Other Types of Crawler-Mounted Cranes
Industrial wheel tractors during the 1920s, like those manufactured by McCormick-Deering and Fordson were quickly modified in order to be able to power a huge range of equipment. For instance, half-swing cranes and shovels were manufactured by some 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. Immediately after, numerous manufacturers began making attachments for them, like for example various lifting machine devices.
Side-mounted booms for example, were utilized mainly for pipe-laying at first and the machinery got the nickname "pipelayer." These machinery are often used now for attending to cleaning up railroad derailments. Because of their mobility, size and compact design, along with exceptional lifting capacity, these equipments are ideal for this application. Additionally, swing booms that 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 machinery can not move fast due to their intense weights. Typically, the crane is powered by one engine and may be controlled by 2 or more cable operated drums. The crawler cranes are available with a lattice boom or a telescopic arm that could be extended easily utilizing hydraulics. The lattice boom needs to be manually assembled by adding multiple sections.
Tower Cranes
Usually found in large construction projects, tower cranes are required to be built and broken down on location. They need to be transported by truck every time they are relocated. These tower cranes are very tall. They enable construction crews to move heavy steel or concrete building components to the tops of tall buildings. Tower cranes use a hydraulic system in order to push every new crane part up into place and hence, are self-erecting.