Parts of a Tower Crane
Several of the most remarkable structures around the globe are made using cranes. The newer cranes are used to be able to reach higher heights. Tower cranes offer the means to lift and transport building parts, supplies and tools all over a construction location. There are several different parts which assemble a tower crane once they are put together. Putting a tower crane together utilizes different pieces of construction machinery.
Base
Normally, the tower crane base is made from a steel unit. The base is connected to a custom-designed concrete pad. This set-up gives the structure stability. Generally, the construction must be engineered and constructed well in order to operate at optimum safety.
Mast
The mast of the tower crane provides height to the equipment. The mast is made of connected steel parts. The amount of parts determines the height of the crane. Typically, a tower crane has a design which allows the mast to grow during construction by adding further sections as the building process goes on. This way the height of the crane can be specified, ensuring it has sufficient height to perform the required work safely and efficiently.
Slewing Unit/Top Climber
Over the mast is the slewing unit. It houses the motor and equipment which allows the crane to rotate. A top climber is the piece of machinery that allows the mast to grow. The top climber sits just beneath the slewing unit. Hydraulic rams inside the top climber allow the slewing unit to be detached from the mast by raising it higher.
Boom
"Boom" is a term that specifically refers to the tower crane's working arm. The boom is made of steel parts connected together, that extend out from the top of the slewing unit, parallel to the ground. There is a trolley attached to the underside that can extend the length of the boom. This particular trolley has the hoisting mechanism.