One crane is not right for every job. In today’s construction industry, there are a variety of cranes available, each with its own duty. Choosing the right crane for the job at hand helps to ensure everyone’s safety. Here is a brief explanation of the types of cranes that are available.
All Terrain Crane
This is a mobile crane that can move at the same speeds across rough ground as it can across smooth pavement. It has more wheels than a typical vehicle, and those wheels provide balance to the crane so it doesn’t overturn.
Aerial Crane
Also known as sky cranes, these cranes look like helicopters. In fact, they are designed so similarly to helicopters that people often confuse them. They are used to reach targets that are too difficult to get to by land.
Crawler Crane
These cranes are what most people think of when they picture cranes in their mind. They do not have wheels. Instead, the crane is propelled by tracks, similar to what are seen on tanks. They have a high lifting capacity and can travel easily while carrying a load. They are used primarily to move heavy loads on a construction site.
Floating Crane
These cranes are used for bridge construction. They are also used when ships need to be loaded or unloaded. They can lift and carry up to 9,000 tons. In some of the most interesting cases, they have been used to bring sunken ships to the surface.
Railroad Crane
Cranes such as these are used to construct railway lines. They are also used to maintain and repair railroads. They have special wheels which makes them only moveable on train tracks.
Rough Terrain Crane
The rough terrain crane is a vehicle mounted crane. It has specially designed rubber tires that make it possible to move off-road. Outriggers at the bottom of the vehicle provide stability as the crane works.
Telescopic Crane
A telescopic crane has a number of tubes fitted in one another and in a boom. They can extend out using a hydraulic mechanism. This crane is used for rescue operations, to build signal towers and more.
Tower Crane
A tower crane can work up to 265 feet in the air and as low as 230 feet below ground. They can lift up to 20 tons and fixed upon a large, concrete base. They are kept in place during construction and removed when the job is done.
These are just some of the cranes in use today. When a crew is working on a construction site, it is important not only that the right crane is utilized, but that its operator is familiar with its capacity. If you have been injured on a work site in San Luis Obispo due to someone’s negligence, you may have a case for damages. Call our office today to learn more about your legal rights.
