Piles may be required to anchor the base to bed rock. Self supporting tower cranes are anchored at the base with a weight or reinforced concrete block. Mast Type – Self Supporting Tower CranesĪ self supporting mast type is a typical tower crane that is put to use in shorter structures where tower extensions are not required. Instead they are operated by remote control which is either wired or wireless. Derrick cranes are unique because often times they do not have a cab for an operator. They are assembled in pieces and are often used to either assemble or disassemble tower cranes. Derrick cranes are unique in nature because of their outriggers which allow them to sit on a surface. These cranes are unique in nature as their size is typically designed to sit on rooftops or small spaces. Similar in nature to the luffing jib type you can think of Derrick cranes as their little brother. This movement allows them to fit within tight spaces which is why you often see luffing jib cranes within downtown urban environments. Unlike the hammerhead crane, the diagonal arm can move in and out (from vertical to a 30 degree angle).

The crane counter weights are located closer to the tower, when combined with the angled arm the luffing jib tower crane typically has a higher capacity then the hammerhead crane. Unlike the hammerhead the hook point is located off the end of the jib. The crane is recognizable due to its diagonal arm which extends out from the top of the mast (tower) on an angle. Luffing Jib Tower CraneĪ luffing jib tower crane, often called just a luffing or luffer crane is another common type of construction tower crane. This allows the hook position to be in any position along the mast. A trolley runs along the mast horizontally carrying the cable and hook. The hammerhead tower crane is recognizable through it’s vertical mast (tower) with a horizontal jib which supports both the cab. Self Supporting Tower Cranes (Mast Type)Ī hammerhead tower crane is a common type of tower crane found on construction projects throughout the world.What Are The Different Types of Construction Tower Cranes?īy driving through a city like Toronto or New York you will quickly realize that tower cranes come in many different shapes and sizes.

Lift planning luffing jib tower crane