Other KInds of Crawler-Mounted Cranes
In order to be able to power a huge range of equipment, industrial wheel tractors were adapted during the 1920s, by Fordson and McCormick-Deering. Like for example, half-swing shovels and cranes were manufactured by some companies around the power train and engine of the tractor and the wheels became replaced by crawlers.
Crawler tractors came into widespread use in the 1930s. Soon after, many manufacturers began manufacturing attachments for them, like various lifting equipment devices.
For example, side-mounted booms were mainly used for pipe-laying where it gained its nickname the "pipelayer." These equipments are frequently used these days for attending to cleaning up railroad derailments. Due to their compact design, mobility and size, along with exceptional lifting capacity, these kinds of machines are great for this use. In addition, swing booms which mounted on top of the engine compartment also became available.
Crawler cranes are similar to the crawler tractor in that it travels along crawler tracks. These machinery could not move fast thanks to their intense weights. Usually, the crane is powered by one engine and may be controlled by 2 or more cable operated drums. The crawler cranes are available with a telescopic arm or a lattice boom that can be extended easily utilizing hydraulics. The lattice boom must be assembled by hand by adding multiple sections.
Tower Cranes
Typically found in large construction projects, tower cranes are required to be built and broken down on location. They need to be transported by truck each time they are relocated. These tower cranes are very tall. They enable construction crews to move concrete building parts or heavy steel to the tops of tall buildings. Tower cranes utilize a hydraulic system to push each new crane part up into position and therefore, are self-erecting.