What is a Crawler Crane?

A crawler crane is a type of mobile crane mounted on an undercarriage fitted with a set of tracks (crawlers). These tracks provide excellent stability and mobility on soft or uneven ground, allowing the crane to lift very heavy loads and move short distances around a job site while under load (though capacity is often reduced). They are frequently used in large-scale construction, infrastructure projects, and heavy industry across New Zealand.

Key features of a Crawler Crane

• Tracked Undercarriage: Provides a wide, stable base, distributing the load over a large area, enabling high lifting capacities without the need for outriggers in many situations.
• High Lifting Capacity: Crawler cranes are available in a wide range of capacities, from smaller utility models to massive heavy-lift cranes capable of lifting thousands of tonnes.
• Lattice Boom: Typically features a long lattice boom constructed from interconnected steel sections, allowing for significant reach and height. The boom length can often be configured for specific job requirements.
• Mobility on Site: Can travel around the job site, even on unimproved surfaces, albeit slowly. Some models can travel while carrying a load (pick-and-carry).
• Counterweights: Utilises substantial counterweights at the rear of the rotating superstructure to balance the load being lifted.

Crawler Crane Considerations

These are the main factors to consider in relation to Crawler Cranes:

• Lift Requirements: Carefully calculate the maximum load weight, required lifting radius (horizontal distance), and required lifting height.
• Site Conditions: Assess ground bearing capacity to ensure it can support the crane's weight and the load. While good on soft ground, very poor conditions may still require ground preparation (mats).
• Assembly & Disassembly: Larger crawler cranes require significant time, space, and often assist cranes for assembly and disassembly.
• Transportation: Transporting components between sites requires multiple truckloads and careful logistical planning.
• Operating Area: Requires a considerable amount of clear space for operation, including boom swing and counterweight clearance.

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