Other Types of Crawler-Mounted Cranes
In order to be able to power a large range of machines, industrial wheel tractors were adapted during the 1920s, by McCormick-Deering and Fordson. Like for instance, half-swing cranes and shovels were made by several companies around the tractor's power train and engine and the wheels became replaced by crawlers.
During the 1930s, crawler tractors came into widespread use. Immediately after, many manufacturers began manufacturing attachments for them, like for instance various lifting machine devices.
For example, side-mounted booms were mainly used for pipe-laying where it gained its nickname the "pipelayer." These types of machines are frequently used nowadays for attending to cleaning up railroad derailments. Because of their size, compact design and mobility, in addition to exceptional lifting capacity, these kinds of machinery are great for this use. As well, swing booms that mounted on top of the engine compartment became available also.
LIke a crawler tractor, crawler cranes travel on crawler tracks. Because of their intense weight, these equipments do not move really fast. Typically, the crane is powered by one engine and may be controlled by 2 or more cable operated drums. The crawler cranes come equipped with a telescopic arm or a lattice boom which is easy to extend by utilizing hydraulics. The lattice boom must be manually assembled by adding many sections.
Tower Cranes
Normally found in large construction projects, tower cranes are required to be erected and broken down on location. They must be transported by truck each and every time they are relocated. These tower cranes are exceptionally tall. They allow construction crews to transport heavy steel or concrete building parts to the tops of tall buildings. Tower cranes use a hydraulic system to be able to push each new crane part up into place and therefore, are self-erecting.