Other KInds of Crawler-Mounted Cranes
Industrial wheel tractors during the 1920s, including those made by Fordson and McCormick-Deering were quickly adapted in order to be able to power a large variety of machines. Like for example, half-swing shovels and cranes were made by several companies around the engine and power train of the tractor and the wheels became replaced by crawlers.
During the 1930s, crawler tractors came into widespread use. Immediately after, numerous manufacturers began manufacturing attachments for them, like for example a range of lifting machine devices.
For instance, side-mounted booms were mainly used for pipe-laying where it gained its nickname the "pipelayer." These machinery are now often utilized for attending to cleaning up railroad derailments. Because of their compact design, mobility and size, as well as outstanding lifting capacity, these machinery are ideal for this use. Moreover, swing booms that 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 machines do not move very fast. Normally, the crane may be controlled by 2 or more cable operated drums and is powered by one engine. The crawler cranes are available with a lattice boom or a telescopic arm that could be extended easily using hydraulics. The lattice boom should be assembled by hand by adding many sections.
Tower Cranes
Tower cranes are the ones found in big construction projects. These types of cranes are necessary to be built and broken down on location. They should be transported by truck every time they are relocated. These tower cranes are very tall. They enable construction crews to move concrete building parts or heavy steel to the tops of tall buildings. Tower cranes utilize a hydraulic system in order to push each new crane part up into position and thus, are self-erecting.