The closer the load is located to the mast, the more weight the crane can lift safely. Note that the maximum load is 18 metric tons, but the crane cannot lift that much weight when the load is positioned at the end of the jib.

Counterweights: 20 tons or 16.3 metric tons.

Maximum lifting power: 19.8 tons or 18 metric tons.

It can reach taller if attached into the building, since the building rises around the crane.

Maximum unsupported height: 265 feet or 80 meters.

Operator’s cabin: Consists of the space in which the operator handles all the functions of the crane.Ī typical tower crane has the following specifications, but note there are differences depending on the model and manufacturer:.

It also contains electronic controls, the cable drum, and concrete counterweights to keep balance.

Machinery arm: A shorter horizontal element that holds the load-lifting motor.

Jib or working arm: A horizontal element that carries the load, with a trolley that runs along its length to move the load in and out.

In turn, the slewing unit consists of three parts: SLEWING UNIT: The slewing unit consists of a gear and motor, attached to the top of the mast, allowing the crane to rotate along its axis. The mast has a large triangulated lattice structure, which gives the crane its strength. MAST OR TOWER: The mast is connected to the base, and it is the supporting structure that gives the crane its height. It is connected to a large concrete foundation that carries the entire weight. Tower cranes in general are composed of three main parts: the base, the mast or tower, and the slewing unit.īASE: The base is the main support of the crane. How can the tower crane stand without tipping over? How is it capable of lifting so much weight? Does the crane become taller along with the building? In this article, the basic principles of tower cranes and their functionality will be discussed.Ĭonstruction management services make the building process safer and more efficient.

Since tower cranes are slender compared with high-rise buildings, their lifting capacity can be easily underestimated based on appearance. Large devices like acetylene torches, motors and generators are also transported using tower cranes. Construction companies use tower cranes to lift heavy materials such as steel and concrete. The skyline of any city will likely include at least a few tower cranes, which are among the largest pieces of equipment used in building projects.

Tower crane load charts