tower

The first step of building a crane involves attaching the first mast to the base, usually with anchor bolts that stick out from the substructure. Once secure, you can stack more masts to reach the height needed for the first stage of construction.

Throughout this, and while the crane is in use, the base should be monitored to make sure the load isn’t too heavy and that the elevation is correct.

4. Construct the Slewing Assembly

The slewing assembly consists of a number of components that enable the crane to move in different directions:

• Horizontal jib
• Counter jib
• Cab
• Slewing ring
• Tower top

You can assemble this piece by piece, or if desired it can all be assembled as one part and then lifted onto the initial mast when ready.

5. Adjust the Height

A hydraulic jack along with the top climbing unit makes it possible to lift the slewing assembly while adding new masts. This allows you to increase the overall height of the crane whenever needed.

What to Do After You Build a Crane

Before the crane is used for construction you should carry out a complete inspection and load test. Observing structural elements throughout a load test and re-inspecting after will reveal any issues such as cracks or leaning. It is important to address these immediately.

A licensed technician must also carry out an inspection on any switches, cables, and brakes before use.

These tests may vary for different types of cranes.

Other Crane Building Tips

Cranes are varied, complicated machines, with a lot of different capabilities depending on the type of crane in question.

Now that you know the basics of how to build a crane you might be thinking about investing in one. If that is the case, you’ll want to check out our article about the top factors to consider when buying a crane.

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How Do Construction Cranes Work?

How Do Construction Cranes Work?

Have you ever gazed upward at a tall building and wondered how all that heavy material was lifted into its final position? Cranes are a true feat of engineering. Construction cranes can lift upwards of 40,000 pounds at once!

If you have ever wondered how a construction crane works, read on to explore our construction cranes guide.

How Construction Cranes Work

Whether you are curious about knuckle-boom cranes or tower cranes, any crane basically works the same way. Below, we’ll explore some of the basic components that allow cranes to do the important work they do. Any construction cranes buying guide would include cranes with these features.

The Mast

The mast is easily the most recognizable part of any crane. Put simply, it’s the tall part of the crane assembly that sticks straight up into the air. Sometimes, it even resembles the mast of a ship.

Rather than lifting a sail, though, a crane mast raises heavy building materials. Supporting tower cranes are heavy bases that stabilize the cranes. The base for tower cranes can weigh 400,000 pounds.

Not all cranes are supported by a base. Forestry cranes must be mobile in order to be useful for moving lumber.

Gear and Motor

Near or at the top of the mast is the gear and motor assembly. This allows the crane to rotate. Some assemblies are powered by electricity while others are driven by a gas motor.

The lifting ability of a crane isn’t its only asset. A crane must be able to lift and rotate so cargo reaches specific points of a construction project. Other important parts of a construction crane that are often found near the gear and motor are the working arm and operator cab.

The Jib

If you are looking for construction cranes near me, you may want to be on the lookout for a crane job. Beyond the mast, the jib is easily one of the more recognizable parts of a crane. The working arm is horizontal and long.

Attached to the jib is a trolly that helps carry the load. The machinery arm fits inside the jib and is always shorter. Within the jib are motors.

On the side of the jib opposite of the load are counterweights. The large concrete slabs help balance the load.

The Crane Operator

The laws of physics do not allow tower cranes to extend their heavy loads to the far end of the jib. Crane operators must keep a careful watch over the process to ensure that loads are moved carefully and safely.

The operators manage several factors at once from within the operator box that is usually located near the base of any crane. They have learned construction crane tips, and they use specialized hand signals to communicate with other members of the construction crew.

Learn More About Construction Cranes

Construction cranes come in all shapes and sizes, and without their help, modern lifts would be very different. All cranes share the basic structures described in this article.

Has this article gotten you excited about cranes? Our website can keep you up to date with the latest on forest cranes, crane safety tips, and much, much more.

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How Do Tower Cranes Work?

How Do Tower Cranes Work?

Modern urban landscapes would not be possible without the invention of the tower crane. Since 1949, when Hans Liebherr created the first tower crane, cities across the world have relied on the heavy lifting crane to make worksite projects quick, safe, and efficient.

