Different KInds of Crawler-Mounted Cranes
In order to be able to power a large range of equipment, industrial wheel tractors were modified during the 1920s, by McCormick-Deering and Fordson. Like for instance, half-swing cranes and shovels were manufactured by some 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 started manufacturing attachments for them, including various lifting equipment devices.
For example, side-mounted booms were primarily used for pipe-laying where it gained its nickname the "pipelayer." These machinery are often used now for attending to cleaning up railroad derailments. Because of their mobility, size and compact design, along with outstanding lifting capacity, these machinery are ideal for this use. Additionally, swing booms that mounted on top of the engine compartment also became available.
LIke a crawler tractor, crawler cranes travel on crawler tracks. Because of their intense weight, these equipments do not move very fast. Normally, 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 telescopic arm or a lattice boom which can be extended easily utilizing hydraulics. The lattice boom must be assembled manually by adding many sections.
Tower Cranes
Usually found in large construction projects, tower cranes are required to be erected and broken down on location. They need to be transported by truck each and 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 utilize a hydraulic system to push each new crane section up into place and therefore, are self-erecting.