Truck Mounted Crane
A truck mounted crane, also known as a truck with crane or lorry mounted crane, is a highly versatile piece of equipment that combines the functionality of a truck and a crane. It is designed to lift, transport, and place heavy loads with ease.
Components of a Truck Mounted Crane
Chassis
The chassis of a truck mounted crane is typically a commercial truck chassis, which provides the stability and mobility needed for transporting heavy loads. Popular truck brands such as Dongfeng and FAW are often used for their durability and reliability.
Crane Unit
The crane unit is the heart of the truck mounted crane. It can be either a straight boom crane or a knuckle boom crane.
Straight boom cranes have a telescopic boom that extends in a straight line. They offer a large working radius and are ideal for lifting loads over long distances and in open spaces. For example, they are commonly used in construction sites to lift steel beams and precast concrete elements.
Knuckle boom cranes, on the other hand, have a series of joints that allow the boom to fold and unfold in a more compact manner. They are highly maneuverable and can operate in confined spaces such as narrow city streets or inside factories.
The lifting capacity of a truck mounted crane can range from a few tons to several tens of tons, depending on the model and application.
Cargo Box
The cargo box is used to transport goods. It is usually made of steel and is designed to withstand the weight of the loads being carried. The size and capacity of the cargo box vary depending on the specific needs of the user.
Working Principle of a Truck Mounted Crane
The operation of a truck mounted crane is based on a hydraulic system. When lifting a load, the hydraulic pump supplies pressurized oil to the various cylinders. In the case of a straight boom crane, the telescopic cylinders extend the boom, while the luffing cylinder adjusts the angle of the boom. The hoisting cylinder controls the raising and lowering of the load through a wire rope and hook. For a knuckle boom crane, the hydraulic system controls the movement of the joints to achieve the desired lifting and placement of the load.
Applications of Truck Mounted Cranes
Construction Industry
Truck mounted cranes are widely used in construction projects for lifting and transporting building materials such as steel bars, cement, and prefabricated components. They can also be used for installing heavy machinery and equipment on construction sites.
Logistics and Transportation
In the logistics and transportation industry, truck mounted cranes are ideal for loading and unloading heavy and bulky cargo. They can quickly and efficiently transfer goods from one location to another, reducing the need for additional handling equipment.
Municipal Engineering
Truck mounted cranes are often used in municipal engineering projects for tasks such as installing street lights, traffic signs, and billboards. They can also be used for maintenance and repair work on public facilities.
Considerations for Purchasing a Truck Mounted Crane
Determine the Purpose and Operating Environment
Consider the specific tasks and environments in which the truck mounted crane will be used. If it will be mainly used in open construction sites, a straight boom crane may be more suitable. If it needs to operate in confined spaces, a knuckle boom crane might be the better choice. Additionally, determine the maximum weight and size of the loads that need to be lifted to ensure that the crane's lifting capacity and cargo box size meet your requirements.
Choose a Reputable Brand for Chassis and Crane Unit
Selecting a reliable truck chassis brand and a high-quality crane unit manufacturer is crucial for ensuring the performance and safety of the truck mounted crane. Well-known brands often offer better quality control, after-sales service, and spare parts availability.
Evaluate After-Sales Service
Since truck mounted cranes are complex pieces of equipment, it is important to choose a supplier that offers comprehensive after-sales service. This includes timely maintenance, repair services, and a reliable supply of spare parts to minimize downtime and ensure the longevity of the equipment.