Budget management is an important consideration in any construction project. The purchase of heavy equipment, such as cranes, can drive up costs, and the return on investment can take a long time. On the other hand, renting can be cost-effective, especially for short-term construction projects.
A lot goes into finding the right crane for the job. Here are a few tips to help you make an informed decision.
1. Load
Before renting a crane, consider the type of load you will be lifting. At a construction site, the different types of loads may include machinery, bulk materials, concrete items, and people among others.
Look for a crane with the accessories you need to lift your loads safely and efficiently. Some cranes come with compartments for carrying tools while others come with accessories such as elevators that are suitable for lifting personnel.
Additionally, consider the approximate weight of the loads you will be lifting to ensure that you rent the right size crane. Avoid exceeding the weight capacity of the crane as this can result in fatal injuries to workers.
2. Lift Technique
Different loads need different lifting techniques to ensure safety and efficiency at the construction site. The method of lifting personnel might not be suitable for lifting construction equipment.
Each type of crane is best suited for a certain lifting method. Examples of common load lifting methods included chocker lifting, basket hitching, and vertical hitching. Each lifting or rigging method has its own advantages and limitations.
When selecting a rental crane, consider the type of load, the weight of the load, and the most suitable technique for lifting. The wrong lifting technique can increase the risk of accidents at the work site.
Your crane rentals provider can recommend the safest and most efficient lifting method for your particular type of load.
3. Site Conditions
After understanding the load requirements, assess the conditions of your site to determine the appropriate type and crane size for your project. First, consider how high you will need to lift the load. This will determine the type of boom you will need and the way the boom extension will be set up.
At greater heights, the boom's extension is particularly prone to potentially dangerous tilts by the wind. This can affect the type of load and load weight you can safely lift.
Bearing in mind the height and wind conditions, select a crane with the capacity to lift as far up into the air as your project requires.
Second, consider the stability of the ground at the location of your construction site. Cranes assert a powerful downward pressure when lifting loads and this can destabilize the ground underneath.
Some cranes are better suited for concrete surfaces. Others are safe to operate on dirt surfaces while other types are designed for uneven terrain.
4. Safety
Identify potential obstacles that could make operating the crane difficult or increase hazards at the work site. Look out for features such as power lines, buildings, underground utilities, or trees that could prevent the proper operation of certain types of cranes.
Your crane rentals provider can assess the site and help you select the right size crane that can safely fit at the job site and lift your loads.
Renting a crane can help you save costs. To realize the benefits of renting equipment, be sure to work with a reputable crane rental provider that can help you select the appropriate equipment for your needs.
If you are looking for affordable and reliable mobile crane rental services, get in touch with
3-B Welding, LLC. We will help you choose the right crane rental and offer a free estimate.