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Construction cranes are some of the tallest machines on any job site, often rising hundreds of feet into the air. Many people assume they arrive fully built, but that’s not the case. In reality, cranes are assembled piece by piece through a carefully planned process designed for strength, balance, and safety. If you are interested in how construction cranes are erected, then we are here to explain the process clearly.
Aside from the set ups, if you are thinking of hiring a crane company for your needs or actually getting into a team like ours, get in touch today and we will help you the best we can!
What Type of Construction Cranes Are We Talking Of?
When people think about cranes towering over city skylines, they are usually looking at tower cranes. Tower cranes are a powerful kind and have a lot to offer. Their set ups can be a long process taking roughly 2-5 days and are of course done in sections. Further inspections may be needed after erection. The kinds of work you can expect these cranes to be erected for are:
- Apartment towers
- Office skyscrapers
- Hotels and mixed-use developments
- Hospitals
- Universities
- Airports
- Convention centers
Why are tower cranes used?
There are many reasons tower cranes are used for construction work. Tower cranes are used on large construction projects because they can lift heavy materials to great heights while taking up very little space. They are commonly used on high-rise and commercial builds where a fixed crane can remain on site for long periods. Their ability to grow taller as construction progresses makes them efficient, stable, and well suited for dense urban environments.
So, How Are Construction Cranes Erected?
Step 1: Preparing the foundation
The process begins with constructing a reinforced concrete foundation. This base is engineered to support the crane’s weight and the loads it will lift. Once poured, the concrete must cure and pass inspection before assembly begins.
Step 2: Assembling the mast
Next, a mobile crane lifts and stacks the vertical mast sections. Each section is bolted securely into place, creating the tall central tower that gives the crane its height.
Step 3: Installing the slewing unit and jib
The rotating unit is installed on top of the mast, followed by the horizontal jib and counter-jib. Counterweights are added to balance the crane and allow it to lift heavy materials safely.
Step 4: Testing and certification
Before the crane is put into service, it undergoes thorough inspections and load testing. This ensures the crane meets safety standards and operates correctly.
Step 5: Climbing the crane as the building rises
As construction progresses, the crane can be raised higher using a self-climbing system. New mast sections are added beneath the crane, allowing it to grow along with the building.
How To Ensure The Process Is Safe?
Crane erection is carefully planned and carried out by trained professionals following strict safety procedures. Before work begins, our engineers create detailed erection plans that account for load limits, ground conditions, and weather.
During assembly, ourselves at NMT Crane Hire, install each crane section in a controlled sequence, with every connection checked for alignment and strength. Wind conditions are closely monitored, and work is paused if conditions become unsafe.
Once the crane is erected, it undergoes inspections and testing before being approved for use. These steps ensure the crane can operate safely throughout the project.
Need Us For Professional Crane Support?
If you are asking yourself “How are construction cranes erected?” and need our help setting up cranes or to discuss a project with our team, then get in touch with us today and we will be more than happy to help. We have decades of experience and have become highly trusted in several areas – trust us as professionals!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all construction cranes follow the same erection process?
No. This process applies to tower cranes. Other cranes, such as mobile cranes, arrive mostly assembled and require less setup.
How are tower cranes dismantled?
Tower cranes are dismantled in reverse order, often using a mobile crane or by lowering sections using the crane’s own systems.
Is crane erection dangerous?
Crane erection is a controlled process carried out by trained professionals using strict safety procedures and inspections.