In the crane business, the all-terrain crane is a luxury kind of a mobile hydraulic crane. The reputation of this particular crane is similar to driving a Hummer or a Range Rover on pavement. All-terrain cranes are considered to be a hybrid between a rough terrain crane and mobile truck crane. Another remarkable quality of this specific machine is its multi-functional ability to be able to traverse through all kinds of off-road terrain. Amongst the main selling characteristics of this specific crane is that it travels equally well at high speeds down highways.
The Very First Rough Terrain Crane
The very first rough terrain crane was put on the market by Grove during the year 1959. The crane was intended for use and designed to deal with various tasks on construction sites. The industrial strength of the crane's tires is capable of handling all types of difficult terrain and could transport small loads in carry mode. During the 1970s, Grove introduced the 4 axle Super-RT 1650 model. This model has a 270 foot or 82.8 meter height under hook in production, in addition to a 135 ton lifting capacity. At the end of the day, the rough terrain crane will become the most remarkable equipment of the company over the years.
The Crane's Drawbacks
The rough terrain crane is not without its drawbacks since it is not able to be driven on public roads with any other traffic. Japan is the one nation which has made this rule an exception. In addition, another problem occurred when the crane's lowered boom tended to block the right and left views of the driver, depending on how the cap was placed. These problems with the crane's design ended up being hazardous and severe and result in many RT crane accidents, particularly when turning. As a result, flatbeds, low-loaders, lowboys were used as the primary means of transporting rough terrain cranes.