In this tower cranes guide, we will explore the basics of how these important devices work. We’ll even answer a popular question: Why don’t the cranes fall down or tip over?

How Do Tower Cranes Work?

Tower cranes soar up to 265 feet into the air and can lift up to 20 tons. Regardless of their stature, tower cranes basically have the same three parts.

Keeping each tower crane from tipping over is a base that crews bold to the concrete below. Crews then connect the base to a mast or tower.

The slewing unit attaches to the base. The unit has a motor and ring gear. The gear allows the crane to rotate.

The working arm (jib) carries the load. A trolly runs along the long arm and moves the load. The operator uses counterweights to lift heavy loads up to where they need to be lifted.

Last but not least, the operating cab allows a trained professional to maneuver the massive crane in a delicate choreography.

How Are Tower Cranes Constructed?

Putting together a tower crane is hard work. First, construction project managers may need to explore a tower crane buying guide or search “tower cranes near me.”

Tower cranes keep from falling over because they are bolted to a large, concrete slab. This slab may need to be poured weeks before a tower crane can be set up.

A mobile crane helps move the sections. The crane then grows one mast at a time.

The crew attaches a top climber between the slewing unit and the upper end of the mast. A hydraulic ram then lifts the mast 20 feet at a time.

The process is slow work.

While all tower cranes consist of the same basic components, crane operators use specialized designs for certain types of projects. Luffing cranes, for example, can raise loads at an angle to reduce the slewing radius.

Derrick cranes fit on rooftops. They do not require tall masts. Traveling tower cranes move on rails that allow the cranes to move laterally.

Do I Need a Tower Crane?

If you are working on a project that requires lifting materials to very high heights then you will require a Hiab crane to complete your work.

Tower cranes can lift and set steel at every level of your project. They can be used to pour concrete or set panels in place. They also can help with the placement of electrical and mechanical systems.

For more great tower crane tips, be sure to follow our comprehensive blog.

Shop for All of Your Crane-Related Needs

Tower cranes shape our modern city landscapes. Setting up the massive cranes is delicate work that requires years of expertise.

If you are looking for one source to learn more about cranes, follow our educational articles that provide expert advice on rail cranes, crane safety, and more.

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What Is a Telescopic Crane?

What Is a Telescopic Crane?

Around 11 million containers move through the Port of Los Angeles each year, filled with goods from all over the world.

Moving those containers from ship to shore is the job of 82 cranes up and down the port. They’re a great example of a telescopic crane, one of the most versatile options when you need to move heavy loads around. The maneuverable and tough machine offers a lot of flexibility to cover many needs around a worksite.

So, just what are telescopic cranes? How do they differ from other types? Continue on through this telescopic cranes guide to learn more.

About the Telescopic Crane

What makes a telescopic crane different from other types is the boom made up of many tubes fitted inside each other. This allows the boom to extend and retract using a hydraulic system. This allows for more flexibility in reaching loads and higher lifting capacities.

The flexibility of these cranes extends to height as well. These have the highest reach of any cranes and the height can be adjusted. That allows them to lift higher than other cranes as well.

Versions with a jib on top can also work as a tower crane. Overall, setup is quick, making a telescopic crane ideal for emergency or rescue jobs.

Telescopic Crane Types

Telescopic cranes come in a few different categories. While they’re usually not mobile, some called crawlers can be. The crawler style can cover different and uneven surfaces to allow it to move to where it’s needed.

Other ways these cranes are categorized is through specific equipment or feature setups. These include capacity, number of units, and number of engines.

Smaller capacity telescopic cranes use slewing cylinders, while larger models use slewing rings. A single unit crane can easily be moved from one place to another, while a double unit has two parts — a mast and a jib — that make it more stationary.

A single-engine crane has just one engine powering the undercarriage and superstructure of the crane. A separate-engine version has a larger carrying capacity thanks to having two separate engines, one powering the undercarriage and one powering the superstructure.

