Different Types of Crawler-Mounted Cranes
In order to be able to power a large range of equipment, industrial wheel tractors were modified in the 1920s, by Fordson and McCormick-Deering. For instance, half-swing shovels and cranes were manufactured by several companies around the engine and power train of the tractor 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 a variety of lifting machine devices.
For instance, side-mounted booms were primarily utilized for pipe-laying where it gained its nickname the "pipelayer." These equipments are frequently used nowadays for attending to cleaning up railroad derailments. Due to their compact design, mobility and size, in addition to excellent lifting capacity, these types of equipments are ideal for this use. Moreover, 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 equipments do not move really fast. Normally, the crane is powered by one engine and could be controlled by 2 or more cable operated drums. The crawler cranes come equipped with a lattice boom or a telescopic arm which can be extended easily using hydraulics. The lattice boom has to be manually assembled by adding many sections.
Tower Cranes
Usually found in large construction projects, tower cranes are required to be built and broken down on location. They should be transported by truck each time they are relocated. These tower cranes are very tall. They allow construction crews to move concrete building parts or heavy steel to the tops of tall buildings. Tower cranes utilize a hydraulic system to push each new crane part up into position and therefore, are self-erecting.