Types of Lorry Mounted Cranes
A mounted crane is a type of crane that is mounted on a truck or trailer. It is commonly used in the lifting and transporting of heavy goods and materials in different industries. This mobile crane mounted on a lorry makes it very easy to maneuver and transport the load. Lorry cranes are also called truck cranes.
Generally, the design of a lorry mobile crane consists of a hydraulic system that is used to control the movement and lifting of the load. Asides from this, it is also equipped with a mast or boom that can be controlled and moved around in different directions.
There are different types of lorry cranes, including the following:
- Centerfold Cranes: This type of lorry crane is designed with a centralized pivot point. The pivot point enables the operator to maneuver the load with ease through a variety of horizontal and vertical angles. Usually, the centerfold crane is used for tasks that require precise positioning of heavy materials, such as in construction sites, assembly projects, and industrial maintenance.
- Outrigger Cranes: The outrigger crane has a stabilizing mechanism known as an outrigger. The stabilizing mechanism helps to improve the overall stability of the crane. It achieves this by spreading out the stabilizers away from the body of the crane. This allows the crane to maintain balance, and also reduce the risk of tipping over when it is lifting heavy loads.
- Framed Cranes: A framed lorry crane is characterized by a lightweight but strong framed structure. The framed structure provides lift support to the mounted crane. This makes the mounted crane rugged and capable of easy load handling in different environments.
- Telescopic Crane: This type of lorry-mounted crane uses hydraulic mechanisms to extend its boom. This makes the crane able to reach great heights and distances. Also, telescopic cranes are very versatile. They can be used for a range of tasks, such as construction, installation, and infrastructure repair.
Specification and Maintenance
Proper maintenance of a mobile crane with lorry is crucial for its optimal performance and longevity. Following maintenance tips ensures safety and prevents frequent breakdowns.
- Regular inspection: Carry out routine inspections to see if there are signs of damage or unusual wear. Regular checks keep the crane in perfect condition. Promptly fix any issues if they arise. This also prevents minor problems from developing into major ones.
- Scheduled maintenance: Adhere to the maintenance schedule as prescribed by the manufacturer's manual. Arranging for periodic servicing allows for the timely replacement of key components that may wear out over time, such as brakes or tires. Generally, scheduled maintenance enhances the lorry crane's reliability.
- Lubrication: Regularly apply lubrication to all moving parts of the crane. This includes pivot points, joints, booms, and axles. Doing this minimizes friction and allows for smooth movement. It also reduces the rate of natural wear. Moreover, lubrication prolongs the lifespan of the vehicle and crane components.
- Tire maintenance: Regularly check the crane's tires. This includes a lorry crane with outriggers. Look for signs of wear and under-inflation. Adhere to the recommended tire pressure levels to evenly distribute the weight. Properly inflated and well-maintained tires offer optimal traction and stability. This is very important when maneuvering heavy loads with the crane.
- Cleaning: Clean the crane thoroughly after use. Remove dirt, debris, and corrosive materials, such as salt, from the body and boom. Regular cleaning helps to prevent damage from the accumulation of such substances. It also allows for the timely detection of potential issues, such as rust or leaks.
Applications of lorry-mounted cranes
The versatility of lorry-mounted cranes makes them applicable in different industries and for various uses. Here are some of the common uses:
- Construction of Buildings, Bridges and other Structures: A lorry-mounted crane is commonly used in the construction industry. The crane can be easily relocated to different sites as needed. It can also load and lift materials like metal beams and roofing with ease of relocation and flexibility. A lorry-mounted crane with the proper capacity can lift heavy materials like cement, bricks, sand, steel, and other construction components directly from the ground to any height or level required, including rooftops and upper levels.
- Installation of Machinery: Lorry-mounted cranes can be used to install heavy and awkwardly shaped machinery and equipment. The crane can position and place the machine in the required location with precision and ease. Examples of equipment and machines that can be handled by a lorry crane include air conditioning units, generators, industrial presses, assembly line equipment, and large production and manufacturing machines.
- Wind Turbine Assembly: Lorry cranes with the proper capacity can be assembled and erected easily and quickly on the wind turbine's base. The crane is usually used to lift the turbine tower section, nacelle, rotor, and hub. After each component is positioned, the crane will lower it and then help to connect the various components and parts. Lifting and using a turbine component is made easier by the crane's height and reach. Common wind turbine components are large and heavy. A mobile lorry crane with a flatbed can maneuver in the tight space around a wind farm and lift a wind turbine component's weight.
- Landscaping and Tree Care: Landscaping and tree service businesses can use a lorry crane to perform many tasks, such as pruning and removing large trees or installing landscape features like boulders or garden structures. The crane's ability to lift and position heavy items makes it a valuable tool for landscapers and tree care professionals.
- Demolition: A lorry-mounted crane is efficient and versatile for demolition and deconstruction. The lorry crane can maneuver in the tightest spaces and reach extremely high levels of a building. It is often the go-to option for precision demolition on construction sites. The crane can dismantle an entire structure or its parts precisely or demolish it by one without causing significant damage to surrounding areas.
- Transport of Situations: Lorry cranes are used to transporting oversized and heavy loads to construction sites and special events. The load is carried on the flatbed truck, usually at low height. Then, the lorry crane will offload or load the item at its position. Installing a large load in a confined area is made easy by the crane's reach and lifting capability.
- Agricultural Operations: A lorry crane is commonly used in agriculture to lift or move heavy agricultural equipment and machinery. It can also be used to handle crops like pallets of fruits or grain bags.
How to choose a lorry mounted crane
When buying a lorry crane, it is essential to consider various features and parameters to ensure the correct match for particular necessities. Start with the maximum lifting capacity. It is brought up that the capacity should be decided by the normal maximum weight the crane will have to lift, including any extra weight for slings or other lifting gear.
The crane's reach or radius is also an important factor. This is the horizontal distance from the base of the crane to the point where the load is located. Look at the dimensions of the crane and compare them with the dimensions of the lorry and the item that has to be lifted. It's important to see if the crane can easily handle the lifting needs.
Think about how the crane is controlled. Cranes with automatic or remote controls are often easier to use. Also, examine the installation process. Consider the time needed and the easiness of the installation procedure. A crane that is easy to install and remove can save time and money in the long run. Finally, consider the cost of the crane. This includes the purchase price, installation costs, maintenance expenses, and operating costs.
Lorry mounted crane FAQ
Q1: What safety devices are found on a lorry-mounted crane?
A1: The lorry crane has a variety of safety devices, such as overload relays, limit switches, emergency stop buttons, and anti-collision devices. These are designed to avoid accidents, protect the crane itself and ensure the safety of operators and bystanders.
Q2: How does the driver operate the crane on the lorry?
A2: The crane on the lorry is usually controlled by an electronic remote control or a cabin. The driver can control the movement, lifting, and other functions of the crane by way of a remote control. With this, he can carry out operation and adjustment with ease.
Q3: How often should a crane mounted on a lorry be serviced?
A3: Regular maintenance and inspections are important to ensure the proper functioning and safety of the lorry crane. The maintenance and inspection frequency may depend on factors such as usage intensity, operating environment, and manufacturer recommendations. However, it is generally required to carry out regular maintenance and inspections monthly, quarterly or annually according to the specified schedule.
