Mobile harbour cranes for sale

Types of Mobile Harbour Cranes for Sale

Mobile harbour cranes are versatile port machines that can be moved around the dock area to handle various cargo types. Several designs of mobile harbour cranes exist, each suited to specific operational needs and port environments.

• Rubber-tired mobile harbour crane

  The most common mobile harbour crane design is the rubber-tired or ro-ro crane. This type of crane has wheels that allow it to drive directly onto ships and roll off the cargo it has collected. The wheels enable the crane to move without the need for additional support or infrastructure, as is the case with wheeled cranes. This portability makes the rubber-tired mobile crane well-suited for tasks requiring high levels of flexibility and self-sufficiency. However, it cannot travel quickly over long distances. It is best used at ports where ship access requires the crane to be driven directly onto the boat once full.

• Tractor-towed mobile harbour crane

  The tractor-towed mobile harbour crane, also known as a truck mobile crane, is designed to be towed by a tractor or truck. This type of crane is mounted on a trailer and can be moved short distances over land with a vehicle to pull it. While not as self-sufficient as the ro-ro crane, which drives on its own, the tractor-towed design allows for more rapid land-based transportation between port locations than wheeled cranes. However, the towing vehicle must be able to support the mobile crane's trailer weight, and the crane must be properly secured to the trailer before towing. Despite these limitations, tractor-towed cranes are suitable to serve as mobile Transhipment units when regular port facilities are not available.

• Heavy-duty mobile harbour crane

  Heavy-duty mobile harbour cranes are designed explicitly for handling heavy or extreme duty cargo. These large-capacity cranes can lift and move extremely heavy loads up to 150 tonnes from ships or barges at the port. They are equipped with powerful engines and strong booms that provide the capacity and reliability needed to handle critically heavy and complex jobs. Their high-performance design and rugged construction also enable them to meet the demanding requirements of heavy-duty harbour operations. However, their size and weight will significantly increase transportation costs, limiting some ports' ability to install such equipment.

Specification & Maintenance

Specifications

Below is an overview of the specifications to pay attention to when mobile harbour crane shopping.

• Weight Capacity: The maximum weight an crane can handle is often known as the lifting capacity or the weight capacity. This parameter is usually on the crane's design and controls. One will find it expressed in tons or metric tonnes. The number can range from as low as 5 tons to more than 100 tons.
• Height: This specification indicates how tall the crane is from the base to the top. The height comes into play when deciding how far an object can be moved above the ground. The height also impacts the reach, the maximum distance from the base of the crane where it can move an object sideways.
• Power Source: Mobile harbour cranes can come with different types of power sources. The power source determines how the crane moves and operates. The options available include hydraulic systems, diesel engines, electric motors, and renewable energy systems like solar-electric cranes.
• Controls: The type of control system a mobile harbour crane possesses impacts how operators maneuver it. Various cranes come with different types of control systems. The options available include remote controls, joystick controls, pneumatic controls, and wireless controls. Modern crane models are more likely to come with sophisticated control systems that allow for precise movement and lifting, such as computer-based systems and automated controls.

Maintenance

• Daily Inspections: Carry out daily inspections before starting to identify any visible signs of damage, wear, or leaks. Ensure that all fluid levels are in line with the adjustments and specifications from the manufacturer. Regularly lubricate the crane components to reduce friction and ensure the smooth movement of the crane parts.
• Scheduled Maintenance: Set up a regular scheduled maintenance program. Follow the recommended maintenance schedules for inspections, repairs, fluid changes, and part replacements. Ensure that the crane lifting mechanism goes through regular inspections and tests. The goal is to identify any abnormalities, wear and tear, and damage early enough and address them on time.
• Safety Practices: Adhere to the proper safety practices. When the time comes to lift, move, or lower loads, follow the recommended practices. This tip helps to reduce unnecessary strain on the crane. Ensure workers focus on staying within the weight limits of the crane to avoid damaging or shortening its lifespan.

Scenarios

Mobile harbour cranes play an essential role in various industries and scenarios that require the handling of heavy and bulky goods, especially at the seaside and waterways.

