Are you familiar with the truck-mounted crane? Its full name is the truck-mounted crane transporter. It is a novel type of special vehicle that has gained significant popularity in recent years. Its advent has gradually displaced the traditional truck crane. Favored by the market for its flexibility and versatility, it holds immense market potential. Truck-mounted cranes are typically classified into front-mounted and rear-mounted based on the position of the crane, and they can further be categorized into folding boom type and straight boom type depending on the form of the crane. So, what exactly are the pros and cons of the front-mounted and rear-mounted cranes of the truck-mounted crane?
Let’s commence with the front-mounted crane, which is a more prevalently utilized form of crane in the present times. Its crane is installed on the girder situated between the vehicle cab and the cargo box. This configuration offers several advantages:
The axle load distribution is relatively uniform, which bestows excellent operational stability and ride comfort. Such even distribution of load is highly beneficial as it contributes to extending the service life of the tires of the truck-mounted crane. A balanced axle load ensures that the tires experience consistent stress, reducing the likelihood of premature wear and tear.
Let’s delve deeper into this aspect. When a vehicle undergoes various maneuvers such as cornering, braking, or traversing uneven terrain, a uniform axle load helps maintain stability and control. This not only enhances safety but also reduces the shock and stress on the tires, prolonging their lifespan and reducing the frequency of replacements.
When the vehicle initiates, accelerates, or ascends on the road, the load on the driving wheels escalates, and its traction significantly surpasses that of the rear-mounted type. This enhanced traction is a crucial factor, especially in challenging road conditions or when dealing with heavy loads. It enables the vehicle to overcome obstacles and gradients more effectively, ensuring smooth and efficient operation.
The improved traction of the front-mounted crane is a direct result of the weight distribution and the position of the crane. When the force is applied to the driving wheels during acceleration or climbing, the front-mounted design provides better grip and power transfer, minimizing wheel spin and maximizing forward momentum.
The assemblies such as its engine, clutch, transmission, and hydraulic operating device are in close proximity to the cab, facilitating the simplification of the control mechanism layout. The steering mechanism features a straightforward structure, making maintenance highly convenient. This proximity not only reduces the complexity of the control linkages but also enables easier access for servicing and repairs.
However, the front-mounted crane is not without its drawbacks:
Due to the incorporation of the transmission shaft device, not only does the vehicle’s weight increase but also the transmission efficiency of the transmission system is compromised, thereby influencing fuel consumption. The additional weight of the transmission shaft adds to the overall mass of the vehicle, requiring more energy to propel and resulting in higher fuel consumption.
The layout of assemblies such as the longitudinal engine, transmission, and transmission shaft encroaches upon the cab space, adversely affecting driving comfort. A cramped cab can lead to discomfort for the driver during long working hours, potentially affecting their concentration and productivity.
Due to the prominent engine hood on the floor, the area utilization rate within the compartment is reduced. This leads to increased noise within the vehicle, poor heat insulation, and vibration isolation, all of which have a negative impact on the riding comfort. The noise, heat, and vibrations can make the driving experience less pleasant and potentially cause fatigue for the driver over extended periods.
Now, let’s consider the rear-mounted crane. The rear-mounted crane is characterized by the installation of the crane at the rear of the vehicle compartment. Such an installation offers three notable advantages:
Since the crane is positioned at the rear of the vehicle, its lifting space is unconstrained, allowing for 360-degree lifting work without impediments. Furthermore, it enables the installation of a large-tonnage truck-mounted crane, thereby increasing the lifting tonnage capacity of the vehicle. This unrestricted lifting space and increased lifting capacity provide greater flexibility and efficiency in various lifting operations.
There exist diverse installation forms of the boom, offering adaptability to different working scenarios and requirements. This flexibility allows for customization based on specific job needs, enhancing the crane’s functionality and usability.
The braking force is distributed rationally, the front suspension structure is straightforward, and the engine is easily accessible for disassembly. On the vehicle floor, there is either no raised passage or only a minor one, allowing for the utilization of a small suspension in the front.
Nonetheless, the rear-mounted type also has its share of disadvantages:
The straight-line driving performance is mediocre, and the vehicle shows higher sensitivity to crosswinds. This can pose challenges when driving on highways or in windy conditions, requiring the driver to exercise extra caution to maintain control and stability.
Because the load on its front wheels is relatively small, steering becomes difficult when driving on icy surfaces, and it is prone to oversteering during turns, thereby increasing the complexity of driving. This imbalance in weight distribution can affect the vehicle’s handling and maneuverability, especially in adverse weather or road conditions.
Due to the short pipeline, the design of the exhaust device becomes challenging, and the muffling issue of the engine is difficult to address effectively. Excessive engine noise can not only be discomforting for the driver and occupants but may also pose environmental concerns.
To summarize, whether the crane is front-mounted or rear-mounted, each configuration has its unique set of advantages and disadvantages. When making a choice regarding a truck-mounted crane, it is essential to consider your specific requirements and operational circumstances. Factors such as the nature of the lifting tasks, the working environment, and personal preferences should all play a role in determining the most suitable configuration for your needs.
In conclusion, a comprehensive understanding of the pros and cons of both front-mounted and rear-mounted cranes is crucial for making an informed decision and maximizing the efficiency and effectiveness of the truck-mounted crane in various applications.
