Different KInds of Crawler-Mounted Cranes
Industrial wheel tractors during the 1920s, like those built by Fordson and McCormick-Deering were rapidly modified in order to be able to power a large variety of equipment. Like for instance, half-swing shovels and cranes were made by several 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. Soon after, numerous manufacturers began manufacturing attachments for them, including various lifting equipment devices.
Side-mounted booms for example, were used mainly for pipe-laying at first and the equipment got the nickname "pipelayer." These types of machines are frequently used now for attending to cleaning up railroad derailments. Due to their mobility, size and compact design, in addition to outstanding lifting capacity, these types of machines are ideal for this use. What's more, swing booms that mounted on top of the engine compartment also became available.
Similar to a crawler tractor, crawler cranes travel on crawler tracks. Due to their intense weight, these equipments do not move very fast. Typically, the crane could be controlled by 2 or more cable operated drums and is powered by one engine. The crawler cranes are available with a telescopic arm or a lattice boom that can be extended easily using hydraulics. The lattice boom has to be manually assembled by adding multiple sections.
Tower Cranes
Normally found in big construction projects, tower cranes are required to be built and broken down on location. They must be transported by truck every time they are relocated. These tower cranes are exceptionally tall. They enable construction crews to move concrete building components or heavy steel to the tops of tall buildings. Tower cranes use a hydraulic system in order to push every new crane part up into position and therefore, are self-erecting.