Differences Between Tower Cranes and Mobile Construction Cranes

by Larry Peck

Most of the time, project managers will have to make tough decisions when it comes to choosing the type of cranes for a project. Even though there are projects where the type of cranes to be used depends on project specifications, most projects typically require a mobile crane, because it saves money and time. Before you decide to choose either a mobile crane or a tower crane, we advise you to consider the factors discussed in this article, but first, let’s understand what a tower and mobile cranes are:

  • Tower Crane

A fixed crane is a typical fixture established at a construction site. Just as the name suggests, a tower crane is attached to the ground. It is sturdy enough to provide support when lifting and lowering loads. The crane exchanges the movement for the ability to carry more significant items and erect to greater heights because of the stability. Other types of cranes function the same as tower cranes. They include hammerhead cranes, level luffing, gantry, loader, and stacker.

  • Mobile Constructions Cranes

The difference between mobile cranes and tower cranes is that the former is more practical. They are fast and easy to install, as well as to dismantle. Unlike fixed towers, they can different types of tasks. Mobile cranes are available in various types including aerial, rough terrain, side-lift, crawler, carry crane, floating, railroad, and truck-mounted. A mobile crane comprises of chains, wire rope drum, a truss attached on a mobile platform, and a control panel.

Mobile construction crane

Comparisons Between Tower Cranes and Mobile Construction Cranes

  • Setup time

There are many steps involved in setting up a tower crane as opposed to a mobile crane. If you want a sturdy machine that you can quickly, then use a mobile crane. With a mobile crane, you can fasten and secure the entire unit in no time. Unlike mobile cranes, a tower crane needs a lot of time to prepare and set all sections. The mobile crane allows you to start your project faster and complete faster.

Mobile crane
  • Flexibility

Even though there are some benefits to both the tower and mobile cranes, the former has more limitations once you install it. While a mobile crane is available in different sizes and types, it can be straightforward from having a small boom fixed to a base right through to a more complicated rig with several attachments.

With flexibility and mobility at your disposal, you can easily navigate around various obstructions which is a common thing in construction sites. Also, a mobile crane can penetrate through narrow channels and can access sites with limited access. Conversely, a tower crane has limited options, in which they can be set up.

  • Versatility

A mobile crane is more versatile than a tower crane. On the other hand, a tower crane is perfect for lifting massive duty construction sites because they have fewer applications. The design of a mobile crane enables it to lift heavy loads in a construction site, and other uses too. Additionally, mobile cranes can fit into tiny spaces and larger structures for precision lifts. You can also use mobile cranes to lift storage containers, moving furniture, and pools.

  • Space

Construction sites have limited space, not like in the past. Today, specialists need to install the crate in compact and urban places. So, for a smaller space, then a mobile crane is the ideal option because they only take a minuscule space, which is a small percentage a tower crane requires.

  • Durability
Tower Crane

Do not be fooled by the size. Mobile cranes have a smaller size than tower cranes, but they can equally lift loads as tower cranes. Due to advancement in technology, you can attach different components to increase the reaching and lifting capacity of the mobile cranes.

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