The growing crane count in Australia not only emphasises the country’s active development sector, but also the machinery’s crucial role in Australian construction. However, the needs of a certain job will determine which crane type is best to be used. Two popular crane options are tower cranes and a crane mounted truck – they’re both powerful and efficient, but they also have their unique advantages. In this article, our team at Ultimate Crane Trucks will discuss the key difference between these two crane types, to help you gain a better understanding of which is more suited to your specific needs. 

 

What Is a Crane Mounted Truck?

A crane-mounted truck is a type of mobile crane consisting of a crane mounted onto a truck chassis. This framework allows easy transportation and immediate deployment when needed, making it a popular choice for industries such as construction, utility maintenance, and infrastructure development. 

 

What Is a Tower Crane?

A tower crane is stationary, anchored to the ground or building structure and featuring two essential parts: the mast and the jib. The mast provides the crane with adjustable height based on the project’s needs, while the jib is the horizontal arm of the crane extending out from the mast.

 

Key Differences Between Crane Mounted Trucks and Tower Cranes

  • Height

One of the most obvious differences between these two machines is the maximum height they can reach. Because of limited support and stability, crane mounted trucks typically reach a maximum of 16.5 m. Meanwhile, given that tower cranes are anchored to the ground or building structure for a foundation with more reliable integrity, they can reach up to 70 m high.

  • Size

Crane mounted trucks are smaller, but this gives them an advantage for projects in tight spaces. Also, given that they don’t require extensive foundation work, they can be set up and dismantled quickly. In comparison, tower cranes need large spaces to operate, meaning they can only be used in a restricted number of locations.

  • Adaptability

When it comes to heavy-duty building sites, tower cranes are ideal, however, they have limited usage. On the other hand, crane mounted trucks can be utilised for jobs outside the construction industry, such as transporting furniture or unloading ships at ports.

  • Weight Support

Given their varying weight supports, these two machines can handle vastly different weights. Tower cranes are fixed to a strong support so they can lift far greater loads than crane mounted trucks, which are limited by the internal counterweights at the back of the vehicle.

  • Affordability

Crane mounted trucks are generally more affordable to rent because there is little assembly with them meaning less labour, time, and equipment needed. In contrast, tower cranes need to be built from the ground up, making them more costly since both transportation and assembly fees are required.

 

When Should You Use a Tower Crane or a Crane Mounted Truck?

There are various instances when one is preferable over the other. Here are factors to consider which one fits your project.

  • Limited Spaces

For projects that have no ground space to spare, crane mounted trucks are more practical given their compact build and easy manoeuvrability. They can be easily brought in when needed and driven out of the site when not. 

  • Ground Conditions

Some construction projects are not built on compact, solid ground making the site unconducive for tower cranes. Unstable foundations create a high-risk working environment that may lead to costly accidents or even casualties. For these types of sites, nimble crane mounted trucks are better as they can provide adequate lifting support without the risks.

  • Need for Mobile Equipment

The lifting needs of one project may be confined to one space but other projects may need heavy lifting throughout different locations. For the latter, crane mounted trucks offer a more flexible solution. They allow easy transportation and negates the need to build multiple fixed cranes.

  • Tall Constructions

Tower cranes are more sensible cranes for large structures such as bridges, skyscrapers, and dams. Not only can they accommodate the taller heights of these projects but also have adequate lift capacity for the materials of such projects. 

 

Key Takeaways

Choosing which one to use between these two machines all boils down to application. So aside from considering the factors mentioned above, it’s also important to weigh the project’s overall needs and requirements. With careful consideration, you’ll be able to determine which one can get the job done safely and efficiently for the project. 

For more information about crane mounted trucks or if you’re looking to hire a crane mounted truck, contact us at Ultimate Crane Trucks. Get a free quote today!