Urban landscapes continue to evolve in response to the need for taller, bigger, and modern structures. Cities around the world are competing in building the highest skyscrapers dominating the skyline. But none of these would be possible without advanced engineering techniques and specialised equipment and machinery. To construct buildings, different types of cranes are crucial.
A crane is a piece of heavy equipment used in lifting materials required in construction. Typically, the machine comes already mounted to a vehicle, which allows the crane operator to control it conveniently. This type of heavy equipment requires a trained and licensed operator. Since there are different kinds of cranes used in various capacities at a construction site, it is essential that the operator has the skills and knowledge to operate multiple types. That is why you should always look for a crane hire Lincoln company with trained and professional operators.
Different types of cranes
There are seven different kinds of cranes commonly used in construction.
- Tower crane. A tower crane is what makes it possible to construct tall structures in urban areas. A tower crane is not mounted on a vehicle; rather, it is fixed along the sides of the structure being built or secured on the ground. A secure attachment is crucial when operating a tower crane because it is designed to lift up to 20 tonnes.
- Bridge crane. This is the type of crane usually found in warehouses and industrial factories. This crane works along beams or tracks located above ground. This type of crane is typically required in steel manufacturing where these cranes handle the materials during every step of the process.
- Crane vessel. This type of crane is found on ships and other ocean vessels. Crane vessels are used with offshore oil rigs and construction.
- Cranes mounted on vehicles. This is a mobile type of crane that can be easily transported from one location to another. For safe operation during construction, the crane is stabilised using outriggers.
- Loader crane. A loader crane is another type of crane mounted on a vehicle but is smaller and more compact. The ideal application of a loader crane is to load goods and equipment on to a trailer.
- Telescopic crane. This is another type of crane mounted on a vehicle. A telescopic crane is small and compact, but unlike a loader crane which folds, it has tubes of different sizes that fit into one another. These tubes are retractable, allowing the operator to shorten or extend the boom as necessary.
- Floor crane. A floor crane is small and can be used indoors. It is a versatile piece of equipment which can suit a variety of functions in construction.
These different types of cranes are often available from plant hire companies. Different industries that require the services of a crane can easily access them by renting. In many ways, renting eliminates several of the challenges involved with acquiring and maintaining heavy equipment and also minimises the overall cost of using it.
