Within the crane industry, 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 great feature of this equipment is its multi-functional ability to be able to navigate through all types of off-road terrain. Amongst the main selling characteristics of this specific crane is that it travels equally well at top speeds down roads.
The Very First Rough Terrain Crane
Grove launched the first rough terrain crane to the market in 1959. The crane was designed for the intended use of being a multi-purpose machinery for use on construction sites. The industrial strength of the crane's tires is capable of handling all types of difficult terrain and can transport small loads in carry mode. In the 1970s, the 4 axle Super-RT 1650 model was launched by Grove. This particular model has an 82.8 meter or 270 foot height under hook in production, in addition to a 135 ton lifting capacity. At the end of the day, the rough terrain crane would become the company's most notable machine over the years.
The Crane's Disadvantages
Amongst the main drawbacks of the rough terrain crane was the problem that it was not capable of being driven on public highways with any other traffic. Japan was the only nation within the world which will make an exception to this rule. In addition, another issue happened when the crane's lowered boom tended to block the driver's right and left views, that depends on how the cap was placed. All these problems with the crane's design ended up being both serious and hazardous and lead to a lot of accidents with RT cranes, especially while turning. Therefore, flatbeds, low-loaders, lowboys were used as the main method of transporting rough terrain cranes.