Have you all heard of truck-mounted cranes? The full name of truck-mounted cranes is “truck-mounted crane transporter.” These remarkable pieces of machinery play a crucial role in various industries, from construction to logistics. The cranes of truck-mounted cranes come in a diverse array of varieties, and the lengths of their booms also span a wide range. Many truck-mounted cranes are equipped with hydraulic outriggers, which serve a vital supporting function and are instrumental in distributing the weight of the entire crane. Without these hydraulic outriggers, when the crane attempts to lift relatively heavy objects, it can lead to serious consequences such as tire blowouts of the vehicle and, in some cases, even damage to the road surface. So, just how much do you know about hydraulic outriggers? What forms do they come in?
The hydraulic outriggers of truck-mounted cranes are generally divided into five distinct types:
Frog-leg outriggers: These outriggers are aptly named because the shape of their outriggers bears a resemblance to the legs of a frog. The movable outriggers are hinged on the fixed outriggers, and their deployment actions are accomplished through hydraulic cylinders. One of the characteristics of frog-leg outriggers is their relatively simple structure and lighter weight compared to some other types. However, a drawback is that the span of the outriggers is not extensive. Due to this limitation, this kind of outrigger is only suitable for cranes of small tonnage.
For example, imagine a small-scale construction site where space is limited and the lifting requirements are not overly demanding. In such a scenario, a truck-mounted crane with frog-leg outriggers could be a practical choice. The lighter weight and simpler design make it easier to maneuver in tight spaces, and the smaller tonnage capacity is sufficient for handling lighter loads.
Despite their limitations, frog-leg outriggers still offer several advantages. Their simplicity means that they are less prone to mechanical failures and are easier to maintain. Additionally, their smaller size can be beneficial when working in areas with restricted access.
H-shaped outriggers: These outriggers are characterized by having two hydraulic cylinders. After the movable outriggers are extended, they support the ground vertically during operation, and their shape resembles the letter “H,” hence the name. One of the key features of H-shaped outriggers is their relatively large span. This gives them good adaptability to different site conditions. Currently, they have been widely adopted in various applications.
For instance, on a medium-sized construction site where the crane needs to handle a variety of loads and work on uneven terrain, H-shaped outriggers can provide stable support. The larger span allows for a wider distribution of weight, reducing the risk of tipping and ensuring the safety of the operation. The two hydraulic cylinders provide added strength and stability, enabling the crane to handle heavier loads with confidence.
The versatility of H-shaped outriggers makes them a popular choice for many truck-mounted cranes. They can be adjusted to different heights and angles to adapt to various working conditions, making them suitable for a wide range of lifting tasks.
X-shaped outriggers: When in operation, these outriggers form an “X” shape, with a relatively small ground clearance. During the process of the outriggers supporting the ground, horizontal displacement occurs. When it is a small amplitude, the moving space of heavy objects is larger than that of H-shaped outriggers. Because of this characteristic, X-shaped outriggers are often used in combination with H-shaped outriggers to form a front H and rear X configuration.
For example, in some complex lifting operations where the space is limited and the movement of the load needs to be carefully controlled, the combination of H-shaped and X-shaped outriggers can offer a more flexible and stable solution. The H-shaped outriggers at the front provide stability and support for the initial lifting phase, while the X-shaped outriggers at the rear allow for greater maneuverability and a larger working space for the load.
The X-shaped outriggers add an extra dimension of functionality to truck-mounted cranes. Their unique design allows for a more efficient use of space and can be particularly useful in situations where precision and control are essential.
Radial outriggers: These outriggers take the turntable as the center of rotation and extend outward from the basin-shaped frame of the vehicle frame in a radial manner to form four outriggers. One of the notable characteristics of radial outriggers is their excellent stability. During lifting operations, all loads act directly on the outriggers without passing through the vehicle frame. This design feature not only reduces the weight of the vehicle frame but also lowers the center of gravity of the whole machine, thereby protecting the chassis from damage. Due to these advantages, radial outriggers are mainly used on some extremely large cranes.
For instance, in large-scale construction projects or industrial applications where massive loads need to be lifted and moved with precision and safety, radial outriggers are essential. The ability to distribute the load directly onto the outriggers ensures that the crane can handle extremely heavy weights without putting excessive stress on the vehicle frame. The radial design allows for a wide range of movement and flexibility, enabling the crane to reach different areas and positions.
The complexity and sophistication of radial outriggers make them a specialized solution for heavy-duty lifting tasks. They require advanced engineering and manufacturing processes to ensure their reliability and performance.
Swinging outrigger: During lifting operations, this type of outrigger can swing to a position perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle frame under the action of the hydraulic cylinder. In the non-working state, it can be fixed parallel to both sides of the vehicle frame. One of the characteristics of swinging outriggers is their relatively light weight. However, due to the limitation of space size, the outrigger cannot be too long, so the lateral support distance is relatively small.
For example, in applications where space is at a premium and the crane needs to be able to move quickly between different locations, a swinging outrigger can be a useful option. The ability to fold up and store parallel to the vehicle frame when not in use makes it convenient for transportation and storage. Despite the limited lateral support distance, swinging outriggers can still provide adequate stability for certain lifting tasks.
These are the several structural forms of hydraulic outriggers. Their advantages and functions are now more clearly understood. So, friends who are considering purchasing truck-mounted cranes can make an informed decision by choosing suitable hydraulic outriggers based on their specific needs and applications. Whether it’s a small job site that requires a lightweight and maneuverable crane with frog-leg outriggers or a large-scale construction project that demands the stability and strength of radial outriggers, understanding the different types of hydraulic outriggers can help ensure the success of your lifting operations.
