Published at March 12, 2025 by InfraJunction
Cranes have been used in construction for thousands of years. The ancient Greeks are believed to have invented the first crane around 515 BC. Some reports suggest that even earlier, ancient Mesopotamians used a similar system for water irrigation. If many historical structures were built today, cranes would be necessary for their construction.
The Industrial Revolution brought major changes, replacing the manual pulley system with engine-powered cranes operated by workers. Today, cranes are a common sight at construction sites, with different types designed for specific tasks.
However, choosing the right crane can be difficult because there are so many options. Using the wrong one can lead to project delays and extra costs. Understanding the differences between cranes will help you pick the right one for your needs.
To make this easier, we have explained the different types of cranes (mobile and fixed) and their uses below.
A crane is a machine used to lift, lower, and move heavy objects. It works with the help of pulleys, cables, and a boom. Different cranes are designed for different jobs. Some are fixed in one place, while others can move around easily. Cranes play a key role in industries like construction, shipping, and manufacturing.
India has a growing demand for different types of cranes. Some of the types of crane in India used widely are:
There are many types of crane available today. Each type is made for a specific task. Below are some of the most commonly used cranes across different industries:
Jib cranes are small lifting devices used in workshops and factories. They have a horizontal arm (jib) fixed on a vertical support. These cranes are useful for lifting light to medium loads in small spaces. They are commonly seen in manufacturing plants and garages where quick lifting and movement of objects are required. The arm can rotate to provide flexibility, making them highly efficient for small-scale lifting jobs.
Tower cranes are tall and fixed structures used in cranes for construction. They help in lifting heavy materials like concrete, steel, and large machinery. These cranes are seen on large building projects, helping to move materials to great heights. Due to their height and strength, they are crucial for skyscraper construction. The base of the tower crane is firmly fixed to the ground, ensuring stability even when handling extremely heavy loads at high altitudes.
Heavy-duty cranes are designed to handle extremely heavy loads. These cranes are used in industries like shipbuilding, steel plants, and large construction projects. They are built to lift materials that normal cranes cannot handle. The structure of these cranes is reinforced with strong steel components, and they are equipped with advanced hydraulic systems to enhance their lifting power. These cranes often work in extreme conditions, such as shipyards or large-scale manufacturing units.
Truck cranes are mobile cranes mounted on a truck. They can travel on roads and reach different work sites quickly. These cranes are useful for lifting and moving loads over short distances. They are commonly used in infrastructure projects. Their mobility allows them to be easily transported to different locations without requiring separate transport equipment. They have extendable booms that help in reaching different heights, making them highly versatile in various industries.
Telescopic cranes have a boom with multiple sections that extend and retract. This feature allows them to reach different heights. These cranes are used in rescue operations, construction, and maintenance work. The telescopic feature provides added flexibility, making it easier to handle complex lifting operations. They are particularly useful in urban environments where space is limited but high-reaching capability is required.
Floor cranes are small, mobile cranes used in workshops and warehouses. They help in lifting and placing materials in confined spaces. These cranes are easy to operate and require less space. They are often used in mechanical workshops, where they assist in lifting engines, machinery, and other heavy components. The compact design allows them to be maneuvered into tight spaces, making them highly efficient for indoor operations.
Gantry cranes are large cranes with a bridge-like structure. They are used in shipyards, factories, and warehouses for lifting heavy loads. These cranes move on rails and can handle a wide range of materials. The structure consists of a horizontal beam supported by two strong legs, making it ideal for lifting shipping containers and large industrial components. They can be customized in different sizes based on the specific needs of an industry.
Construction cranes include different types of crane in India used for building projects. They help in moving construction materials like steel, bricks, and concrete. Tower cranes, mobile cranes, and crawler cranes fall under this category. These cranes are vital for large-scale construction projects, as they allow workers to transport materials efficiently across different levels of a site. Their robust design ensures safety while lifting and moving heavy loads.
Marine cranes are designed for use on ships and ports. They help in loading and unloading cargo from ships. These cranes are strong and resistant to harsh weather conditions. They are commonly used in offshore oil rigs, ship maintenance, and dock operations. Marine cranes come in different sizes and configurations, including fixed, knuckle boom, and telescopic models, allowing them to handle various marine tasks effectively.
Overhead cranes are fixed cranes used in factories and warehouses. They move heavy materials along a fixed track. These cranes increase productivity and reduce manual effort. They are often seen in steel mills, power plants, and automotive factories where continuous lifting and movement of materials are required. Overhead cranes can be operated manually or with remote controls, making them convenient and efficient for industrial use.
Deck cranes are used on ships for loading and unloading cargo. They are mounted on the deck of a ship and help in handling heavy goods at sea. These cranes are specifically designed to withstand marine environments and are equipped with anti-corrosion materials. They play a crucial role in maritime logistics, ensuring smooth operations in loading and unloading cargo without needing external lifting equipment.
Terrain cranes are designed to work on rough and uneven surfaces. These cranes are used in difficult environments like oil fields, rocky lands, and forest areas. They are equipped with special tires and suspension systems that allow them to operate in off-road conditions. Their powerful engines and hydraulic lifting mechanisms enable them to handle heavy loads in remote locations, making them essential for infrastructure development in difficult terrains.
Mobile cranes are among the most useful crane in India. They can move easily from one place to another. These cranes are used in various industries, from construction to rescue operations. They are highly flexible and can be deployed quickly to different locations. Mobile cranes have multiple attachment options, allowing them to perform different types of lifting tasks efficiently. Their ease of transportation makes them highly popular across various industries.
Crawler cranes use tracks instead of wheels. They are powerful and can work on rough surfaces. These cranes are ideal for heavy lifting in large construction projects. The tracks provide added stability, allowing them to work on uneven ground without the risk of tipping over. Crawler cranes are commonly used in large-scale projects such as bridge construction, wind turbine installation, and infrastructure development.
Cranes are used in different industries for various purposes. Some of the main use of crane include:
The most useful crane in India depends on the industry. Mobile cranes, tower cranes, and crawler cranes are some of the most in-demand cranes in the country. These cranes help in making construction and industrial work easier and faster.
Cranes play a key role in various industries. They help in lifting, moving, and placing heavy loads safely. With different types of crane available, each crane serves a special purpose. Whether in construction, shipping, or manufacturing, cranes make work more efficient and safe. If you are looking for cranes for construction, choose the right type based on your project’s needs.
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