Advantages and Disadvantages of Folding Boom Truck-Mounted Cranes

In recent years, due to multiple factors such as the escalating labor costs in China and the escalating demands for operational efficiency, the truck-mounted crane industry has witnessed rapid growth, with sales escalating year on year. In contrast to truck cranes, truck-mounted cranes offer a shorter investment recovery cycle. Under favorable management circumstances, the cost can be recouped within approximately one year. Even for users facing less favorable business conditions, the cost can typically be recovered in roughly two years. Consequently, the market demand for truck-mounted cranes is on the rise. Truck-mounted cranes can be classified into two types based on the boom structure: folding boom and straight boom. So, what exactly are the pros and cons of folding boom truck-mounted cranes? The editor summarizes them as follows:

The folding boom truck-mounted crane is reminiscent of the joint movements of the human palm and is capable of flawlessly executing a diverse range of motions, thereby offering enhanced flexibility and operational efficiency. Its design enables precise and agile positioning, allowing for seamless handling of various tasks in complex and confined spaces. This flexibility significantly reduces the time and effort required for completing lifting and positioning operations, thereby increasing productivity.

The folding boom truck-mounted crane‘s ability to fold twice makes it highly suitable for workshops, warehouses, and other working environments that are relatively narrow or have limited height. Its compact folded form allows it to maneuver easily within these restricted spaces, enabling lifting operations where traditional cranes might face challenges due to their larger size and limited flexibility.

The folding boom truck-mounted crane shares similarities with a robotic arm and can be equipped with a wide array of “palms” at the end of the boom. These include high-altitude baskets, grabs, fixtures, pallet forks, crushing hammers, augers, and various other types of mechanical attachments. This adaptability enables the crane to handle a multitude of tasks, expanding its functionality and application range beyond basic lifting operations.

Owing to the folding nature of the boom structure of the folding boom truck-mounted crane, it can be neatly folded and stowed. This feature allows the vehicle to reclaim a larger loading space when not in use, thereby maximizing the utilization rate of the cargo box. This is particularly beneficial for optimizing the transport capacity and functionality of the vehicle when not engaged in crane operations.

The telescopic hydraulic cylinder device of the boom of the folding boom truck-mounted crane is positioned externally, facilitating easier access and maintenance when issues arise. This design aspect simplifies the troubleshooting and repair process, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. It also enables quicker detection and resolution of potential problems, ensuring the crane’s reliability and operational readiness.

To alleviate the pressure on the luffing cylinder, a linkage mechanism is frequently employed. The oil pump utilized in the hydraulic system of the straight boom truck-mounted crane is typically a gear pump, while the folding boom truck-mounted crane requires a plunger pump capable of withstanding higher pressures. The higher pressure requirement of the folding boom’s hydraulic system adds to the complexity and cost of the components, as well as increasing the demands on the system’s sealing and durability.

The rotational movement of the folding boom truck-mounted crane is accomplished by the rack on the rotation hydraulic cylinder driving the gear rack at the lower end of the column. The rotation angle is determined by the hydraulic cylinder’s stroke. As a result, the folding boom truck-mounted crane is unable to achieve continuous rotation. Under normal conditions, the maximum rotation angle of the folding boom truck-mounted crane is typically limited to 360 degrees. This restricted rotation range can pose limitations in certain working scenarios where a wider or continuous rotation is desired.

The folding boom truck-mounted crane clearly has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The choice of the boom form for a truck-mounted crane should be based on the specific working environment and requirements. Additionally, the prices of truck-mounted cranes with different boom types can vary significantly. The most crucial factor is to select a configuration that aligns with one’s specific needs and operational circumstances, ensuring optimal performance and cost-effectiveness.

In conclusion, when considering the acquisition of a truck-mounted crane, a comprehensive assessment of the working conditions, task requirements, and budget constraints is essential. By making an informed decision based on these factors, users can select the most suitable boom type and crane model to meet their operational demands and achieve efficient and safe lifting operations.