Experts from the construction equipment sales company PFE "Modus" explained how to properly choose heavy equipment.
What to pay attention to when choosing a truck crane
This is a classic choice for large-scale construction. It is a large truck with a tall crane installed and a special enclosed operator's cab from which it is controlled. To choose the right model, you need to pay attention to the following indicators:
- lifting capacity – this characteristic is measured in tons and reflects the maximum weight that the equipment can lift and move. Before buying a truck crane, it is important to measure the weight of the heaviest objects you plan to work with. Also consider their dimensions to avoid an emergency situation where an oversized object being moved hits the crane or the main structure;
- keep in mind that the weight at the minimum and maximum boom reach differs. For example, the Palfinger Sany SPC 250 truck crane at a minimum reach of 3 meters can lift 25 tons, and at the maximum reach of 28 meters – 0.52 tons;
- stability – choose a truck crane based on the area and surface features where the work will take place. The equipment comes in different sizes, is mounted on truck or all-terrain chassis, and is equipped with outriggers for stability on the ground.
How to choose a knuckle boom crane
The first and main difference is that a knuckle boom crane is much more mobile and maneuverable. It does not take up the entire truck bed, allowing the vehicle not only to load and unload, for example, construction materials, but also to transport them from point A to point B.
"Of course, the improved maneuverability has affected power – the manipulator lifts less weight (up to 13 tons) and to a lower height (no more than 21 meters)," noted experts from PFE "Modus".
These cranes come in two types, namely:
- L-shaped or cable – equipped with a straight telescopic boom with a hook on a cable suspension. Its advantages include high speed of operation at great heights, more precise positioning of the load, and the ability to lower it to a point below ground level;
- Z-shaped or hydraulic – has an articulated design with several "knees". In addition to taking up less space, this crane allows the object being moved to go around various obstacles.
After choosing the appropriate type of machine, select the optimal lifting capacity using the same principles as with truck cranes. The competitive advantages of these two machines are obvious - power versus mobility. Accordingly, the KMC is suitable for working in confined spaces and with light to medium-weight objects. For larger projects, a truck crane is preferable.