Who Uses Telescopic Cranes

These cranes are part of many day-to-day hauling operations. With 80 to 90 percent of the world’s goods moving through ports, they find a lot of use there moving heavy loads around deck or from ship to shore.

Telescopic cranes are also common for building oil platforms offshore and in rescue operations like to raise salvage sunken ships. On worksites, their large carrying capacity makes them perfect for moving materials and equipment around.

Need a Telescopic Crane?

A crane can help you get more done, especially one with the flexibility a telescopic crane offers. You might consider different types of cranes, but if you need one that gives you plenty of height and the ability to handle the heaviest loads, a telescoping version is the one for you. This style is ideal for use in lots of industries, from shipping ports to construction sites.

If you found this article helpful, be sure to check out others on the site related to telescoping cranes and other crane types as well as telescopic crane tips.

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Mobile Cranes vs. Tower Cranes: What Are the Differences?

Mobile Cranes vs. Tower Cranes: What Are the Differences?

Urbanization and industrialization have led to a boom in the crane industry. Most metropolitan areas sport skylines dotted with construction cranes. These sophisticated machines increase efficiency at any job site.

When it comes down to choosing what type of crane is needed, the choice often boils down to either a mobile crane or a fixed tower. According to the Rider Levett Bucknall Crane Index, tower cranes make up 69 percent of the overall number of cranes at residential and mixed-use projects.

There are significant differences between mobile cranes and tower cranes, though. Here’s a look at what separates these machines.

What Are Mobile Cranes?

Mobile cranes are integral to modern construction work. These machines get their name from their ability to move about a job site. This versatility often affords site managers the necessary flexibility to finish their work.

Mobile cranes come in a variety of designs and styles. Most feature either a cable-controlled or hydraulic-powered telescoping boom. They’ll come fitted with outriggers, which are legs that extend out for stability, that increase the crane’s working radius.

A crawler crane comes set on tracks for mobility. A knuckle boom crane provides precise maneuverability, fast loading, and compact storage. And there are many others.

What Are Tower Cranes?

As the name would suggest, they reach high into the sky and remain a common fixture at most construction projects. Tower cranes stand among the most popular fixed crane options in construction. They’re built as a vertical metallic structure, with a horizontal boom capable of rotating.

Tower cranes are particularly useful for moving concrete, large tools, steel, and other building materials at select job sites. These machines are fixed to the ground, which robs them of any mobility but affords greater stability for load-lifting.

Tower cranes come in various sizes and types, with operating attributes dictated by the types of mounting and jib, among other elements. Some of the specific types of tower cranes include articulated jibs, rail-mounted, and self-erecting.

Mobile Cranes vs Tower Cranes

To decide which type of crane you’ll need, you must evaluate the project at hand. Project specifications will dictate the equipment, and budget will play a role as well.

Mobile cranes come with. a fast setup time, allowing the work to commence sooner. Tower cranes must be assembled on-site, which takes time. Mobile cranes also take up far less space than tower cranes.

Mobile cranes feature durability, flexibility, and mobility. They tend to be the more cost-efficient investment for most construction projects. Tower cranes, on the other hand, provide greater height and reach, and come with strong load-lifting capacity.

Load-Lifting Solutions and More

HIAB USA stands out as the world’s leading provider of load-handling equipment, intelligent services, and connected solutions. No matter if you need mobile cranes or tower cranes, HIAB can help supply your consideration project.

If you found this article informative, make sure to explore the rest of our website. We have all you need to know about cranes and crane safety.

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What is a Bucket Crane and How Does It Work?

What is a Bucket Crane and How Does It Work?

If you work in the construction business, every dime you spend and equipment that you invest in matters. The construction industry produces about $1.4 trillion in work annually.

You’re better able to handle your work when you invest in equipment as useful as bucket cranes. These crane systems are useful in a number of ways.

The tips in this article will help you out when you’re interested in buying a bucket crane.

What Exactly is a Bucket Crane and What Does It Do?

Before you set out to buy a crane, it’s important that you understand what kind of work they can do for you.

These cranes feature jaws-like buckets at the top that grab and scoop materials. The bucket attachment is suspended by a lever that can move in different directions to collect and lift items with precision.

