Construction cranes have a long history starting in 3000 BC with the first type of crane, the shaduf. This was used to lift water for irrigation in Mesopotamia which is today’s Iraq. Consisting of a long counterbalanced pole on a pivot the attached bucket was used to lift water from its source and transport it to land or another waterway.
Today cranes have evolved from helpful tools for lifting water to industrial beasts that can lift up to 20,000 tons. Whether for simple transporting tasks or more elaborate glazing projects, you can find a crane that will provide you with the strength or height to get the job done. At UNIC our strongest crane is the UNIC URW-1006 Mini Spider Crane which can lift up to 10 tonnes.
Fact 1: The First Powered Construction Crane Was Made in 1850
After thousands of years of muscle-operated cranes, the industrial revolution became the catalyst for the advancement of modern cranes. Access to new technology allowed for the first steam crane to be invented, patented by Sir William Fairbairn in 1850. Using a combination of coal and water the steam generated was pressurised. This was then used as a counterweight to the items being lifted.
This sudden modernisation of cranes caused a competitive flurry in the construction industry which has lasted up until the modern era as technology continued to get better and the world changed.
UNIC Cranes Europe is the master dealer for the continent with a network spreading over 26 countries. Established in 2001 we have continued to bring innovative products to Europe and beyond. Seeing modern technology and ideas as an advantage we have chosen to keep updating our fleet to reflect new possibilities and the evolving needs of our customers. One example of this is our expanding range of electric options, namely our ECO Mini Spider Cranes. Currently supplying 4 types the UNIC Tracked Eco-295 is our strongest eco spider crane with tracked capabilities. With the same capabilities as its diesel counterparts but with zero emissions which is perfect for work in sensitive environments.
Fact 2: There Are Over 200,000 Cranes Around the World
Cranes are a highly useful tool that is used throughout a multitude of industries, this is because cranes increase productivity and the safety of many jobs. It is estimated that there are over 200,000 cranes around the world, with 125,000 being used in construction and 80,000 – 100,000 in general and maritime industries.
UNIC Cranes Europe covers large parts of the crane industry in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. With over 26 dealers we have the crane fleet and outreach needed for expanding our customer base. If you want a lifting solution tailored to you contact one of our experts for more information.
Fact 3: There Are Over 20 Types of Construction Cranes
Cranes are more than just tower cranes you see looming over skyscrapers in the city, there are many different types to suit a range of needs. Some like the tower crane are designed for long-term projects on tall buildings, meaning the expensive cost of installing them is worth it. Or overhead cranes which are great for use in factories that need permanent use on an assembly line.
UNIC’s cranes are designed for both short-term and long-term use due to their easy manoeuvrability. Our spider cranes are compact yet strong and suited for lifting up to 10 tonnes and use in most
environments. Their flexible outriggers mean despite their compact size they can lift heavy loads that are disproportionate to their size.
See how our Mini Spider Crane helped with a rail station extension.
Fact 4: Construction Cranes Can Be Very Dangerous
While cranes are generally very safe machines it can often be due to human error when cranes become dangerous i.e., use in bad weather, not doing regular maintenance checks or improper safety gear. By applying the correct health and safety measures to crane use you can easily avoid the associated risks.
According to annual statistics, 26% of injuries in construction were caused by slips, trips or falls between 2019 – 22. In our blog on Crane Safety During Winter we highlight the importance of this statistic. As bad weather such as snow, ice, and rain can make the ground or crane slippery this statistic is a reason to follow all necessary health and safety precautions.
Fact 5: UNIC Cranes Europe Supplies the World’s Most Compact Mini Cranes
Through years of development, UNIC developed a crane that could reduce itself to a boxlike shape. The smallest of which becomes as small as 595mm wide. This development revolutionised the mini crane and construction industry, providing a solution for restricted access jobs. Even now we are continuing to introduce innovative products to the market.
Contact us here to find out what more our UNIC cranes can do for you.
