Truck Cranes

The truck cranes are very efficient lifting machines that can be used for a variety of applications. These machines are actually trucks with crane part attached on them. There are many different truck crane models on the market with similar configuration and specifications. Like any other heavy-duty construction machine, safe operation is very important. That's why the crane operators need to complete a special training program in order to obtain a certificate and license for operating truck cranes.

Most truck cranes are equipped with hydraulic systems for lifting various materials and objects. A hydraulic pump creates enough pressure and force causing the pistons to move up and down. Most truck cranes use two gear pumps which are consisted of inter meshing gears. When the pressure is increased, the operator pushes the throttle so that the pump can run faster. Generally, the truck cranes are powered by diesel engine with 365 horsepower. This diesel engine is attached on three different two-gear pumps. The first is a main pump, and this pump generates the most pressure from all other pumps because it moves more weight. A pilot pressure counterweight pump keeps the truck crane from tipping over. The outrigger and steering pump keeps the crane stable during the lifting operations.

The truck cranes are consisted of many parts, and every part plays important role for the lifting operations. The main parts of any truck crane are the following ones: boom, jib, hydraulic pump, counterweights, and rotex gear. The boom is a large arm that is responsible for lifting heavy objects and materials. The counterweights are usually placed on the rear end of the crane with a purpose to keep the crane stable and to prevent tipping over. The hydraulic pump as mentioned above is the main hydraulic system that pressurizes the hydraulic oil. The jib is very important part because it allows the boom of the truck cranes to be extended. The boom rotates thanks to the rotex gear.

Every part and function of the truck cranes is controlled by the operators. They operate the crane from inside the cabin. The cabin of the truck cranes is ergonomically designed for increased operator comfort. Generally, the operator of the truck crane uses two joysticks. One joystick is responsible for the left-to-right movements, and the other one is responsible for the forward and backward movements. The pedals in the cabin enable the boom of the crane to be either extended or retracted. Before any lifting operation, the operator enters data into a computer about the materials that are going to be lifted. This data includes important information such as: weight, size and height of the objects. When the object is lifted off course, the computer will warn and notify the operator by a series of flashing lights. These and many other features make the truck cranes to be popular and widely used all over Australia.