Some Professional Knowledge of Straight Arm Truck-Mounted Cranes

Truck-mounted cranes are categorized into straight arm and folding arm types. Both these types of cranes have their distinct advantages. Today, let’s delve into some professional insights regarding straight arm cranes.

There are two options for the oil pumps employed in straight arm cranes: single-pump and double-pump. The single-pump boasts a straightforward structure, featuring only one pump body and is predominantly utilized on cranes with smaller tonnage, specifically those under 8 tons. It can achieve superior application outcomes when paired with a high-quality truck-mounted crane chassis. For instance, the truck-mounted crane chassis of Hubei Dayun presents a commendable choice. The double-pump, constituted by two pump bodies installed together, is equivalent to two single-pumps. Consequently, the double-pump offers a larger oil supply, superior stability, an extended working duration, and the crane operates at a faster pace. It is not applicable to cranes with a tonnage of under 8 tons.

Hydraulic circuits. Different truck-mounted crane models exhibit diverse circuit designs. Some small-tonnage cranes might feature a single-circuit configuration. This system encompasses only one hydraulic circuit. Such a type of crane can typically execute only one action at a given time. Although theoretically, multiple mechanisms can be linked through precise manipulation of the throttle, it is inevitable to encounter energy loss, increased heat generation, and reduced efficiency. Coupled with the fact that the aforementioned small-tonnage cranes all employ single-pumps with a relatively small flow rate, the movements will be notably slow. Double-circuit and multi-circuit designs can significantly enhance working efficiency, but the price of the crane will correspondingly be relatively higher.

The boom extension method of the straight arm crane. As the largest assembly on the straight arm crane, when the boom undertakes the telescopic movement, there are typically two approaches. One is analogous to a truck crane. There is a large cylinder within the boom, and the remainder is driven by steel wire ropes. All boom sections extend and retract simultaneously. The other variant incorporates two thin cylinders within the boom. Firstly, the second boom is extended, that is, the thickest section. Once it is fully extended, the other boom sections are extended concurrently. The former boasts a robust telescopic force with load, while the telescopic speed of the second boom is relatively sluggish. However, when utilized within a close range, it provides a greater sense of psychological reassurance. And in practical applications, the former has never witnessed a boom breakage incident. Regarding boom telescoping, to prolong its service life, it is not advisable to employ the boom with load telescoping. Hence, in actual operations, such practices should be avoided as much as feasible.

The cross-section of the boom. In recent years, the demands for lightweight vehicles have progressively escalated. Consequently, lighter and higher-strength hexagonal, octagonal, and other unconventional shapes of booms have begun to emerge.

The styles and types of outriggers. The outriggers of the crane are primarily upright. This type of outrigger possesses a simplistic structure and can fulfill the usage requirements. The majority of truck-mounted cranes in the current market adopt this style of outrigger. Another type is the reversible outrigger, which is suitable for chassis with relatively confined space on both sides, such as tractor truck-mounted cranes. There are two varieties of rear outriggers: fixed type and movable type. The fixed type is predominantly utilized on small-tonnage chassis, while the movable type is mostly employed on larger-tonnage chassis.

The material used for the boom is another critical factor. High-strength alloys and advanced composites are increasingly being utilized to enhance the strength-to-weight ratio of the boom, allowing for greater lifting capacity without excessive weight.

The control systems of straight arm cranes have also evolved significantly. Modern cranes often feature advanced joystick or touchscreen controls that provide precise and intuitive operation. Some systems even incorporate intelligent features such as load sensing and automatic boom stabilization to enhance safety and efficiency.

When it comes to maintenance, regular inspections of the boom’s welds, hydraulic hoses, and cylinder seals are essential to prevent leaks and ensure the crane’s reliability. Lubrication of moving parts and checking for wear and tear are also crucial maintenance tasks.

The choice of crane brand and manufacturer can have a significant impact on performance and after-sales support. Established brands with a proven track record of quality and service are often preferred, but it’s also worth considering emerging manufacturers that offer innovative features and competitive pricing.

The application environment and specific lifting requirements should also guide the selection of a straight arm truck-mounted crane. For example, if the crane is going to be used in confined spaces or for specialized tasks like lifting fragile or valuable items, additional features such as precise positioning controls and boom extensions with enhanced flexibility might be necessary.

In terms of safety, proper training for operators is paramount. They need to understand not only how to operate the crane but also how to assess the stability of the working environment, calculate load capacities, and respond to potential emergencies.

Finally, as technology continues to advance, straight arm truck-mounted cranes are likely to become even more sophisticated, efficient, and safe. Keeping up with the latest developments and industry standards is essential for both manufacturers and users to make the most of these powerful lifting machines.

In conclusion, understanding the various aspects of straight arm truck-mounted cranes, from their technical components and operational features to maintenance and safety considerations, is crucial for making informed decisions and ensuring their successful and reliable use in a wide range of applications.