Various Types of Crawler-Mounted Cranes
Industrial wheel tractors in the 1920s, like those built 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 cranes and shovels were made by several companies around the tractor's engine and power train and the wheels became replaced by crawlers.
Crawler tractors came into widespread use in the 1930s. Soon after, numerous manufacturers began manufacturing attachments for them, like for example a range of lifting equipment devices.
For instance, side-mounted booms were primarily used for pipe-laying where it gained its nickname the "pipelayer." These machines are currently normally used for attending to cleaning up railroad derailments. Because of their size, compact design and mobility, as well as exceptional lifting capacity, these kinds of equipments are great for this application. Moreover, swing booms which mounted on top of the engine compartment became available too.
Crawler cranes are similar to the crawler tractor in that it travels along crawler tracks. These equipments could not move fast due to their intense weights. Typically, the crane is powered by one engine and can be controlled by 2 or more cable operated drums. The crawler cranes are available with a telescopic arm or a lattice boom that can be extended easily using hydraulics. The lattice boom needs to be manually assembled by adding many sections.
Tower Cranes
Typically found in large construction projects, tower cranes are required to be built and broken down on location. They should be transported by truck every time they are relocated. These tower cranes are exceptionally tall. They allow construction crews to move heavy steel or concrete building components to the tops of tall buildings. Tower cranes use a hydraulic system to push each and every new crane part up into position and therefore, are self-erecting.