Introduction
Cranes are used in a diverse range of construction projects. To cater to different requirements, environments and challenges, there is a broad spectrum of cranes available to hire. If you are looking for a crane for a specific project, it’s beneficial to understand the differences between different types of cranes and the advantages they offer. In this article, we’ll discuss the key differences between crawler cranes and spider cranes.
What is a crawler crane?
Crawler cranes can be used for a wide range of applications and they offer advantages when working on uneven or soft ground. The main feature of the crawler crane is its tracks. The tracks of the crawler crane, which are used instead of wheels, offer enhanced stability on soft terrain and sites that carry a risk of sinking. The crane sits on an undercarriage, which is fitted with rubber tracks. Some crawler cranes have a telescopic arm, which increases flexibility and adaptability to make the vehicle suitable for different ground types and projects.
What is a spider crane?
Spider cranes are also known as mini cranes. They are so-called because of their resemblance to spiders. These nimble, mobile cranes are a type of crawler crane, which are easy to transport and set up. Like traditional crawler cranes, spider cranes have tracks, which enable them to work safely and efficiently on soft, uneven terrain and access confined, hard-to-reach spaces. Spider cranes are also ideal for low load-bearing floors. Spider cranes are incredibly versatile and they provide effective solutions for construction sites, gardens and factories.
What are the differences between crawler cranes and spider cranes?
If you’re looking for spider crane hire in London, you may be wondering which type of crane is best for your project. Here are some key differences to consider before you decide which crane to choose:
- Size: crawler cranes are larger than spider cranes. Spider cranes are known as mini cranes. They are ideal for accessing confined areas and working in small spaces.
- Setup: spider cranes are much easier to set up than crawler cranes, making them an excellent option for smaller jobs and short-term projects. Crawler cranes are often recommended for long-term jobs.
- Mobility: due to their size, spider cranes are more mobile and easier to transport than crawler cranes.
- Stability: crawler cranes are designed to provide maximum stability on soft ground and terrain that carries a risk of sinking. They are larger and heavier than spider cranes, offering greater stability.
- Lift capacity: spider cranes are small but mighty but they are much less powerful than crawler cranes in terms of their lifting capacity. Crawler cranes can lift up to 3,000 tons.
Conclusion
Crawler cranes and spider cranes are track vehicles, which are capable of operating on difficult terrain to provide solutions for several applications. Crawler cranes are larger than spider cranes, which are also known as mini cranes. They are more robust and bulky, which makes them more difficult to transport and set up than spider cranes, but they offer enhanced stability and they can lift a lot more weight.
If you’re interested in spider crane hire in London, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
