Top 10 Tower Crane Brand & Manufacturers

What is Tower Crane

A tower crane is a fixed - position crane that consists of a vertical mast (or tower) and a horizontal jib (or boom). It is designed to lift and move heavy loads vertically and horizontally over a construction site or other work areas. Tower cranes are a common sight on large - scale construction projects such as high - rise buildings, bridges, and power plants.

History of Tower Crane

• Early Origins: The concept of tower cranes dates back to the late 19th century. The first tower cranes were developed to meet the demands of industrial construction and the growth of cities. They were initially used for lifting heavy machinery and building materials in factories and ports.
• Advancements in Design: Over the years, tower crane designs have evolved significantly. The use of stronger materials like high - strength steel has allowed for taller and more robust crane structures. The development of advanced mechanical and electrical systems, such as better hoisting mechanisms and slewing drives, has improved their lifting capabilities and precision.
• Modern Developments: In modern times, tower cranes have seen numerous technological improvements. Computer - controlled systems have been integrated to enhance safety and operational efficiency. These systems can monitor the crane's movements, load capacity, and other parameters. Additionally, features such as anti - collision systems and remote - monitoring capabilities have become more common.

Purpose of Tower Crane

• High - Rise Construction: Tower cranes are essential for the construction of tall buildings. They are used to lift and position heavy building materials such as steel beams, concrete columns, and pre - cast elements to great heights. Their ability to cover a large vertical and horizontal area makes them ideal for this type of construction.
• Bridge and Infrastructure Construction: In the construction of bridges and other large - scale infrastructure projects, tower cranes are used to handle heavy components such as bridge girders and large - scale concrete segments. They provide the necessary lifting power and precision to position these components accurately.
• Industrial Applications: Tower cranes are also used in industrial settings such as power plants and large factories. They can lift and move heavy machinery and equipment during installation, maintenance, and repair operations.

Principle of Tower Crane

• Lifting Mechanism: The hoisting mechanism of a tower crane is usually powered by an electric motor. The motor drives a drum that winds or unwinds a wire rope. As the rope is wound, the load attached to the hook is lifted, and as it is unwound, the load is lowered. The hoist is mounted on a trolley that can move along the jib (boom), allowing the load to be positioned horizontally.
• Slewing and Trolley Movement: The crane's jib can rotate around the mast in a horizontal plane, a movement known as slewing. This is typically powered by a slewing motor and a gear mechanism. The trolley movement along the jib is also motor - driven. These two movements, along with the hoisting action, give the tower crane three - dimensional movement capabilities, enabling it to access different parts of the work area.
• Stability and Support: The vertical mast of the tower crane provides the necessary height and stability. The base of the mast is usually anchored to a concrete foundation to withstand the heavy loads and forces generated during lifting and slewing. Counterweights are often installed on the opposite side of the jib to balance the load and prevent the crane from tipping over.
• Control Systems: Modern tower cranes are equipped with advanced control systems. The operator uses a control panel, which can be located in a cabin at the base or top of the crane, to manipulate the hoisting, slewing, and trolley movements. These controls include buttons, joysticks, or touch - screen interfaces. Safety features such as limit switches, overload protection, and anti - collision systems are integral parts of the control setup.

Features of Tower Crane

• Lifting Capacity: Tower cranes come in a wide range of lifting capacities, from a few tons to hundreds of tons. The lifting capacity depends on factors such as the size and strength of the mast and jib, the power of the hoisting and slewing motors, and the design of the counterweight system. High - capacity tower cranes are used for heavy - duty construction projects.
• Height and Reach: They can achieve remarkable heights, sometimes exceeding several hundred feet. The length of the jib also provides a significant horizontal reach, allowing the crane to cover a large area. The combination of height and reach makes tower cranes suitable for projects with extensive vertical and horizontal lifting requirements.[!--empirenews.page--]
• Speed and Precision: Tower cranes can operate at different speeds for hoisting, slewing, and trolley movement. The speed can be adjusted according to the nature of the task and the type of load. They are capable of precise positioning of loads, which is crucial for construction tasks that require accurate placement of materials and components.
• Safety Features: These cranes are equipped with a variety of safety features. Limit switches prevent the hoist from over - winding, the trolley from over - traveling along the jib, and the jib from over - slewing. Overload protection systems monitor the load weight and prevent the crane from operating if the load exceeds its rated capacity. Anti - collision systems use sensors to detect nearby objects and other cranes to avoid collisions.
• Modular and Customizable Design: Tower cranes often have a modular design, allowing for easier transportation and assembly. They can also be customized to some extent, such as adding different types of hoists, jib extensions, or special attachments to handle specific types of loads, like clamshell buckets for handling loose materials.