• Ports and Terminals: Mobile harbour cranes are the mainstay of loading and unloading containers, bulk goods and heavy cargo ships at ports and terminals. Their flexibility allows them to quickly adapt to different types of ships and cargo, making them an indispensable part of maritime logistics.
• Bulk Handling: Mobile harbour cranes excel in handling bulk materials such as coal, ore, grains, cement, etc. at specialised terminal ports. They can load and unload bulk goods quickly with high efficiency and accuracy using different types of grab buckets.
• Heavy Industries: Mobile harbour cranes are frequently used in heavy industries such as shipbuilding, metal processing and manufacturing. They handle heavy and oversized equipment, such as heavy machine parts, industrial assemblies, etc., which require the use of top blocks, spreaders and other accessories to meet specific handling needs.
• Construction: Mobile harbour cranes are used in construction projects near the coast or along rivers. They are used to transport construction materials, machinery and equipment from ships or barges to land.
• Energy Sector: Mobile harbour cranes play an important role in energy industries such as wind power and oil and gas. At offshore wind farm construction sites, they are responsible for installing wind turbine components. In oil and gas sectors, they handle equipment and materials related to offshore platforms and oil rigs.
• Temporary Events: Mobile harbour cranes can be used at temporary events such as exhibitions, concerts and sports competitions. They can set up temporary stages, stands and facilities by transporting heavy equipment and materials from ships to land within a limited period.
• Emergency Response: Mobile harbour cranes can be used for emergency relief and rescue operations in natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods or typhoons. They can rapidly transport relief supplies, equipment and personnel by temporarily establishing logistic hubs at the affected areas through ships.

How to Choose Mobile Harbour Cranes for Sale

Business buyers looking to invest in mobile harbour cranes for sale need to look at certain features and specifications to ensure they get the right equipment for their purposes.

• Operation Mechanism

  The lifting mechanism of the crane must match the type of cargo the business operates. For example, if transporting containers, a crane with a specialized attachment like a spreader should be considered. The spreader will ensure safe stacking and unstacking of the containers.

• Load Capacity and Reach

  Select cranes with load capacities that match the weights of the heaviest items in the inventory. However, it is also important to consider future needs. A crane with a higher capacity than currently needed should be considered if expansion is on the horizon. Additionally, the outreach of the crane must be sufficient to access ships and barges at the furthest mooring points.

• Port Suitability

  The type of crane suited for a particular port will depend on the kind of vessels that normally dock. For example, RoRo cranes are usually used in ports where ships with ramp facilities dock. On the other hand, floating cranes will be employed in ports where there are no berthing facilities. Therefore, it is important to consider the most suitable crane for the location of the business.

• Number of Cranes

  A standalone mobile harbour crane will be worked harder than one used in conjunction with several other cranes. Businesses should consider the intensity of daily work the crane will undergo. According to the frequency of use, a higher capacity crane may be required at a standalone location. However, a lower capacity crane may suffice when working together with several other cranes.

• Age and Condition

  For second-hand mobile harbour cranes, the age and condition of the crane must be evaluated. Important components like hydraulic systems and drivetrains should be inspected closely for signs of damage or wear. An extensive servicing history will give some assurance about the condition of the crane.

• Spare Parts Availability

  Products of popular brands are usually more readily available and easier to replace. Consider the availability of spare parts for the crane to ensure quick and affordable servicing during downtime.

Mobile harbour cranes for sale FAQ

Q1. What is the difference between mobile harbour cranes and other types of cranes?

A1. Mobile harbour cranes are versatile cranes that can move across the port or harbour. They are locomotives, mobile wheeled cranes and mobile cranes. They are different from fixed cranes like the harbour crane or gantry crane because of their mobility. They are also different from floating cranes that cannae move from water vessels.

Q2. What are the benefits of using a mobile harbour crane?

A2. Mobility is one of the top benefits of using a mobile harbour crane. They can easily reposition themselves in the port or harbour. These cranes are also very versatile. They can handle different types of loads, from containers to bulk materials, and execute various, including stacking, transferring and unloading tasks. They are easily adjustable to different load sizes. They also have fast crane speeds that improve work efficiency.

Q3. What is the maximum lifting capacity of mobile harbour cranes?

A3. The lifting capacity of mobile harbour cranes ranges from 100 tons to 200 tons.

Q4. What are the trends affecting the mobile harbour crane industry?

A4. The mobile harbour crane industry is influenced by demand drivers and substitution trends. Demand for mobile harbour cranes use to offload and export bulk minerals, especially coal, in the African and Asian markets. There is also consistent demand for mobile harbour cranes in import-based economies like the United States that import goods in containers.