how cranes are erected

The construction of a high-rise building always involves the use of a crane. Cranes play a significant role in the construction industry and are critical in executing tasks that would be impossible to perform manually. However, have you ever wondered how these cranes are erected and the steps involved in the process? This article will take you through the process of erecting a crane and the crucial steps involved.

Site Preparation

Before the erection of a crane, the site needs to be prepared for the construction process. The ground should be firm and level, and any obstruction that may interfere with the crane installation process is removed. The team that will install the crane must also ensure that there is enough space for the crane and its components. They will also need to examine the site to determine the best location for the crane to avoid any possible safety hazards.

Erecting the Mast

The first step in erecting a crane is installing the mast. A massive hydraulic crane transports the mast to the site, and the installation process begins. The mast is hoisted to a vertical position by the crane and placed on the foundation mat. After this, the mast is securely anchored to the foundation using high-strength bolts. The mast will also be inspected to ensure that it meets all the necessary safety standards before proceeding to the next step.

Installing the Slewing Unit

After the mast is anchored, the slewing unit, also known as the upperworks, is installed. The slewing unit is fixed to the top of the mast using steel pins, and it includes the operating cabin, counterweight, and the jib. The team performing the installation should ensure that all the pins are correctly fitted, and the components are securely bolted to the mast. The most critical component of the slewing unit is the jib that connects to the counterweight, and its role is to support the load being lifted.

Mounting the Counterweight

The final step of crane erection is mounting the counterweight. The counterweight provides stability and balance to the crane when lifting heavy loads. The counterweight is mounted on the rear of the slewing unit and is fixed with high-tensile bolts. The team must ensure that the counterweight is securely bolted and that the crane is balanced. After the counterweight is in place, the crane is ready to start its work on-site.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the process of erecting a crane involves several steps, starting from site preparation to mounting the counterweight. The process requires proper planning and execution, and any unforeseen event during the installation process could cause significant safety hazards. Therefore, it is crucial to follow all the safety regulations and guidelines during the crane installation process to avoid any accidents. By following the correct installation procedures, a crane can be erected safely and effectively on any construction site.