Other Types of Crawler-Mounted Cranes
In order to be able to power a large range of equipment, industrial wheel tractors were modified during the 1920s, by McCormick-Deering and Fordson. Like for example, half-swing cranes and shovels were made 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 started manufacturing attachments for them, such as a variety of lifting machine devices.
For instance, side-mounted booms were primarily utilized for pipe-laying where it gained its nickname the "pipelayer." These types of machinery are frequently used nowadays for attending to cleaning up railroad derailments. Because of their mobility, size and compact design, as well as excellent lifting capacity, these types of machinery are ideal for this use. Moreover, swing booms which 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 machines can not move fast thanks to their intense weights. Usually, 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 lattice boom or a telescopic arm that is easy to extend by 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 every time they are relocated. These tower cranes are very tall. They enable construction crews to move concrete building parts or heavy steel to the tops of tall buildings. Tower cranes utilize a hydraulic system to push every new crane section up into place and therefore, are self-erecting.