Parts of a Tower Crane
Some of the most remarkable structures around the world are made utilizing cranes. The newer cranes are designed to be able to reach higher heights. Tower cranes offer the means to transport and raise building parts, materials and tools around a construction location. There are various components which assemble a tower crane when they are put together. Putting a tower crane together uses various pieces of construction machines.
Base
Typically, the base of a tower crane is made from a steel unit. The base is connected to a concrete pad that is custom-designed. This type of set-up provides the structure with stability. Generally, the construction needs to be well engineered and constructed so as to operate at optimum safety.
Mast
The mast on the tower crane provides the machine with its overall height. The mast is constructed out of individual steel parts which are attached together. The amount of sections determines the crane's height. Typically, a tower crane has a design that enables the mast to grow during construction by adding more sections as the building process continues. This way the crane's height can be specified, ensuring it has adequate height to perform the needed work efficiently and safely.
Slewing Unit/Top Climber
Above the mast is the slewing unit. It houses the motor and machines which enables the crane to rotate. A top climber is the piece of machinery which allows the mast to grow. The top climber sits just underneath the slewing unit. Hydraulic rams inside the top climber enable the slewing unit to be disconnected from the mast by raising it higher.
Boom
"Boom" is a term which particularly refers to the working arm of a tower crane. The boom is made of steel sections connected together, which extend out from the top of the slewing unit, parallel to the ground. There is a trolley attached to the underside which could run the length of the boom. This particular trolley holds the hoisting mechanism.