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Writer's pictureCarmen Zajicek

Common Types of Construction Cranes

Updated: Aug 3, 2021


Construction crane

Cranes were invented by the Greeks back in 500 BC. They were a staple in construction at that time.


Presently, there are a variety of cranes available. It can be challenging to know which one is perfect for a particular task. As each crane serves a specific purpose, choosing the wrong type of crane can lead to delays and budgetary issues. 


Here are four common types of construction cranes that you need to know about.


Mobile Cranes

These cranes are mounted on tires or crawlers and offer better mobility compared to a standard crane. Mobile cranes' ability to be driven on the highway and construction sites makes them versatile and popular in many construction projects.

Mobile crane

Here are two common types of mobile cranes:


1.Carry Deck Crane

A carry deck crane is an evolution of the pick and carry crane model launched in 1980. They're four-wheeled, small, and can rotate 360-degrees.

Carry deck cranes' compact size enables them to navigate in open and confined spaces alike, and their ease of setup makes them stable on many construction sites. 


2.Crawler Crane

Crawlers don't have tires. Instead, they have an undercarriage that's fitted with rubber tracks. While it limits the crawler's ability to turn, it enables them to work on soft ground without the fear of them sinking. 

Some crawlers have a telescopic arm that enables them to alter their size. It makes them adaptable on different construction terrains. Crawler cranes are ideal for long-term projects because of their setup and bulkiness.


Fixed Cranes

As the name suggests, fixed cranes are fixed at one spot. They're assembled at the construction site. While they aren't mobile, they can reach greater heights and lift heavier weights.


Fixed Crane

Here are two common types of fixed cranes: 


1.Bulk-handling Crane

Evident by their name, bulk-handling cranes carry a bulk of heavy material like minerals or coal. Instead of having a usual hook at their end, they contain a specialized hook that has a bucket for grabbing, holding, and lifting materials. 


2.Hammerhead Crane

Hammerhead cranes have a swiveling lever perpendicular to the fixed tower. They have a trolley in the forward part, and it is counterbalanced with the arm that extends backward. 

Hammerhead cranes also have a feature called racking. It enables the trolley to move backward and forward along the crane's arm. These cranes are assembled on site. 

Crane Warning Systems Atlanta offers a wide range of crane RaycoWylie crane products and s supplies to ensure that construction sites are safer and efficient across the US. We provide operation aids like crane load monitors, portable cameras, crane RCI indicators, crane wind speed, crane LMI systems, among other parts, to augment crane safety systems.


For inquiries and estimates, you can contact us at 770-888-8083.

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