Various Types of Crawler-Mounted Cranes
Industrial wheel tractors during the 1920s, such as those built by Fordson and McCormick-Deering were quickly modified in order to be able to power a huge range of machines. For example, half-swing cranes and shovels were manufactured by several companies around the tractor's power train and engine and the wheels became replaced by crawlers.
During the 1930s, crawler tractors came into widespread use. Immediately after, numerous manufacturers began making attachments for them, including various lifting equipment devices.
For example, side-mounted booms were primarily used for pipe-laying where it gained its nickname the "pipelayer." These kinds of machinery are usually utilized nowadays for attending to cleaning up railroad derailments. Due to their compact design, mobility and size, as well as exceptional lifting capacity, these machinery are ideal for this application. In addition, 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 machinery do not move really fast. Usually, the crane can be controlled by 2 or more cable operated drums and is powered by one engine. The crawler cranes come outfitted with a lattice boom or a telescopic arm which could be extended easily using hydraulics. The lattice boom should be manually assembled by adding multiple sections.
Tower Cranes
Usually found in large construction projects, tower cranes are required to be erected and broken down on location. They have to be transported by truck each and every time they are relocated. These tower cranes are very tall. They allow construction crews to move heavy steel or concrete building parts to the tops of tall buildings. Tower cranes use a hydraulic system to be able to push each and every new crane part up into place and hence, are self-erecting.