Other Types of Crawler-Mounted Cranes
In order to be able to power a large variety of equipment, industrial wheel tractors were adapted in the 1920s, by Fordson and McCormick-Deering. Like for example, half-swing shovels and cranes were manufactured by some companies around the power train and engine of the tractor and the wheels became replaced by crawlers.
Crawler tractors came into widespread use throughout the 1930s. Immediately after, many manufacturers began making attachments for them, like for instance various lifting machine devices.
For example, side-mounted booms were mainly utilized for pipe-laying where it gained its nickname the "pipelayer." These machinery are usually utilized today for attending to cleaning up railroad derailments. Because of their mobility, size and compact design, as well as outstanding lifting capacity, these machinery are great for this application. Furthermore, swing booms which mounted on top of the engine compartment also became available.
Crawler cranes are similar to the crawler tractor in that it travels along crawler tracks. These machinery can not move fast thanks to their intense weights. Usually, the crane is powered by one engine and may be controlled by 2 or more cable operated drums. The crawler cranes come outfitted with a lattice boom or a telescopic arm that could be extended easily using hydraulics. The lattice boom must be manually assembled by adding multiple sections.
Tower Cranes
Typically found in big construction projects, tower cranes are required to be erected and broken down on location. They must 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 utilize a hydraulic system in order to push each new crane section up into position and therefore, are self-erecting.