Truck Mounted Crane
A truck-mounted crane (also known as a loader crane or boom truck) mounts a hydraulic lifting apparatus directly onto a commercial truck chassis. This equipment offers the unique advantage of combining heavy material lifting capabilities with over-the-road mobility, making it essential across construction, mining, agriculture, and transport logistics.
Overview
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- Versatility: These machines excel in both loading/unloading cargo and precise placement of materials (like steel beams or pre-fabricated components) on tight job sites.
- Capacities: Available in varying sizes, from lightweight 500 kg electric or mechanical jib cranes for vans and LDVs, up to massive 300-ton capacity telescopic booms for heavy civil infrastructure.
- Key Components: Features a rotating base, hydraulic outriggers for stability, a mast, and an articulated (knuckle boom) or straight (stiff) telescopic arm.
Attachments & Operation
Because of their built-in hydraulic systems, these cranes can do far more than basic lifting. Operators can swap out standard hooks for:
- Augers for earth drilling
- Hydraulic grabs or timber grapples
- Crane forks for palletized goods
- Remote controls for precision in-cab or line-of-sight operation
Note: Operating a truck-mounted crane is a specialized skill. In regions like South Africa, operators must complete a formal, accredited 5-day novice or refresher Safety Shop Training Course to ensure workplace safety and load-chart compliance.
