Tower cranes are a common sight if we live in an area with tall buildings and various big projects. We see tower cranes rising over buildings on the way to work as well as on the way back home.
While there are different types of tower cranes, each one used almost the same components that make up a regular crane.
The only differences in each crane are the features you get as well as the amount of work you can do with it.
As you read on, you’ll be able to learn more about what tower cranes are and how the different types of tower cranes work.
Types of Tower Cranes
A tower crane consists of a mast which is its vertical tower and a jib that stretches forward. this gives the tower the classic inverted L shape. Along the jib are a trolley and hook which can rotate at 360 degrees to get the job done.
Tower cranes are used especially for bigger projects, where tons of weight have to be carried or lifted up heights impossible for people.
There are smaller versions that can be used within factory or warehouse settings. These types of overhead cranes are extremely helpful to help with repetitive, lifting work. At shannahancrane.com you can find out which jib crane will best suit your needs.
Hammerhead Tower Crane
The most common tower crane. While the others have specific uses for them that may be limited depending on the project, a hammerhead tower crane fits the bill, most of the time.
It consists of a jib that rotates at a 360-degree angle horizontally around a fixed mast. A feature unique to the hammerhead tower crane is that it can move an object along with the job without having to change its level.
Luffing Tower Crane
A luffing tower crane does most of the things as a hammerhead tower crane does, with a few exceptions. While it is more expensive, it can do more than the average crane.
For example, the jib can move around a lot more.
It is built similarly to the hammerhead except the jib is latticed making it possible for the jib to be raised and lowered.
In addition to “luffing” these types of cranes are also able to lift objects heavier than what a hammerhead crane can handle.
Self-Erecting Tower Crane
Combine the abilities of a regular crane and a mobile crane and you get the self-erecting tower crane.
While it would still need to be carried around, It’s mobile in the way that it needs no further help in setting up as it uses its hoist motor to unfold and do the work.
The Choice Is Yours
These types of tower cranes help reduce the time required to finish a large project that would otherwise take years if people were to work on it alone.
There’s no need to buy a crane per project. There are plenty of reliable crane rental chicago il companies that will be more than happy to rent out a crane that is best suited for you and your projects.
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