A mobile crane is one of the most useful pieces of machinery to have on a worksite. However, cranes are not limited to construction. Hence, people also use them to remove large trees from the ground and to set HVAC equipment on a roof, among other uses. These cranes are mobile because they can move from place to place on their own.
They’re also called cranes because they have a very long arm, so they can be extended above the ground or away from the operator, which builds the entire machine. As far as cranes go, there are generally four principal types: truck-mounted, rough terrain, crawler or floating. Although each of these types of mobile cranes has unique functions and uses, what are some of the basic mechanics of how these types of cranes work?
What is a mobile crane?
A mobile crane is one of the construction equipment used for heavy-duty work and is mounted on wheels to move easily on job sites. They work by using hydraulic systems and pulley mechanisms to lift and move heavy loads. In general, they are a type of crane that mounts on a truck or trailer.
These cranes typically consist of four main parts, starting with the chassis, followed by the boom, the jib, and the hook. Firstly, the chassis is the base of the crane, where most of the equipment will be put. This part can include the truck or the trailer. The boom, the long arm of the crane, lifts heavy objects. The jib, a shorter arm, stabilises the load. Finally, the hook attaches and lifts the load.
Operators use a variety of controls, including joysticks, pedals, and levers, to operate these cranes. The training must properly prepare the operator to safely and effectively manage the crane. When not in use, crews must properly maintain and store these cranes. Thus, it includes conducting regular inspections and servicing. Plus, workers must also properly mark and secure a mobile crane when not in use to prevent accidents.
Types of mobile cranes
A mobile crane serves as a flexible lifting machine that allows for super transportability and quick setup. Therefore, this feature makes them an attractive option on the work site. Overall, operators categorise them by chassis type and terrain capability. However, manufacturers create specialised types for specific use cases.
Selecting the appropriate mobile crane involves evaluating lifting capacity, reach requirements, and ground conditions to ensure safe, efficient operations. Thus, strategic choice enhances productivity and safety across diverse construction scenarios. However, choosing the correct one is critical for you. Therefore, this section will explain the most common types of cranes to ensure that you select the correct one for your next job.
Pick and carry crane
Engineers design pick and carry cranes for lifting and moving loads over short distances. Moreover, manufacturers equip them with a fixed boom and a carrier that operators can drive to the desired location. Users find these cranes ideal for use in confined spaces, and industries commonly employ them in various settings. There are two types of pick-and-carry cranes, including Franna and Tidd PC28 Cranes.
Rough terrain crane
Engineers design rough terrain cranes for use in rugged and uneven terrain. Manufacturers equip them with four-wheel drive, enabling them to travel over rough surfaces. Their upgraded suspension system allows them to handle the roughest job sites. Construction projects, mining operations, and other outdoor applications often utilise this mobile crane.
All-terrain crane
Engineers design all-terrain cranes for use on a variety of terrains, including paved roads, gravel, and soft soil. Manufacturers equip them with a carrier that can be driven on public roads. However, they won't be able to handle the same kind of terrain that the rough terrain crane can. They are ideal for projects that require frequent relocation of equipment.
Crawler cranes
Manufacturers make crawler mobile cranes for use in areas where wheeled cranes may not be suitable, such as soft soil or steep slopes. Designers equip them with a tracked undercarriage that provides excellent stability and traction. Construction companies commonly use these cranes in construction projects, demolition work, and industrial applications.
Truck-mounted mobile crane
Truck-mounted cranes are designed for use on public roads and are often used for maintenance and repair work. They are equipped with a crane mounted on a truck chassis, which makes them easy to transport and set up at job sites. Usually, they have a small surface section, making them mainly used in urban areas.
Benefits of the mobile crane
A mobile crane delivers enhanced mobility, rapid setup, and versatile lifting capacity. They can be driven directly to job sites without disassembly, reducing transport time and logistic costs. Other than that, having a compact design enables them to navigate narrow passages and tight urban sprawl. This is ideal for congested construction environments.
They give operational efficiency through their quick setup time and rigging. It has outriggers that can extend quickly to stabilise the unit, which enables the crew to begin lifting almost immediately upon arrival. This deployment shortens the project schedules and enables them to do more in a single day. As a result, lowering cost and labour expenses.
A mobile crane also enhances safety and adaptability on varied terrains. Hydraulic systems and advanced load-moment indicators provide precise control over boom extension and load placement, reducing the risk of accidents. Their ability to reconfigure quickly for different lift profiles by adjusting boom length or swapping attachments ensures they can meet evolving site demands with minimal downtime.
Choosing the right mobile crane?
Choosing the right crane for the job ensures job site efficiency. After all, it's essential to guarantee worker safety. Different jobs require different cranes, and picking the right one will set you and your team up for success. Here are a few things to consider when picking a crane for a job site.
- Know the job requirements: Think about the types of loads that the crane will need to move. Consider the height, weight, and type of load, and pick a crane that can do what you need it to do.
- Look at the condition of the job site: Look at the job site and see what you’re working with. Strong winds and narrow job sites should impact the crane you choose.
- Review the load chart in advance: If you can, look at the crane’s load chart ahead of time. Calculate the crane's load capacity and check if it’s enough to get the job done. You want a crane that can safely move the loads, so pick a crane that has the load capacity to do so.
- Consider how the crane will be moved: Keep in mind how you can get the crane onto the job site. Larger cranes may need to be assembled on-site, while others may be driven to where they need to go. Check local city and state laws to see if you need any permits to transport the crane.
Summary
A mobile crane is a flexible piece of equipment. They make that for lifting material and machines alike. Hence, they are transportable, which is perfect for construction, industrial, and maintenance applications. It operates using hydraulics and pulleys, which feature parts like boom, jib and hook. With types like truck-mounted, rough terrain, and crawler cranes, selecting the right one depends on load, terrain, and site conditions to ensure safe and efficient operation.
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