What is a Crane Boom?
By Ileana Garnand, Digital Editor
Cranes are best known for their long arms, but the familiarity often stops there. This part of the machine is called a crane boom, and it takes on a variety of tasks in construction, manufacturing and transportation projects.
There are multiple types of crane booms with different shapes, sizes and abilities. Load capacity, reach, maneuverability and site conditions all contribute to which booms are best for the job.
What is a Crane Boom?
A crane boom is an arm-like structure often used to lift and move large objects and materials. It bears most of the load weight and its length determines a crane’s maximum reach.
Crane booms can also be equipped with attachments for various purposes, including slings, hooks, buckets, magnets, grapples and wrecking balls.
While a crane boom may look like a simple part of the machine, it requires a high level of precision to operate safely and efficiently. Crane booms are typically attached to the crane cab, where the operator guides the entire machine with buttons, joysticks and computer safety systems.
There are four common types of crane booms: lattice, telescopic, articulating and fixed.
What is a Lattice Crane Boom?
A lattice boom is made with multiple steel bars welded together in a ‘W’ or ‘V’ pattern. The lattice-shaped design increases the boom’s strength and minimizes its weight, making it ideal for large construction projects with heavy materials.
Lattice booms remain at a fixed length, but can swivel, tilt and move side to side. They typically range from 50 to 300 feet long.
What is a Telescopic Crane Boom?
A telescopic boom is made up of multiple pole-like sections that can extend or retract to change the crane’s length. It can maneuver in tight spaces with precision because of its compact size.
This boom is commonly used for projects where a crane's mobility is essential. It is faster to set up than lattice booms but not suitable for heavier loads.
What is an Articulating Crane Boom?
An articulating boom is made up of a series of connected segments that can move independently from one another. This design has increased movement flexibility and is better for tight spaces that other boom types cannot reach.
The hinged sections of articulating booms allow them to bend, flex and reach over obstacles. They are commonly used for construction, maintenance and shipping jobs.
What is a Fixed Crane Boom?
A fixed boom stays the same length and has no folding or articulated sections. It is simple and durable, offering stability and strength for lifting heavy loads in straight lines.
This design can typically handle large loads and reach great heights, so it is suitable for construction, heavy industry and infrastructure projects.
What is the Difference Between Cranes and Boom Trucks?
Cranes and boom trucks have similar features and uses, so they are often confused with one another. Both lift heavy materials and have booms, but they are two different machines.
Cranes come in a variety of designs and sizes, just like the booms explored above. They are meant to lift heavy materials using a system of stabilizers and counterweights.
Boom trucks are usually smaller than cranes and meant to lift lighter loads. They are operated like regular trucks and do not require counterweights to stay stable. Boom trucks also do not have as many boom options as cranes do and can only be fitted with telescopic or articulating designs.
Sources: BigRentz, Wagstaff Crane, Sparrow Crane Hire, OUCO