Other Types of Crawler-Mounted Cranes
In order to be able to power a large range of machinery, industrial wheel tractors were adapted in the 1920s, by McCormick-Deering and Fordson. Like for example, half-swing shovels and cranes were manufactured by several companies around the tractor's power train and engine and the wheels became replaced by crawlers.
In the 1930s, crawler tractors came into widespread use. Immediately after, numerous manufacturers started making attachments for them, including a variety of lifting machine devices.
Side-mounted booms for instance, were used mainly for pipe-laying at first and the machinery got the nickname "pipelayer." These equipments are frequently used today for attending to cleaning up railroad derailments. Due to their mobility, size and compact design, in addition to excellent lifting capacity, these machinery are ideal for this use. Additionally, swing booms which mounted on top of the engine compartment also became available.
Similar to a crawler tractor, crawler cranes travel on crawler tracks. Due to their intense weight, these machines do not move very fast. Usually, the crane may be controlled by 2 or more cable operated drums and is powered by one engine. The crawler cranes come equipped with a lattice boom or a telescopic arm that is easy to extend by utilizing hydraulics. The lattice boom must be assembled manually by adding many sections.
Tower Cranes
Tower cranes are the ones found in large construction projects. These types of cranes are essential to be built and broken down on location. They have to be transported by truck each time they are relocated. These tower cranes are very tall. They enable construction crews to transport concrete building components or heavy steel to the tops of tall buildings. Tower cranes utilize a hydraulic system to be able to push every new crane part up into position and therefore, are self-erecting.