how do cranes move around

Cranes are essential pieces of equipment used in construction, shipping, and other industries that require the movement of heavy objects. They come in various sizes and types, including tower cranes, mobile cranes, and crawler cranes. However, one question that often arises is, how do cranes move around? In this article, we will explore the different methods used by cranes to move from one location to another and carry out their tasks.

Tower cranes

Tower cranes are commonly used in large construction projects and are fixed to the ground. They are tall and can reach significant heights, making them ideal for tall building projects. They use a concrete base to anchor the crane to the ground and support the weight of the crane and the load it carries. To move horizontally, a tower crane uses a slewing unit, which rotates the crane around a vertical axis. The jib, which is the horizontal arm of the crane, can be raised or lowered to carry out the required task. Besides, the crane operator can control the movement of the crane using a remote control, making their work more comfortable, efficient and increasing their safety.

Mobile cranes

Mobile cranes are cranes mounted on a truck or other mobile platform, allowing them to move around quickly. They can be used in various settings, such as construction, transportation, and emergency response. Most mobile cranes have a telescopic boom, which can extend to significant heights and distances and retract when not in use. They also have outriggers, which are legs that can support the crane when it is stationary, ensuring its stability when lifting heavy loads. Mobile cranes use engines to power their movement, and most modern machines have modern computer systems to enhance their safety and efficiency.

Crawler Cranes

Crawler cranes are designed to move heavy loads over rough terrain. They are mounted on tracks instead of wheels, making them more adept at moving through uneven terrain. They have a high carrying capacity and can carry loads up to thousands of tonnes. To move, the crawler crane uses hydraulic motors to propel its movements and dig its tracks into the ground to increase stability. A crawler crane can also rotate 360 degrees, enabling it to reach different working positions without having to move a long distance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cranes have become indispensable in many industries, enabling the movement of heavy objects with ease. Each crane type has its unique features and use cases, making them suited for different tasks. The methods used for moving these cranes around vary, depending on the terrain and the task requirements. The use of modern technology, especially in mobile cranes, has enhanced their safety and efficiency, making them valuable assets to any operation that requires heavy lifting.