The Mystery of Cranes on Top of Buildings
If you’ve ever looked up at a towering skyscraper under construction, you’d probably notice a common sight: a crane perched on top of the building. It’s hard not to wonder how the crane got up there, and what happens to it once the construction is complete. In this article, we’ll explore the mysteries of cranes on top of buildings and their fates.
How Are Cranes Erected on Top of Buildings?
The first question that comes to mind is how the massive cranes are erected on top of buildings. Large cranes, called tower cranes, are usually used in such construction. They are assembled piece by piece on the rooftop, with the base section mounted on a concrete pad. As the height of the building increases, the crane is built up by adding sections to the mast. Each section is hoisted into position by the crane itself, with the help of a smaller mobile crane.
What Happens Once Construction Is Complete?
Once construction is complete, the crane is no longer needed, so the process goes in reverse. The tower crane’s operator climbs the crane and takes it apart, piece by piece. He works his way down the mast until he reaches the base, which is then dismantled with the help of a mobile crane. The crane parts are loaded onto trucks and transported to the next construction site.
What Are the Risks to Buildings and Cranes Due to Weather?
Since cranes are exposed to the elements and high winds, weather conditions can pose a danger to people and property. In case of strong winds or storms, the crane can sway or even collapse, endangering human life and causing property damage. To prevent such incidents, cranes are engineered to withstand high winds and are designed with safety mechanisms to prevent them from toppling over. However, extreme weather conditions such as hurricanes or tornadoes can be too much for any crane to withstand.
What About Crane Operators?
Finally, what about the crane operator? Once the crane is dismantled, he moves on to his next job, following the construction industry from one site to the next. Being a crane operator requires skill and training, as well as a head for heights. It’s not a job for everyone, but those who love it find it to be a challenging and exciting career.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cranes on top of buildings are essential for the construction process but pose many challenges from the heights they are erected to the weather they experience. In the end, cranes are dismantled and moved on to other construction sites, leaving behind a completed building. The crane operator takes his skills and moves on to the next challenge, leaving behind memories of a job well done.
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