What is a Slewing Crane?

What is a Slewing Crane?

When it comes to cranes, there is a major distinction between two types of movement: slewing and non-slewing. Let’s explore the key differences and how these nuances impact their performance on various job sites.

1. Overview of Slewing and Non-Slewing Cranes

In the realm of crane movement, a slewing crane sets itself apart by lifting a load, suspending it mid-air, and then rotating it using a boom rotating mechanism. On the flip side, non-slewing cranes lack a rotating base section, influencing their compact design to accommodate this fundamental difference.

Crane operations can seem complex, but simply put, think of slewing cranes as the ones that not only lift heavy things but also have a nifty trick—they can also rotate around.

2. Non-Slewing Mobile Cranes: Streamlined Mobility

The primary characteristic of non-slewing mobile cranes is their absence of rotating joints. This design aligns with their typically mobile profile, featuring a permanent articulation joint that raises and repositions loads only when the mobile truck engages its drive section. While lacking the slewing capability, these mobile lifters boast high maneuverability with a four-wheeled chassis, providing a solid build for lifting and lowering payloads.

3. Slewing Lifters: Dynamic Site Versatility

Incorporating a rotating turntable section, slewing cranes gain z-axis capability and enhanced site versatility. The mobile chassis transports the lifter to its destination, where it can anchor in place with outriggers while the arcing boom maneuvers efficiently over the construction area. This dynamic system covers a full 360° circle, allowing access to rear-located loads without the need for awkward truck repositioning.

4. Choosing the Right Crane for the Job

Selecting the appropriate crane depends on the application. Smaller non-slewing cranes find a natural fit on flatbed trucks, traveling highways and dirt tracks with their wheels serving as the boom conveyance mechanism. In contrast, slewing cranes, with their turntables and extending outriggers, offer flexibility and stability in diverse operational scenarios.

5. Conclusion: Adaptability and Strength

While slewing cranes showcase adaptability with their wide-reaching circular bases, non-slewing counterparts hold their own with powerful unidirectional aptitude. Both crane types are indispensable, each tailored for slightly different applications. Slewing cranes excel in dynamic environments, while non-slewing cranes prove their mettle with mechanical strength and maneuverability, particularly in the hands of a skilled operator.

In summary, understanding the distinctions between slewing and non-slewing mobile cranes allows for informed decisions, ensuring the right crane is chosen for the right job.

Some slewing in action!

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