Other Types of Crawler-Mounted Cranes
Industrial wheel tractors in the 1920s, such as those built by Fordson and McCormick-Deering were quickly adapted in order to be able to power a large variety of machines. For instance, half-swing cranes and shovels were made by some companies around the tractor's power train and engine and the wheels became replaced by crawlers.
Crawler tractors came into widespread use in the 1930s. Soon after, numerous manufacturers started manufacturing attachments for them, like a range of lifting machine devices.
For example, side-mounted booms were primarily used for pipe-laying where it gained its nickname the "pipelayer." These kinds of machinery are usually utilized now for attending to cleaning up railroad derailments. Due to their mobility, size and compact design, in addition to excellent lifting capacity, these types of machines are ideal for this application. Additionally, swing booms which mounted on top of the engine compartment became available too.
Similar to a crawler tractor, crawler cranes travel on crawler tracks. Due to their intense weight, these machines do not move really fast. Usually, the crane may be controlled by 2 or more cable operated drums and is powered by one engine. The crawler cranes are available with a telescopic arm or a lattice boom which can be extended easily using hydraulics. The lattice boom must be assembled manually 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 must be transported by truck each and every time they are relocated. These tower cranes are exceptionally tall. They allow construction crews to move concrete building parts or heavy steel to the tops of tall buildings. Tower cranes use a hydraulic system to be able to push each new crane section up into position and hence, are self-erecting.