Understanding Different Types of Cranes for Construction

Cranes are essential equipment in the construction industry. Whether constructing high-rise buildings, bridges, or other large structures, cranes play a vital role. Their primary function is to lift, lower, and transport heavy loads, ensuring the smooth progress of construction projects. 

As the complexity and scale of construction projects continue to increase, a wide range of crane types has emerged on the market. To help you better understand the different features and uses of these cranes, we will provide a detailed introduction to several common types of construction cranes and offer purchasing recommendations.

1. Basic Classification of Cranes

Construction cranes are generally divided into two categories based on their structure and usage characteristics: static cranes and mobile cranes.

• Static Cranes

Static cranes are primarily used for long-term construction projects and are typically fixed at the construction site or in locations such as the roof or side of a building. They offer high stability and can perform their intended tasks over extended periods, making them suitable for large-scale projects such as high-rise buildings.

• Mobile Cranes

Unlike static cranes, mobile cranes can be moved freely around the construction site, enabling them to flexibly move heavy loads from one location to another. They are suitable for a variety of short-term construction tasks, especially in difficult terrain or where space is limited.

2. Types of Mobile Cranes 

Mobile cranes are indispensable equipment in construction due to their flexibility and adaptability. They can quickly adjust their position on the construction site and move heavy loads. The following are several common types of mobile cranes, each with its own unique design and features, suitable for different construction environments and needs.

• Crawler Cranes

Crawler cranes are a type of mobile crane well-suited for use in harsh terrain. They have large crawler tracks mounted on their underside, similar to those on a tank, which help them easily navigate soft, slippery, or uneven ground. Crawler cranes are particularly well-suited for initial ground preparation, especially when the ground is not yet fully stabilized.

The advantages of crawler cranes lie in their high lifting capacity and excellent traction. This makes them the preferred equipment for large-scale construction projects, mining operations, infrastructure development, and other applications. Furthermore, crawler cranes are often equipped with powerful hydraulic systems, enabling them to lift heavier objects. While powerful, crawler cranes are relatively less maneuverable and are therefore best suited for large-scale construction projects, particularly those requiring heavy equipment and extended periods of operation.

• All-terrain cranes

All-terrain cranes combine the advantages of crawler cranes and truck cranes. They can travel not only over rough terrain but also on roads, adapting to a variety of ground conditions. These cranes are typically equipped with multiple wheels, up to 18, and feature telescopic booms and adjustable outriggers, ensuring stability in all conditions.

The advantage of all-terrain cranes is that they can be used across various construction sites in urban and rural areas, making them particularly convenient for multi-site construction or when quick transfers from one project to another are required. They generally have greater lifting capacities than truck cranes, but are less adaptable to less arduous ground conditions than crawler cranes. All-terrain cranes are ideal for projects that require frequent relocation, such as large commercial construction and factory construction.

• Truck cranes

Truck cranes are also known as truck-mounted cranes or truck-mounted cranes. Unlike crawler cranes and all-terrain cranes, truck cranes have a chassis provided by the truck itself, making them highly adaptable to road conditions. They are typically compact and maneuverable, making them suitable for small to medium-sized construction projects, particularly those that do not require extreme lifting capacity. 

The greatest attributes of truck cranes are their maneuverability and cost-effectiveness. Since they don't require specialized transport, they can be quickly dispatched and adapted to various types of projects. Truck cranes are suited for handling lighter loads, typically handling weights between 10 and 60 tons, making them an ideal choice for smaller load tasks. They are particularly well-suited for road construction, light industrial projects, and moving materials within warehouses or factories.

• Carry Deck Cranes

Carry Deck Cranes are the smallest of all mobile crane types. Typically mounted on a four-wheel chassis, they feature a compact design and are designed for smaller construction projects requiring frequent movement. Although their lifting capacity is relatively low, typically under 25 tons, their high maneuverability makes them very popular on construction sites with confined spaces.

This type of crane is often used for indoor projects or construction sites that require frequent handling of materials within a small area. For example, they can quickly move materials and equipment within factory floors, warehouses, and other industrial areas. The advantage of a carry deck crane lies in its excellent steering capabilities, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and suitable for everyday handling tasks.

• Telescopic Boom Cranes

Telescopic boom cranes are another common type of mobile crane. They are equipped with a retractable boom, allowing the crane to cover longer distances while working. The boom can be adjusted as needed, enabling them to operate at height or in hard-to-reach locations. Telescopic boom cranes are often used for high-altitude work, tower crane dismantling, or special projects.

The unique feature of this type of crane is its telescopic boom structure, which allows for more efficient operation in confined spaces. Although telescopic boom cranes generally have a smaller lifting capacity, they are very effective in projects requiring a wide range of operations, especially in urban construction or special projects.

3. Advantages of Used Cranes

In the construction industry, purchasing a brand-new crane can involve a significant investment. However, choosing a used mobile crane or a used truck crane can significantly reduce costs. Used cranes not only meet most construction needs but can also be restored to excellent working condition in a short period of time, saving businesses significant money. Many construction companies choose to purchase used truck-mounted cranes because of their high mobility and adaptability, enabling them to efficiently perform a variety of lifting tasks.

4. Choosing the Right Crane

When selecting a crane, you need to decide whether to choose a static crane or a mobile crane based on the specific needs of the project. If you need a crane for long-term use, a static crane is undoubtedly the more appropriate choice. For shorter-term projects that require flexibility, a mobile crane is a better option.

When purchasing a used crane, you should also pay attention to its lifting capacity, working range, mechanical condition, and maintenance history. Choosing the right crane not only improves construction efficiency but also reduces safety risks.

5. Conclusion

Different types of cranes are suitable for a wide range of construction environments and needs. From crawler cranes that can navigate rough terrain to flexible truck cranes, each type of crane has its own unique advantages and application scenarios. When choosing the right mobile crane, consider not only lifting capacity but also the site terrain, project size, and required mobility. Understanding different types of cranes will help you make an informed choice, improving construction efficiency and safety.

Whether you choose a new or used crane, ensuring it meets your project requirements and partnering with a professional supplier will help you complete your project efficiently and safely. If you're looking for a used mobile crane or truck crane, contact a reliable crane supplier for more options and great deals. Haode Machinery is committed to providing you with the most professional service and support when choosing the right crane.