What are Crawler Cranes and How Do They Work?
When it comes to heavy lifting in the construction industry, the crawler crane is something that sets itself apart from others in this segment of the industry. The sheer size of it usually requires that it be assembled at a particular job site after being transported by a specialized truck or by rail, which can be a tedious task.
A Long History
However, the benefits of this vehicle are clearly evident when taking into account how crawler cranes work and noting the weight it can lift, thanks to the system of track propulsion. This continual track system was something that was designed in the late 19th Century, but the first crawler cranes didn’t make their appearance on construction sites until the 1920’s.
A Versatile Standout
Here, the steel tracks that are an integral part of the vehicle are wide enough to work more consistently on softer ground and usually don’t require the use of outriggers. In addition, those tracks allow for a 360 degree rotation of the entire machine. That’s in contrast to a crane that’s equipped with rubber tires.
For massive projects that need lifting of loads that weigh up to 3,500 tons, and require a certain amount of versatility, the crawler crane is really the only choice. While the speed of the vehicle doesn’t match the wheeled variety, the monstrous loads that are lifted during the course of a skyscraper project and the ability to maneuver in narrow areas helps offer the best visual descriptions of just how crawler cranes work.
Key Parts
Making sure that such lifting takes place means that crawler crane parts like the counterweight have to be top quality. The massive tonnage of these assemblies helps steady the boom that can’t afford to be of substandard variety, since the alternative can mean only delays in the project, but potential tragedy.
The lattice boom doesn’t come ready to use, since multiple sections need to be added. Therefore, manual assembly is necessary. Crawler cranes can also come with a telescopic arm, with hydraulics helping address extension issues.
Of course, accounting for all of the crawler crane parts can offer a construction company a dizzying array of concerns. That’s due to factoring in the engine and control cabin, along with the cables within the boom. Then, at the end of the boom, the hook or hoist that’s attached has to be sturdy, while some cranes that need to stretch its limits require the use of a jib.
The Best Choice
That’s why working with Craneco Parts & Supply is probably the best avenue to pursue when seeking out an option for crawler crane parts. We’ve been around since 2003 and have an experienced and knowledgeable staff that knows how crawler cranes work. We also have an extensive inventory of parts at their disposal and have the logistics in place to make sure that deliveries make it as quickly as possible. Contact us today.
