Mobile cranes are not only recommended, but required, for certain labour-intensive industries that operate on massive scales. Despite the common misconception that mobile cranes are not as robust, they can still lift up to 500 tons and are far more efficient and adaptable than tower cranes. Additionally, there is still a demand for mobile cranes in smaller residential and commercial construction projects. Being versatile, robust, and compact goes a long way on a site, so here are 5 industries that use mobile cranes – the overlooked companion of the tower crane – and why this may yield a better result for their projects.
Residential Construction
The use of mobile cranes in residential construction is more prevalent than in any other industry for a number of reasons. Mobile cranes are able to lift heavy materials like concrete blocks and steel beams to higher levels, as in the case of taller and larger residential structures, making them especially relevant in Sydney’s booming property development market. The development of residential sites, especially in highly urbanised areas, requires the effective use of limited space. Mobile cranes can be quickly set up and dismantled and are easier to navigate around tight job sites. Additionally, as residential construction costs generally adhere to a lower budget than commercial or industrial projects, the cost savings of hiring a portable crane are especially pertinent. Mobile cranes require less manual labour and insurance, as well as minimising the risk of accidents and injuries for better human resource efficiency.
Mining
You may associate crane work in the mining industry with the operation of massive, heavy tower cranes. However, there are a multitude of reasons why mobile cranes can be just as, if not more effective. The mining industry requires the use of heavy and expensive equipment, like draglines, haul trucks, and excavators. These can be moved and positioned across the site with mobile cranes to service the mine wherever needed. Mining is also incredibly versatile and comes with great variation in environment and depth. Underground, surface, and open-pit mining operations are all conducted across Australia. This flexibility and variance require an equally adaptable crane that can operate and move across different terrains, such as one of the all-terrain cranes offered at St George Cranes. The remoteness of these sites also contributes to the unique terrain that must be weathered in many mining operations. Traditional cranes simply cannot be transported to these remote locations and cannot be assembled and disassembled as such. Mobile cranes are generally more suited for the environment and needs of mining sites.
Oil and Gas Industry
The oil and gas industry operates in remote locations to extract natural products from the earth. This is specifically relevant in Australia, as our biggest crude oil exploits take place in isolated parts of Western Australia across the Carnarvon and Perth basins. Offshore rig extraction also comprises a large part of the oil and gas sector. Therefore, for already explicit reasons, mobile cranes are more effective in being transported to these remote locations. Safety is a large concern in natural commodity industries, and mobile cranes are equipped with safety features like load monitoring systems and anti-tip technology, which can be a safer option for lifting heavy loads in oil and gas operations.
Events Industry
The events industry is not generally associated with the use of heavy construction machinery, but it’s an unsurprising truth when you consider the stages, sound systems, and light structures that must be assembled and dismantled. Event sites can have limited access, like narrow streets or pedestrian-only areas. Mobile cranes can be efficiently transported to these locations and used to set up materials in tight spaces. Some event sites may even have height restrictions, which makes it difficult to use tower cranes. Mobile cranes with adjustable height can be used to position structures and equipment within the height restrictions.
Shipping Industry
It’s clear that cranes are necessary when loading and unloading cargo in ports, harbours, and container terminals. Mobile cranes are preferred in this industry for a few reasons. They require less infrastructure like foundations or rails, and can be used in multiple locations, which erases the need for multiple cranes. The shipping industry is particularly sensitive to concerns about sustainability and reducing carbon footprint considering that 90% of the world’s cargo is transported by sea. Maritime freight has a large environmental impact in terms of oil, pollution, and sound, so reducing emissions in any other related area is extremely desirable. Mobile cranes produce fewer emissions and require less fuel than traditional cranes.
In conclusion, mobile cranes are an essential tool in various industries, including residential construction, mining, oil and gas, events, and the shipping industry. Mobile cranes offer several advantages over traditional cranes, including versatility, flexibility, reduced space requirements, cost savings, and environmental benefits. With their safety features and advanced technology, mobile cranes offer a safer and more efficient way to lift heavy loads and handle cargo, leading to increased productivity and reduced downtime. As technology continues to evolve, mobile cranes are expected to become even more advanced and play an increasingly important role in various industries. Contact us to get a mobile crane involved in your next project and experience the difference for yourself.
