Cranes are typically used in construction and manufacturing industries to assist with lifting heavy equipment and materials. The temporary structures are either fixed to the ground and controlled from a remote station, by radio controls, or are mounted on custom vehicles and operated by a technician that travels along with the crane. Learning about the different types of this piece of machinery will help you select the right equipment for your construction project. The following are the three most frequently-used types of cranes.

Top 3 Cranes to Consider for Your Project

1. Tower Cranes

Tower cranes are useful for their combination of height and lifting capacity. They are fixed structures that bolt into concrete slabs for stability and are used for constructing tall buildings. The tallest of these cranes can reach up to 1,000 meters high and can lift up to 35 tons. The massive size and reach of this machine require extra safety precautions — only skilled operators are allowed to control them.

2. Truck Mounted Cranes

Also known as boom trucks or picker trucks, these cranes are used for a number of different construction projects. The cranes are mounted on a rubber tire truck, making them mobile with versatile functions. The flat deck of the truck allows for easy lifting of light weight to medium-sized equipment. The crane being mobile makes it easy to transport materials and supplies around a job site or to any offsite locations.

3. Crawler Cranes

These cranes are mounted on movable tracks designed for multiple ground types, including soft terrains. They’re can lift between 80 to 825 tons and can easily and safely move around the job site. However, they are bulky and difficult to assemble and disassemble, which is why they’re best for long-term projects.

MC Steel & Crane of Wilder, KY, will provide all of the essential construction supplies you need for your project, from crane services to metal fabrication. Since 1983, this company has served residents of Indianapolis, IN, Columbus, OH, and Lexington and Louisville, KY, with an emphasis on safety and unmatched customer service. Call (859) 781-8600 to speak to a representative, or visit them online for more information on their products and services.