How Many Types of Cranes Are on a Construction Site?

Cranes are an essential part of any construction project, and different types serve different purposes. Whether lifting heavy steel beams or maneuvering materials around a skyscraper, cranes provide the flexibility needed on job sites. In this article, we'll explore the various types of cranes commonly found on construction sites, their specific uses, and how their sizes differ depending on the task at hand.

Construction sites typically have several types of cranes, including tower cranes¹, mobile cranes², and crawler cranes³, each suited to specific tasks.

Cranes come in many shapes and sizes, each serving a unique role. From mobile cranes on roads to tower cranes towering above buildings, each has its purpose. Let’s dive into the different types of cranes used on construction sites, their uses, and what size each one typically is.

What Type of Crane Is Normally Trucked to the Site?

When it comes to transporting cranes, the most common type of crane trucked to the construction site is the mobile crane. But why is this the preferred choice for construction logistics?

Mobile cranes are typically trucked to construction sites because of their portability and ability to be quickly set up and operational.

Mobile cranes, also known as truck-mounted cranes, are often the first choice for construction projects requiring cranes to be moved across different locations or across long distances. These cranes have the advantage of being able to travel on public roads and are ready to work once they arrive at the site. Because they are mounted on a truck, they offer both mobility and flexibility in smaller to medium-sized construction projects. Additionally, mobile cranes can reach impressive lifting capacities and offer a variety of boom configurations.

Advantages of Trucked Cranes:

What Is the Most Commonly Used Crane?

Among the various types of cranes used in construction, one stands out as the most commonly used: the tower crane. But what makes this crane so popular?

Tower cranes are the most commonly used cranes on large construction sites, particularly in the construction of high-rise buildings.

Tower cranes are widely recognized as the go-to option for large-scale construction projects, especially in urban environments where high-rise buildings are being constructed. Their ability to lift heavy loads to great heights makes them ideal for skyscrapers, bridges, and other large structures. Tower cranes are fixed to the ground and are often assembled on-site, and their long-reaching arms provide extensive coverage. As construction progresses, they are typically climbed (extended) to adjust their height according to the needs of the project.

Why Tower Cranes Are Common:

Where Are the Most Construction Cranes?

Ever wondered where the most construction cranes are located? The answer might surprise you! Major urban centers and construction hubs are home to the majority of cranes worldwide.

Major cities, particularly those undergoing rapid urban development, tend to have the highest number of construction cranes.

Cities that are undergoing rapid development or large-scale urban projects are the areas where you’ll find the most cranes. For example, cities like Dubai⁴, New York, London, and Hong Kong are home to countless cranes that are used to build everything from residential towers to commercial skyscrapers. As cities expand, cranes become essential to meet the demands of construction, particularly in areas where land is scarce and taller buildings are required.

Cities with the Most Cranes:

What Are Cranes Used for in Construction?

Cranes are versatile machines, each with specific functions on construction sites. But what exactly are they used for?

Cranes are used in construction for lifting heavy loads, hoisting materials, and moving large equipment around the job site.

Cranes are primarily used for lifting and moving heavy materials and equipment. This includes steel beams, concrete panels, machinery, and even large construction tools. The main purpose is to reduce the labor required to move large items safely and efficiently. Depending on the crane type, it may also be used for smaller tasks like hoisting light materials, assembling large components, or even lifting workers in some cases (e.g., tower cranes with man baskets). Additionally, cranes are used in demolition, offshore drilling, and more.

Crane Uses in Construction:

What Are the Sizes of Common Cranes?

Cranes come in various sizes, depending on the project needs. But how do crane sizes differ, and what size is considered “common”?

Crane sizes vary widely, from smaller mobile cranes to massive tower cranes designed for skyscraper construction.

The size of a crane depends on the task it is designed to perform. For example, small mobile cranes may have lifting capacities of 10-30 tons, while larger cranes, like crawler cranes, can lift hundreds of tons. Tower cranes, on the other hand, are typically sized to handle materials for high-rise buildings and can lift anywhere from 10 tons to over 50 tons. The reach and lifting capacity of cranes also vary depending on the boom length, counterweights, and lifting height required for a specific job.

Common Crane Sizes:

Conclusion

The types of cranes used on a construction site vary greatly depending on the job requirements. From mobile cranes trucked to the site for smaller tasks to towering cranes designed for massive lifts at great heights, each type plays a critical role. Understanding the purpose, capabilities, and sizes of these cranes helps ensure the right equipment is chosen for the right job, making construction projects safer and more efficient.