Lattice boom crawler cranes, also known as crawler cranes, are the largest type of mobile cranes available in the construction industry. They’re so large that they often need to be disassembled, transported in pieces, and then reassembled on site. Once a crew has put together a crawler crane, it usually stays on the worksite for the duration of the job. Due to their size and power, crawler cranes can transport, hoisting, and move heavy loads easily. Despite being so large, this type of crane can be used on several types of terrain, including soft ground. This helps make crawler cranes one of the most versatile pieces of heavy equipment on a worksite. Learn more about the lattice boom crawler crane evolution. Find out how you can start working with them.
Parts of Lattice Boom Crane
Have you ever wondered what gives crawler cranes their incredible lifting power? Below you can see how each part works together to lift and stabilize heavy loads. Let’s take a look at the parts of a lattice boom crane.
Lattice Boom
To give crawler cranes booms extreme strength while minimizing weight, they are made from steel and welded in a “W” or “V” pattern.
Counterweight
As you hoist or lift up a heavy load, a counterweight offsets the weight of the load. You can remove and add counterweights to adjust the crawler crane’s load capacity.
Tracks
Crawler cranes utilize wide tracks for stability and mobility. However, you can not move as quickly using tracks when compared to tires. Due to the use of tracks, crawler cranes typically require a smooth surface for operation.
Jib
Similar to booms, jibs are an extension of the crane’s main body. However, jibs give a crawler crane extra reach while reducing load capacity. For this reason, jibs can be removed or added on when needed.
Undercarriage
You can find the tracks of a crawler crane mounted on the undercarriage.
Upper Carriage
The upper carriage or upper works is where you can find the operator’s cab, engine, anchors, and boom.
Load Blocks
When you are ready to lift a load, you’ll need to attach it to the load block or hook block. This part of the crawler crane is made of steel to help keep tension in the wire rope.
How to Become a Crane Operator?
How Do They Work
After seeing what the individual parts of a lattice boom crawler crane do, it’s time to see how they work together. A basic crawler crane comprises a cab mounted on the undercarriage, where the tracks are located. The upper carriage, where you would find the cab, can rotate a full 360 degrees. This allows the operator to maneuver loads easily. When an operator is maneuvering or transporting a load on-site, the crawler crane tracks help it remain stable without the need for outriggers. The lattice boom, which is lighter than a typical boom, allows crane operators to have a wider operating radius. Each of these components makes constructing large structures much easier.
Advancement in Crane Tech
New features and technology have sparked the lattice boom crawler crane evolution. From self-assembly and in-cab display panels to user-friendly controls, today’s crawler cranes are ready to be put to the test. One of the advancements in crane technology is the Remote Observation Satellite System, also known as (KCross). This feature allows for remote machine monitoring. A user will be shown daily reports regarding fuel use, idle time, travel time, and other important details.
Infrastructure, Energy Drive Demand for Lattice Boom Crawler Cranes
With all that crawler cranes are capable of, it’s not a surprise that they’re found in several sectors and industries. The need for crawler cranes and other heavy-duty machines has remained steady due to the sentry sector, construction, and maintenance of public buildings, roads, bridges, and more. With an infrastructure plan recently announced by the current administration, more resources will be put into fixing America’s infrastructure. Demand for crawler cranes means demand for operators. After all, these machines don’t operate on their own.
Get Enrolled at HEC
Don’t just read about lattice boom crawler crane evolution; learn how to operate one, and start your career in the heavy equipment industry. HEC has a lattice boom crawler crane course where you’ll learn all the necessary information to succeed in the field. Get crane safety training from our expert instructors and complete courses at HEC in as little as three weeks. We have campuses across the country, with two campuses dedicated to active duty service members and veterans. Find one near you. Let us help you discover a rewarding career. Start by applying to one of our programs today.
