Other Types of Crawler-Mounted Cranes
Industrial wheel tractors in the 1920s, such as those manufactured by McCormick-Deering and Fordson were rapidly modified in order to be able to power a huge variety of machinery. Like for example, 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.
Crawler tractors came into widespread use during the 1930s. Immediately after, numerous manufacturers began making attachments for them, such as a range of lifting machine devices.
For example, side-mounted booms were primarily utilized for pipe-laying where it gained its nickname the "pipelayer." These machinery are frequently used nowadays for attending to cleaning up railroad derailments. Due to their compact design, mobility and size, as well as excellent lifting capacity, these machinery are great for this use. What's more, swing booms that mounted on top of the engine compartment became available also.
LIke a crawler tractor, crawler cranes travel on crawler tracks. Due to their intense weight, these machines do not move really fast. Usually, the crane could be controlled by 2 or more cable operated drums and is powered by one engine. 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 manually assembled by adding many sections.
Tower Cranes
Usually found in big construction projects, tower cranes are required to be erected and broken down on location. They must be transported by truck each time they are relocated. These tower cranes are very tall. They allow construction crews to move concrete building components or heavy steel to the tops of tall buildings. Tower cranes utilize a hydraulic system to push each and every new crane part up into position and therefore, are self-erecting.