Many companies invest in crane bucket equipment that will help them with several different projects — such as road construction, work in ports, repairing and building bridges, utility line maintenance, and more.

What Are the Benefits of Bucket Cranes?

There are numerous benefits to using bucket cranes.

For one, these projects reduce fuel consumption and CO 2 emissions, which makes for a cleaner project. Expect eco-friendly and sustainable construction to remain a trending part of the industry for the next several years.

A crane truck with bucket will handle a large amount of work that may otherwise involve an entire crew. This cuts down on time expenditures and helps to lower the overall cost of the project.

Cutting time and costs in this manner gives you a better return on investment (ROI) and allows you to hit schedules and objects.

You’ll also reduce the risk of injury with bucket cranes, as they contribute to a safer work environment.

What Types of Bucket Cranes Are Available?

Take the time to study the different types of bucket cranes on the market.

Perhaps you need a clamshell bucket crane or a concrete bucket for crane use. Other types include four rope grab, single and double-rope grab, scissor grab, electric motor grab, and multiple valve grab buckets.

You can buy a man bucket for crane use and employ your own professionals, or outsource the work to a crane operator.

Make certain that any crane operator you use is licensed and trained under Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) protocols and guidelines. This is critical since there are nearly 300 crane deaths per year on worksites all over the United States.

Invest in a Bucket Crane That Will Serve You

A bucket crane can serve you in a number of ways. When you understand both the benefits and uses, it’s easier for you to take control of your construction projects.

Use this information as a starting point so that you can start shopping around for the perfect crane. We’re happy to assist you further.

For more information on crane safety, buying a crane and a variety of other points, check out our other posts and stay tuned to our site.

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How Do Cranes Get to Construction Sites?

How Do Cranes Get to Construction Sites?

Cranes of all shapes and sizes are a familiar sight on any city skyline. If you visited Dubai, you would be in the same city as almost 20% of all the cranes in the world. And yet it’s unlikely that you will have ever seen any kind of vehicle transporting an enormous crane from one site to another. 

So maybe you have always wondered, how do cranes get to construction sites? Read on to discover all the secrets of crane transportation. 

Crane Transportation Explained

The simple truth is that cranes are not like any other kind of machinery. It is not possible to transport the vast majority of cranes in one piece. In fact, they have to be assembled on-site, then disassembled at the end of the job, and taken away from the site for storage elsewhere. 

Tower cranes are some of the biggest types of crane on the market, with amazingly high load capacity. Due to their height, some up to several hundred feet, it would not be possible to transport them in their fully constructed form. The only way to move them is by transporting the smaller component parts. The next step is for operatives to fully assemble the crane once all the parts have reached the building site.

How Do Cranes Get To Construction Sites?

It is possible to transport some cranes without disassembling them. For example, truck cranes are a smaller type of crane which is fixed onto a vehicle, usually a commercial lorry or a pick-up truck. These types of cranes can move on their own with no additional vehicle needed.

Some larger cranes also have their own wheels and it is possible to move them by road. It may be necessary to have an escort vehicle for these types of cranes to be moved on public roads or through busy cities.

Crawler cranes are another type of heavy all-terrain crane which are able to move by themselves. However, they move incredibly slowly, so while it is possible for them to move independently across and between sites, the reality is that most of the time another vehicle is necessary for transportation. 

Crane Transportation Tips 

If you are thinking about buying a crane for use in your business, you should consider how you are going to transport it from place to place. This will help you to decide on the most appropriate crane for your needs. 

It is also crucial to ensure that the crane is installed properly, starting from the base and working upwards. At each stage, the assembly team should carry out safety checks, to avoid risks such as the crane collapsing.

The same level of safety oversight must also be in place when it is time to disassemble the crane. This process takes a lot of planning to make sure that everything is done safely and in the right order. 

Crane Transportation Guide 

Now you know the answer to the question, how do cranes get to construction sites. To learn more about the most efficient and reliable types of cranes on the market, don’t hesitate to explore the rest of the site. 

 

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