Types of Overhead Cranes

Types of Overhead Cranes

Various Crane Solutions to Meet Your Requirements

Overhead cranes are typically produced in four main configurations and types. Below, we outline the most common types and configurations of cranes.

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Understanding the Different Types of Cranes

When you visit a construction site, it’s quite impressive to see the various types of machinery and heavy equipment at work, with cranes prominently lifting and transporting loads.

Whether you are new to the industry or a seasoned expert, you may encounter crane equipment or terminology that is unfamiliar to you.

With over 65 years of experience in providing lifting and rigging solutions, as well as training and inspection services across various industries, we cater to customers utilizing nearly every type of crane.

This article aims to give you a fundamental understanding of the different crane types, their applications, and operational distinctions. You will learn more about:

Static Cranes vs. Mobile Cranes

Cranes can be broadly categorized into static cranes and mobile cranes. Static cranes are permanent or semi-permanent installations fixed to the ground or a building, designed to lift loads along a predetermined path. In contrast, mobile cranes are mounted on tracks or wheels, enabling them to be relocated between job sites.

Mobile cranes are not tethered to a specific route, and many offer a "pick and carry" feature, allowing them to lift and transport loads on the go. Some mobile cranes incorporate outriggers, counterweights, or require on-site assembly.

Types of Static Cranes

A static crane is a structure anchored in place, allowing for lifting within a confined area.

An overhead crane features a bridge that travels along a runway, with a hoist that moves horizontally to lift and lower objects across a rectangular workspace. These cranes enhance safety and operational efficiency within facilities and have load capacities ranging from 0.25 to 400 tons.

Overhead Cranes

As the name suggests, overhead cranes operate above a facility or construction site, moving loads horizontally along a fixed path.

While bridge cranes are most commonly identified under this category, there are various subtypes of overhead cranes including:

Tower Cranes

Tower cranes dominate city skylines, aiding in the construction of tall structures like skyscrapers. They comprise a vertical mast and a horizontal jib capable of 360-degree rotation (slewing). There are three primary types of tower cranes:

• Hammerhead cranes
• Luffing tower cranes
• Self-erecting tower cranes

Hammerhead Tower Crane

This type of crane features a rotor that permits the jib to turn around the mast, facilitating horizontal movement of loads.

Luffing Tower Cranes

Also called luffing-jib cranes, these have a lattice jib that can be raised and lowered to manipulate loads more efficiently in congested workspaces.

Self-Erecting Tower Cranes

These cranes are characterized by their ability to fold for easy transportation, making them suitable for tight construction areas.

Level-Luffing Cranes

With a movable jib and vertical mast, level-luffing cranes maintain hook elevation while adjusting the jib's position, proving useful for delicate lifting tasks.

Types of Mobile Cranes

Mobile cranes are characterized by an extendable boom, often mounted on vehicles that can traverse diverse terrains.

Crawler Cranes

Crawler cranes feature tank-like treads and are designed for heavy lifting, operating best on solid surfaces but not legally roadworthy.

Rough Terrain Cranes

Engineered for off-roading, rough terrain cranes navigate challenging environments but also require stabilization with outriggers.

All-Terrain Cranes

This versatile crane type combines on-road mobility with off-road capability, allowing operation in a variety of scenarios.

Truck Cranes

Popular for their road legality, truck-mounted cranes are smaller and suited for lighter loads.

Carry Deck Cranes

Featuring a telescopic boom mounted on a flat platform, these cranes are adept at transporting materials across a site.

Conclusion

This article has provided a comprehensive overview of the various types of cranes used in the construction industry and their unique functions. Overhead, tower, and level-luffing cranes fall under the static category, while mobile cranes offer flexibility and maneuverability.

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