how do cranes extend

Cranes are essential heavy machinery used in construction and manufacturing industries. They are responsible for lifting and moving heavy loads from one position to another. In addition, cranes are used to extend at varying heights to reach for otherwise inaccessible loads. When the need arises, the crane must be extended, either in length or height, to reach for the intended objective. In this article, we explore how cranes extend, the various types of cranes that extend, and the factors to consider when deciding on the appropriate crane extension method.

Types of Cranes that Extend

Several types of cranes extend through different mechanisms. They include:1. Hydraulic truck cranes – They extend through a hydraulic cylinder system that pushes the telescopic boom out, increasing the crane’s reach.2. Crawler cranes – They extend hydraulically through luffing jib systems mounted on the boom.3. Tower cranes – They are extended through the addition of tower segments to the base mast.4. Rough-terrain cranes – Like hydraulic truck cranes, they expand through hydraulic cylinder systems.5. All-terrain cranes – They extend by adding lattice boom sections to the telescopic boom.

How Cranes Extend at Height

When a crane is required to extend to height, it typically uses a jib or luffing arm attached to the main boom. The jib/luffing arm can be either fixed or adjustable. If it is adjustable, it can be lowered or raised to varying heights, making it ideal for use in tight spaces.When the crane is erected, the jib/luffing arm is attached to the main boom and raised, providing extra height to the crane. In addition, some cranes can be equipped with attachments such as tower sections that can be added to extend the height. The mechanism used to extend the crane depends on the type of crane being used.

Factors to Consider in Crane Extension

Several factors must be evaluated before deciding on the appropriate crane extension method. These include:1. Load weight – The extension method used should be able to support the load safely.2. Terrain – Cranes operating on rough terrains require extension methods that provide stability and balance.3. Height – The height to which the crane needs to extend influences the extension method used.4. Space – The space in which the crane operates influences the extension method used.5. Weather – Adverse weather conditions such as strong winds or heavy rain can hamper crane extension.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cranes operate with various extension mechanisms that increase their reach, making them valuable machinery in the construction and manufacturing industries. The method of extension used depends on several factors such as load weight, terrain, height, space, and weather. Understanding the various extension mechanisms and factors to consider when selecting a crane extension method is critical in ensuring that the crane operates efficiently and safely.