Types of Tower Crane

• Top - Slewing Tower Crane: In this type, the jib and the machinery house are located at the top of the mast. The slewing mechanism is also at the top. Top - slewing tower cranes are known for their stability and high lifting capacity. They are commonly used in high - rise construction and other heavy - lifting applications.
• Bottom - Slewing Tower Crane: Here, the slewing mechanism is located at the base of the mast. Bottom - slewing tower cranes are generally more compact and have a lower profile. They are suitable for smaller construction sites or projects with limited space.
• Luffing - Jib Tower Crane: Luffing - jib tower cranes have a jib that can be raised and lowered (luffed). This allows them to work in areas with limited overhead space or in situations where the crane needs to avoid obstacles. They are often used in congested urban construction sites or near airports.

Precautions for using Tower Crane

• Operator Training: The operator of a tower crane must be properly trained. Training should cover the operation of the crane's controls, understanding of the crane's capabilities and limitations, safety procedures, and how to handle different types of loads. Only trained and certified operators should be allowed to use the tower crane to ensure safe and efficient operation.
• Pre - Operation Inspection: Before each use, a thorough inspection of the tower crane should be carried out. This includes checking the mast, jib, and all mechanical and electrical components for any signs of damage or wear. The wire ropes, hoist, slewing mechanism, and trolley should also be inspected. Any issues found should be addressed before operating the crane.
• Load Limitations: It is crucial to adhere to the rated lifting capacity of the tower crane. Overloading can lead to structural failure and accidents. The weight of the load should be accurately determined before lifting, and any load that exceeds the crane's capacity should not be attempted. Additionally, the position of the load relative to the crane's center of rotation and the counterweights should be carefully considered to ensure stable lifting.
• Site Conditions and Clearances: The construction site must be properly prepared to accommodate the tower crane. Adequate clearances should be maintained around the crane to prevent collisions with other structures or equipment. The foundation of the crane must be strong enough to support the loads and forces exerted during operation. Consider factors such as wind loads and soil conditions when setting up the crane.
• Maintenance and Cleaning: Regular maintenance is essential to keep the tower crane in good working condition. This includes routine checks of the mechanical components, lubrication of moving parts, inspection of electrical systems, and replacement of worn - out parts such as wire ropes and bearings. After use, clean the crane to remove dirt, debris, and any corrosive substances that could affect its performance and lifespan.

Things to consider when purchasing Tower Crane

• Project Requirements: Consider the specific needs of your construction project. Determine the maximum weight of the loads you need to lift, the required height and reach, and the type of work area (e.g., congested urban site or open construction site). This will help you select the appropriate type of tower crane (e.g., top - slewing, bottom - slewing, or luffing - jib) with the correct lifting capacity and dimensions.
• Budget: Establish a budget for the tower crane purchase. The cost can vary significantly depending on the type, size, and features of the crane. Consider not only the initial purchase price but also the long - term costs such as maintenance, energy consumption, and the cost of replacement parts. Look for a crane that offers good value for money within your budget.[!--empirenews.page--]
• Brand and Reputation: Choose a reputable brand with a good track record in the industry. A well - known brand is more likely to provide reliable and durable equipment. Read customer reviews and ask for recommendations from other users or industry professionals to assess the quality and performance of different tower cranes.
• Technical Support and Spare Parts Availability: Ensure that the manufacturer provides good technical support and has a reliable supply of spare parts. Quick access to technical assistance and spare parts can minimize downtime in case of equipment failures and is crucial for the smooth operation of your construction project.
• Features and Safety: Look at the features and safety mechanisms of the tower crane. Consider whether it has the necessary speed control, limit switches, overload protection, and anti - collision systems. Also, think about the crane's modularity and customization options to meet your specific work requirements.

Terms of Tower Crane

• Lifting Capacity (Rated Load): The maximum weight that the tower crane is designed to lift safely. It is a critical specification and should be selected based on the heaviest loads you anticipate lifting. Exceeding the rated load can lead to equipment damage and safety hazards.
• Height and Reach Specifications: The maximum height the crane can reach and the horizontal reach of the jib. These dimensions are important for determining whether the crane can cover the required work area and lift materials to the necessary heights for your project.
• Power Source and Consumption: The power source of the tower crane, usually an electric power supply with a specific voltage and current rating. The power consumption affects the operating costs and the electrical requirements of your construction site. Some cranes may also have energy - efficient features to reduce power consumption.
• Speed (Hoisting, Slewing, and Trolley): The speeds at which the crane can perform its various functions, such as lifting, rotating, and moving the trolley. These speeds affect the efficiency of the crane and should be considered based on the nature of your lifting operations.
• Warranty and Service Agreement: The warranty offered by the manufacturer and the terms of the service agreement, including what is covered, for how long, and the availability of technical support and spare parts. A comprehensive warranty and service agreement can protect your investment and provide peace of mind during the operation of the tower crane.