how do they raise construction cranes

Construction cranes are an essential part of the construction industry. These large machines are used to move and lift heavy objects, materials, and equipment on construction sites. They play a crucial role in the construction of high-rise buildings, bridges, and other large structures. However, have you ever wondered how they raise these massive cranes on site? In this article, we will explore how construction cranes are raised and assembled on construction sites.

Preparation Stage

Before construction cranes can be raised, there is a lot of preparation work that needs to be done. The first step is to prepare the site. This involves clearing the area and making sure that it is level and stable enough to support the crane. Once the site is prepared, a crane pad is created. A crane pad is a foundation that is made of steel or concrete, and it helps to provide a stable base for the crane. The size of the crane pad will depend on the size of the crane that will be used.

Raising the Base and Mast

Once the site and crane pad are prepared, the next step is to raise the base and mast. The base is the bottom part of the crane structure, and it needs to be bolted to the crane pad to keep it stable. The mast is the section of the crane that provides the vertical height, and it is raised in sections. To raise the mast, a smaller auxiliary crane is used to lift each section into place. Once the sections are in place, they are bolted together to create the full height of the mast.

Assembling the Jib

After the mast is raised, the jib, which is the horizontal arm of the crane, is assembled. The jib is usually assembled in sections and is attached to the mast. The jib is raised using the main crane, and each section is bolted together to create the full length of the jib. Once the jib is complete, the operator's cab is attached to the end of the jib.

Counterweights and Final Adjustments

The last step is to add the counterweights and make final adjustments. Counterweights are added to the rear of the base to balance the weight of the crane and prevent it from tipping over. The counterweights are usually made of concrete or steel, and their weight will depend on the size and reach of the crane. Once the counterweights are in place, final adjustments are made to the crane's controls, and it is ready to start work.

Conclusion

In conclusion, raising a construction crane takes a lot of preparation, planning, and specialized equipment. The process is complex and requires skilled workers to execute correctly. However, once the crane is up and running, it plays a vital role in the construction of large-scale projects. It speeds up the building process, reduces labor costs, and allows work to be done safely and efficiently. Understanding how construction cranes are raised and assembled is crucial for anyone who works in the construction industry.