As someone who works in construction, you know that several different types of cranes are available to you for each job.
There are so many different crane types because other jobs call for various equipment; if only one type of crane were needed for all jobs, then only one type of crane would exist.
Therefore, for optimum efficiency and your workers’ safety, you must choose the correct type of crane for each specific situation.
If you aren’t sure how to determine which crane is right for your job’s lift plan, read on. The following factors should all come into play when you make your decision.
1. Load Weight
The most obvious and most important factor to consider when choosing the type of crane for a job is the load weight you need to lift. A smaller crane will do the job for a smaller load, but if you plan to lift something heavy, you’ll need a more robust crane.
You might be tempted to use a large crane for any size job, but this will waste time, energy, and money. Cutting corners with a less powerful crane can lead to damage to your materials or, worse yet, injuries or fatal accidents.
Take time to think about the loads you plan to lift and their weight ratings, and use that information to choose the correct crane for the situation.
2. Lift Height
Of course, another crucial factor to consider when choosing a crane is how high you need to lift the load. The higher you plan to lift your materials, the longer the boom on the crane will need to be.
This is another area in which the wrong decision on your part can quickly lead to a dangerous situation. Don’t try to lift an object higher than your chosen crane can handle, or you may drop the load or flip the crane. This is not only extremely dangerous, but it will be a costly mistake as well.
3. Terrain
To lift a heavy weight, you need a stable base. When it comes to lifting things with a crane, you need to make sure the crane base is stabilized firmly on the ground.
If the ground around your project is uneven, you’ll need to choose a crane with a broad support width. However, if the base surface is flat and firm like concrete, a truck-mounted crane should do the trick.
Regardless of the terrain, you should also consider the weather when choosing a crane. Excessive wind or water from rain or snow can cause a crane to become unsteady. Be sure to choose the safest option for your project with these factors in mind.
The Best Type of Crane Depends on Your Job
Remember, the best type of crane for each specific job may differ from past jobs you have completed. It can seem overwhelming to choose the correct crane, but the job, your materials, and the safety of you and your workers depend on it. Make sure you take the time to choose carefully so you can experience the best results without delays, loss, or tragedy.
If you experience difficulty when choosing a crane, please contact us. We’d love to help you make this important decision for any job so you can be both safe and efficient when working on your projects.