The Importance of Choosing the Right Crane Type
Selecting suitable equipment supports a well-planned lifting operation and can help reduce operational risk and avoid preventable disruption. Lifting capacity, reach and configuration are key considerations when matching the crane to the load, site conditions and planned operation.
What Influences Crane Type Selection?
Some of the key factors in choosing the right crane type include the following:
- Safety: The crane should be suitable for the load, the site conditions and the nature of the operation to reduce the risk of damage or harm to workers.
- Lifting capacity: Your choice of crane should be able to safely lift the required load without overloading beyond the specified capacity.
- Site constraints: The space available for lifting operations and the accessibility to reach the site, such as roads to an infrastructure site, will affect which crane is most suitable for your lift.
- Regulatory requirements: Crane selection forms part of the planning required under LOLER, with applicable BS 7121 guidance providing recognised recommendations for the safe use of cranes.
- Ground conditions: Ground conditions and crane loads influence crane selection. Underlying ground capacity and temporary works remain subject to the client or Temporary Works Engineer where applicable.
- Project duration: The anticipated programme and number of lifting operations can influence the most suitable crane type and mobilisation strategy.
Different Crane Types
Large (Heavy) Cranes
Large or heavy cranes are designed to meet the demands of major infrastructure, industrial and energy projects, where substantial lifting capacity and reach may be required. They can be configured around heavy loads, lift radii and lifting heights, making them suitable for complex lifting operations involving large or high-value components.
Tower Cranes
Tower cranes are versatile cranes that are commonly used on construction projects where high-rise lifts are required. They can provide useful reach and lifting capability on constrained sites where their configuration and footprint suit the planned operation. Mobile tower cranes combine road-going mobility with a tower-crane-style vertical mast and jib arrangement.
Crawler Cranes
Crawler cranes are mounted on tracks rather than road wheels, distributing loads over a wider contact area and providing beneficial site mobility where ground conditions and access are suitable. Their substantial lifting capacity makes them well suited to major construction, infrastructure and renewable energy projects.
All-Terrain Cranes
All-terrain cranes are wheeled mobile cranes designed for both road travel and suitable off-road site conditions. They combine road-going mobility with strong lifting capability, making them a versatile option for projects that require movement between locations or access across varied site conditions.
City & Small Cranes
Small and city cranes are designed specifically with urban projects in mind, offering lifting solutions in areas where access is limited. Their compact dimensions can make them suitable for restricted-access construction projects, maintenance work and lifting operations where available working space or access routes limit the crane options.
Mobile Cranes
Mobile cranes are mounted on wheeled carriers designed to provide mobility between lifting locations. Depending on the crane type and configuration, mobile cranes can offer relatively rapid mobilisation and setup across a wide range of lifting requirements. Their flexibility makes them suitable for applications ranging from managed Contract Lifts to shorter-duration lifting operations, with different models providing a broad range of lifting capacities.
How to Choose the Right Crane Type
Selecting a suitable crane is an important part of lifting-operation planning. The choice should be informed by the load, lift radius, site conditions, access, hazards and planned method of work. The following factors can inform crane selection as part of a lifting operation planned in accordance with relevant BS 7121 guidance and applicable LOLER requirements:
Load Weight and Capacity
The weight of the load is amongst the first considerations when selecting a crane. Cranes will have a maximum lifting capacity, but this is not a static figure. The actual capacity for your specific lift will depend on boom length, lifting radius and configuration. The selected crane and configuration must provide adequate capacity for the planned load, radius and operating conditions.
Lift Height and Reach
The height and horizontal distance your load needs to be lifted will affect your choice of crane. For example, for projects with large infrastructure or taller buildings, you may require a crane with a longer boom or greater hook height compared to projects with lower lifting requirements.
Ground Conditions
The supporting ground must be capable of accommodating the loads imposed by the crane during the planned operation. Crane type, configuration and support arrangements can influence those loads, while underlying ground capacity and any required temporary works should be confirmed through the client or Temporary Works Engineer arrangements.
Site Access
Site accessibility will influence which crane is suitable for your project. Narrow roads, restricted entrances or off-road access can limit the cranes that can reach and manoeuvre around a site. Urban projects may therefore require more compact equipment where access or working space is constrained.
Site Space
The available space on-site for your lift will influence which crane is the best fit for your project. Crane setup space requirements, including outriggers, should be a consideration when choosing the right crane. Planning should also account for suitable working areas, operating clearances and proximity hazards involving people, structures and other site activities.
Project Duration
The project programme and number or variety of lifts required can influence crane selection and mobilisation arrangements. Short-duration work may suit a mobile crane, while longer programmes or repeated lifting requirements may call for a different crane type or configuration.
Expert Crane Hire Help With Ainscough
If you have an upcoming project that requires a lifting solution, Ainscough can support you. Our experienced lifting specialists support projects across the UK, with technical crane selection and managed lift planning available where these responsibilities form part of the agreed service scope.
Need to discuss a suitable crane or lifting solution for your project? Contact our team directly today. Call us on 0800 272 637 or fill out our contact form to speak to our crane specialists.