[BLOG]Crawler vs Rough Terrain Crane: Which One to Choose?

When it comes to hiring a crane for your next project, you need to know you are using the best equipment for

the job.

Both crawler cranes and mobile cranes are a popular machine that have significant advantages and disadvantages that make them better suited for certain applications. With a broad range available, it is important to know the differences between the two. Allow us to share the factors you need to look out for in order to discover which machine is best for you:   

Crawler Cranes- Features, Usages and Environmental factors:

Mounted on an undercarriage, this crane has been designed on a set of tracks, known as crawlers. With excellent grip, work of any kind of slippery, rocky, or otherwise unstable ground can easily be accomplished, thanks to the added benefits of the tracks.

The design of the crane has been balanced and distributed efficiently to effortlessly lift and transport materials depending on the machine and weight. This powerhouse of a machine can provide great assistance for heavy loads and reliability, as it can work efficiently without the need of stability from outriggers. Crawler cranes often tend to have a massive working load ability, with a standard cab that can rotate at a full 360 degrees.

Crawler cranes are used for a variety of applications, specifically sites that require lifting of huge loads for extended heights and lengths. Designed to assist rough environments, these cranes are perfect for transporting building materials, demolition, removal of debris, foundation work and light lifting in the mining industry.

Mobile Crane– Features, Usages and Environmental factors:

Mounted on large rubber tires, the mobile crane is great for manoeuvring over uneven and rough environments. The 4-wheel steering and drive is easily able to access areas that other cranes might not been able to.

With a larger centre of gravity, these machines can independently level themselves on even or sloped grounds, thanks to the H-patterned outriggers and body.

Mobile cranes are Ideal for off-road hoisting operations, such as mining, construction, and heavy lifting applications.

The Differences- Positives and Negatives:

Both crawler and mobile cranes are uniquely designed to navigate areas such as, uneven, and rough environments. With similar builds and

fundamental parts, these cranes can be considered similar to one another, with the main different of transportation styles and applications.

Unlike the crawler crane, the mobile crane has been designed with wheels instead of tracks. These oversize wheels can be considered more controlled and quicker for worksites, being able to easily navigate tight corners and move powerfully over rocky environments.

Although, the crawler cranes are slower, they provide more stability onsite, with the ability to carry more weight safely. This weight capacity combined with their ability to conquer most types of terrain makes these cranes ideal for any large terrain requirements, with no outriggers needed.

If you were looking for a machine for rough environments and powerful lifting capabilities, crawler cranes are normally the more straight-forward choice as rough terrain cranes need to be stabilised with outriggers.

Mobile cranes are the preferable choice when it comes to confined rough environments. With the right adjustable outriggers, these machines can accomplish almost anything. Although, caution is always needed when operating, as these machines should not be used on very soft or unstable surfaces, as you run the risk of the equipment toppling over.

For more information or to speak to one of our friendly team about your requirements, call us on 1800 440 550