Why do skyscrapers have cranes on top? Explained Information

The crane that sits at the top of a skyscraper when it's being constructed is usually seen from a distance when you look at a skyscraper that's being constructed. A crane was responsible for helping the contractors build the skyscraper by moving the materials; they probably could finish the building on time with this crane.

However, it is still a mystery to many of us now for the first time. Can a crane be brought to the top of a skyscraper?

A few different approaches are taken by contractors when it comes to getting cranes to the top of skyscrapers to carry out the work, so there are several different answers to that question. Looking at the most commonly used methods, let's see which of them we can use.

Methods of climbing cranes

There are several reasons why cranes are used on skyscraper rooftops, some of them being maintenance, construction, and repairs, all of which contribute to the crane's presence on the rooftop.

The external climbing method

An alternative method for constructing a skyscraper is to use a crane that will be used during the construction of the structure by attaching the crane's base to a concrete slab located at the ground level of the building.

The internal climbing method

Depending on the type of building, either the crane will be located at the center of the structure, or a hydraulic cylinder will be used to lift the crane through the hollow interior of the building as each floor is constructed. During construction, steel beams provide the skyscraper with a sturdy foundation required to succeed in doing its job.

The “sky crane” method

It is a costly and logistically challenging method, only used occasionally. It has to be airlifted by a heavy-lift helicopter one piece at a time, as it is very expensive and technically difficult. Crane segments can weigh up to 20,000 pounds, so each piece of a crane must be lifted to the top of the skyscraper and placed safely down before a second piece can be lifted.

Benefits Of The External Raising Method

Using a tower crane externally when constructing a tall building is an excellent method for allowing progress to be resumed on each floor without halting construction inside. Each building floor is built using struts that raise the crane's base, and because of this, the crane can reach the top sections.

By doing this, downtime is minimized, especially when it comes to removing the crane from its anchor points. 

To raise a crane inside a building, each floor must be constructed. Instead of using a helicopter or other crane to lower a crane down the side of a building and anchor it again, the crane can be moved back down the side and anchored in place again by using a crane external to the building.

Conclusion

Lifting a crane onto a roof of a building is most effective when it comes from above and is transported by air. When working on a skyscraper, GeoQuip can assist you if you need a crane. We have been providing crane rentals in Florida to companies for more than 25 years, and we can help you with your next project, no matter how big or small it may be

For more information about crane rentals in Virginia and Florida, GeoQuip, call us today.