Tower cranes are the colossal giants of the construction industry, looming high above bustling cityscapes and worksites.
But have you ever wondered how do tower cranes raise themselves skyward, seemingly defying gravity with each additional floor?
In this blog, we’ll delve into the intricate mechanics behind the awe-inspiring process of how tower cranes raise themselves.
The backbone of skyline construction: Tower Cranes
Before we unravel the mystery of their self-elevation, let’s take a moment to appreciate the crucial role tower cranes play in modern construction.
With construction remaining resilient in major UK cities, you don’t have to travel far to see these towering structures which serve as indispensable tools for lifting heavy materials, such as steel, concrete, and prefabricated building components, to dizzying heights.
Whether it’s erecting skyscrapers, bridges, or residential complexes, tower cranes are the backbone of skyline construction.
Anatomy of a Tower Crane
To understand how tower cranes elevate themselves, we must first familiarise ourselves with their basic anatomy.
At the core of every tower crane is a sturdy mast, typically constructed from steel sections bolted together to form a vertical lattice structure.
Mounted atop this mast is the slewing unit, which houses the machinery responsible for rotation and lifting operations.
Jutting out from the slewing unit is the horizontal jib, equipped with a trolley system for horizontal movement and a hoist mechanism for vertical lifting.
How do Tower Cranes raise themselves: the telescopic process
Now, let’s unravel the enigma of how tower cranes raise themselves.
Unlike traditional cranes that rely on mobile bases or fixed support structures, tower cranes utilise a distinctive method known as the telescopic climbing process.
This ingenious technique allows tower cranes to gradually extend their height as construction progresses upward.
The process begins with the installation of the initial mast sections at the construction site.
Once securely anchored to the foundation, the crane’s lifting mechanism hoists additional mast sections into position.
These sections are then bolted or pinned atop the existing mast, extending its height. This iterative process continues, with each new section serving as a platform for the installation of the next, until the desired height is reached.
Counterweights and stability
As tower cranes ascend to greater heights, maintaining stability becomes paramount. To counteract the forces exerted by the crane’s extended mast and jib, counterweights are strategically positioned within the slewing unit or on the rear of the crane’s mast.
These counterweights serve to balance the crane’s centre of gravity, preventing toppling or tipping during lifting operations.
Safety measures and expert oversight
It’s essential to note that the process of raising tower cranes is meticulously planned and executed with the utmost emphasis on safety.
Qualified professionals, including engineers and crane operators, oversee every stage of the climbing process, ensuring adherence to industry standards and regulations.
Comprehensive risk assessments are conducted to identify and mitigate potential hazards, safeguarding both personnel and property.
The role of rental Tower Cranes
In many construction projects, tower cranes are procured through rental services, offering flexibility and cost-effectiveness to contractors.
Rental tower cranes provide construction companies with access to state-of-the-art equipment without the burden of long-term ownership costs.
With 30 years in the industry, Fortis are one of the leading industrial lifting services and crane hire companies in the UK. Get in touch with us today and find out how we can provide you with a rental tower crane to fulfil your construction needs.
Tower Cranes: engineering marvels in the sky
Understanding the marvel of construction that tower cranes represent shows the ingenuity behind the question: how do tower cranes raise themselves?
Through the telescopic climbing method, these towering behemoths ascend to new heights, facilitating the construction of iconic structures that shape our urban landscapes.
As construction continues to rise, rental tower cranes offer a flexible solution, driving progress and innovation in the ever-evolving field of construction. Get in touch with us today to find out how we can help.
