CONVENTIONAL AND MIXED HANDLING--WHICH CRANES ARE BEST? THE CASE FOR MOBILE CRANES

The differences between mobile cranes and other types are listed. Two features, viz the undercarriage-3 basic types (the truck chassis, crawler chassis and self-propelled chassis) and the jib (telescope cantilever jib, lattice strut jib and tower jib) are examined for their suitability for port work. The author considers design stress/stability calculations and comments on construction, manufacture and safety devices. Under the heading "Performance and Utilisation", notes on power supply, transmission and versatility are also given. Factors relating to delivery and installation are also explained. The case of maintenance of this type of crane is emphasised and a section on economics lists a number of advantages to be considered when estimating the viability of a mobile crane. The paper ends with references from satisfied users of mobile cranes.