Different Types of Crawler-Mounted Cranes
Industrial wheel tractors in the 1920s, including those made by McCormick-Deering and Fordson were rapidly modified in order to be able to power a huge range of equipment. Like for instance, half-swing cranes and shovels 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 during the 1930s. Soon after, many manufacturers started making attachments for them, like for instance various lifting machine devices.
Side-mounted booms for example, were used mainly for pipe-laying at first and the machine got the nickname "pipelayer." These types of machines are often used now for attending to cleaning up railroad derailments. Due to their mobility, size and compact design, along with exceptional lifting capacity, these equipments are ideal for this application. Moreover, swing booms that mounted on top of the engine compartment became available also.
Crawler cranes are similar to the crawler tractor in that it travels along crawler tracks. These machinery could not move fast thanks to their intense weights. Usually, the crane is powered by one engine and can 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 manually assembled by adding many sections.
Tower Cranes
Tower cranes are the ones found in big construction projects. These types of cranes are essential to be built and broken down on location. They should be transported by truck each 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 use a hydraulic system to push every new crane part up into place and hence, are self-erecting.