Lifting cranes have helped us in many ways since they were first introduced. We use them for almost all large infrastructures and are paramount to the construction industry. They make hauling heavy loads much easier and allow us to do things we previously weren’t able to. Perhaps you have been wondering how these heavy pieces of machinery first came about, or what famous buildings they have been used on.
In this blog, we’ll discuss things you may not have known about lifting cranes.
Cranes date back to Ancient Greece
You may not believe it but cranes actually date back to the Ancient Greeks between 500 and 700 B.C. Other civilisations such as the Egyptians and Romans are also known to have used simple versions of lifting cranes. Early versions of cranes were created using wooden beams attached to cylindrical drums and a rotating base. It used a rope and pulley system that used either human or animal strength to carry heavy loads.
Cranes are made of 9 main parts
Every crane is made up of 9 main parts that help them to move heavy loads. There are some variations but most cranes are typically made from the following:
- Concrete foundation - Helps maintain stability.
- Boom - The lengthy main lever arm.
- Jib - Improves the reach of mobile and fixed cranes, extending from the boom.
- Hook - Hold and lift heavy loads.
- Hoist - On the crane’s jib and facilitates the crane's lifting mechanism.
- Cab - Crane operator’s control room.
- Counterweights and outriggers - Weights positioned at the back.
- Tower peak - Highest point of the crane for attaching the jib.
- Wheels or tracks - For traversing roads or landscapes.
The most powerful crane can lift over 22,000 tonnes
There are many different types of cranes available all being able to lift various different weights. Some cranes in particular are able to perform different tasks. The tallest telescopic crane in the world, the Liebherr LTM 11200-9.1, has a boom length of 100 meters and can hoist 1,200 tonnes over 188 metres. The Taisun Crane used at Yantai Raffles Shipyard in China has lifted the heaviest recorded weight of 20,133 tonnes.
Do you need crane lifting services in Cornwall? Macsalvors Plant Hire Ltd is here to help. With an extensive range of plant hire equipment, we’re one of the best plant hire companies in the UK. Get in touch today.
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