The all-terrain crane is considered within the crane business as being a luxury model of a mobile hydraulic crane. It has the reputation of being similar to driving a Hummer or a Range Rover on pavement. All-terrain cranes are considered to be a hybrid between a mobile truck crane and rough terrain crane. Another remarkable feature of this particular machine is its multi-functional ability to be able to traverse through all types of off-road terrain. Amongst the main selling characteristics of this specific crane is that it travels equally well at high speeds down roads.
The Very First Rough Terrain Crane
Grove launched the very first rough terrain crane to the market in the year 1959. The crane was designed for the intended application of being a multi-purpose machine for use on construction sites. The industrial strength of the crane's tires could handle all types of difficult terrain and can transport small loads in carry mode. During the 1970s, Grove launched the 4 axle Super-RT 1650 model. This specific 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 most remarkable machine of the company over the years.
The Crane's Disadvantages
The rough terrain crane is not without its disadvantages since it is not able to be driven on public highways with any other traffic. Japan is the one nation which has made this rule an exception. Additionally, one more problem occurred when the crane's lowered boom tended to block the driver's left and right views, depending on how the cap was placed. All the issues with the crane's design ended up being both dangerous and serious and lead to lots of accidents with RT cranes, particularly while turning. As a result, lowboys, flatbeds, low-loaders were utilized as the primary means of transporting rough terrain cranes.