Which Different Types of Cranes are Used in Construction?

You may think that all cranes are alike, especially if your only contact with them is walking past construction sites in bustling city centres.

However, there are actually different categories of crane, while each of these descriptions include a number of different options and models.

We’ll break these categories down below, while asking what the most common applications are for each one.

• Types of Static Crane

 We’ll start with static cranes, which are permanent or semi-permanent structures that are secured to the ground (or a building that’s restricted to a fixed path).

The most common iteration of this technology is an overhead crane, with its basic components including an overhead bridge that moves back and forth along what’s called a runway. Simultaneously, a hoist moves from side-to-side along the bridge beam, allowing optimal functionality for users.

Then there’s a tower crane, which is composed of several basic components including a motor and horizontal jib that enables it to rotate. This limits the scope to the job’s radius, so it’s typically used in smaller and more restricted spaces.

There’s also a level-luffing crane, which is like a tower alternative but consists of a vertical base and attached jib.

• Types of Mobile Crane

 Mobile cranes consist of an outstretched boom, which is often referred to as a lattice or telescopic boom. Often, this is mounted to a truck or other mobile structure that travels via treads or tires, while the boom can rotate up to 360 degrees and extend to various lengths when required.

The most common type of mobile cane is a crawler crane, which is also referred to as a lattice boom. This is the largest of all mobile cranes, and is often used to construct larger cranes at various construction sites.

Then there’s rough terrain cranes, which may be referred to as ‘RT’ cranes. This is specifically used for off-roading in challenging environments, which may include muddy or snowy planes.

• Types of Tower Crane

 While a tower crane is considered to be a static crane, it has a number of different iterations that exist within this category.

For example, you can use a self-supporting static tower crane, which is typically 30 metres tall and anchored at ground level using mass or reinforced concrete bases.

There’s also a supporting static tower crane, which is used where high lifts are required. To gain additional stability, the tower is tied at suitable intervals to the face of a structure, from a minimum distance of two metres.

Finally, you may also see a climbing tower crane at construction sites, with this piece of equipment suitable for working on structures that are particularly tall. The tower will typically be erected within a given structure and raised as the building itself becomes higher during the construction process.