The Different Types of Cranes and What They Do

Static Cranes vs. Mobile Cranes

Two of the most common types of cranes are static cranes and mobile cranes. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to choose the right one for the job at hand.

Static cranes are the more traditional type of crane. They are typically used for lifting heavy loads and moving them short distances. Static cranes are not very mobile, so they must be assembled on-site before they can be used. This can be a time-consuming process, but it is usually worth it for the stability and lifting power that static cranes provide.

Mobile cranes as the name suggests are mobile, which means they can be transported to a worksite and set up quickly. Mobile cranes also have the advantage of being able to move around a worksite, which can be helpful when certain areas need to be accessed.

When it comes to choosing between static and mobile cranes, it's important to consider the specific needs of the project. If time is of the essence, then a mobile crane may be the better option. If lifting power is more important, then a static crane may be the better choice. Ultimately, it's up to the team to decide which type of crane is best for the job at hand.

Types of Static Cranes

Overhead Cranes

An overhead crane is the most common type of static crane. It consists of a metal frame that supports a horizontal beam, known as a bridge, that runs along rails installed on the ceiling or walls of the building. The bridge is equipped with a trolley that can move back and forth along the length of the beam. A cable and pulley system is used to raise and lower the trolley, which carries the load. There are several types of overhead cranes, including:

Bridge Crane

A bridge crane is a kind of crane equipment that is specially used to install precast concrete box girders in bridge construction or large span building. The main feature of the bridge crane is that it has a horizontal beam, which can rotate around the column in the middle of the beam. There are many types of bridge cranes according to their different purposes and working conditions, such as single girder bridge cranes, double girder bridge cranes and so on.

Gantry Crane

A gantry crane is similar to a bridge crane, but instead of being supported by rails installed on the ceiling or walls, it is supported by legs that rest on the floor. Gantry cranes are often used outdoors, as they do not require a supporting structure.

Jib Crane

A jib crane consists of a horizontal beam, known as a jib, that is mounted on a wall or floor-mounted pillar. The jib is equipped with a trolley that can move back and forth along the length of the beam. A cable and pulley system is used to raise and lower the trolley, which carries the load.

Monorail Crane

A monorail crane consists of a beam that runs along a single rail installed on the ceiling or walls of the building. The beam is equipped with a trolley that can move back and forth along the length of the rail. A cable and pulley system is used to raise and lower the trolley, which carries the load.

Tower Cranes

Tower cranes are a type of static crane that consists of a tall tower, known as the mast, that is mounted on a concrete base. The mast is equipped with a trolley that can move back and forth along the length of the tower. A cable and pulley system is used to raise and lower the trolley, which carries the load. The height of the tower can be adjusted to reach different levels. There are three different types of tower cranes:

Hammerhead cranes

Hammerhead cranes are a type of tower crane that has a horizontal beam, known as the jib, that extends from the top of the mast. The jib is equipped with a trolley that can move back and forth along the length of the beam. A cable and pulley system is used to raise and lower the trolley, which carries the load.

Luffing cranes

A luffing crane is a type of tower crane that has a jib that can be raised or lowered to reach different heights. The jib is equipped with a trolley that can move back and forth along the length of the beam. A cable and pulley system is used to raise and lower the trolley, which carries the load.

Self-erecting tower cranes

A self-erecting tower crane is a type of tower crane that can be erected without the use of a crane. The mast and jib are assembled on the ground and then raised into position. Once in position, the crane is ready to use.

Level-Luffing Cranes

Level-luffing cranes are a type of crane that is used to raise and lower loads horizontally. The crane consists of a boom, which is attached to a base, and a trolley, which runs along the boom. The trolley has a pulley system that is used to raise and lower the load.



Level-luffing cranes are used in many applications, including construction, mining, and material handling. They are also used in some military applications. Level-luffing cranes have many advantages over other types of cranes. They are able to move loads horizontally, which allows for greater flexibility in how the load is positioned.

Types of Mobile Cranes

Mobile cranes are one of the most popular and useful cranes, as their mobility and lifting power makes them perfect for a variety of projects, including construction. Despite their name, mobile cranes can be used for a variety of tasks, including lifting, moving, and placing heavy objects.

Mobile cranes are available in a wide range of sizes, from small cranes that can be operated by one person to large cranes that require a team of operators. The size of the crane will determine its lifting capacity and the type of projects it can be used for.

There are many different types of mobile cranes, each with its own unique set of features and benefits.

Crawler Cranes

A crawler crane is a heavy-duty machine used for lifting and moving large objects. It consists of a base unit that moves on tracks and a superstructure with a boom that can be raised and lowered. The boom can be extended to increase its reach, and the base unit can be fitted with outriggers to stabilise it when lifting heavy loads.

Rough Terrain Cranes

Rough terrain cranes are a type of mobile crane that is designed for use on rough or uneven ground. It has a shorter boom than a crawler crane, and its tracks are wider, which gives it better stability. Rough terrain crane also has four-wheel drive and tires that are designed for use on rough terrain.

All-Terrain Cranes

An all-terrain crane is a type of mobile crane that is designed for use on both rough and smooth terrain. It has a longer boom than a rough terrain crane, and its tracks are narrower, which makes it more maneuverable. It also has four-wheel drive and tires that are designed for use on both rough and smooth terrain.

A truck-mounted crane is a type of mobile crane that is mounted on a truck chassis. It has a boom that can be raised and lowered, and its base unit can be fitted with outriggers to stabilise it when lifting heavy loads.

Carry Deck Cranes

A carry deck crane is a type of crane that is typically used in construction and industrial applications. These cranes have a very low profile and are able to maneuver in tight spaces. Carry deck cranes are also equipped with a flat-bed platform that can be used to transport materials and equipment.

Conclusion

There are many different types of cranes, each with its own unique set of features and benefits. The type of crane that you'll need will depend on the project that you're working on. If you're not sure which type of crane is right for your project, contact a professional to get more information.

HiLine Cranes is a leading provider of crane hire services. Our team of experienced professionals can help you select the right crane for your project, so get in touch with us today.