Selecting the Right Boom Truck for Drywall Deliveries
Of course, choosing the right crane is only the first part of selecting a boom truck. The truck chassis also requires some thought: incorrect specifications on the truck can affect the overall performance of the crane.
Here are some tips for choosing the right combination of truck and crane for drywall, which must be delivered at high altitudes and sometimes great distances.
crane specifications
There was a time when articulating cranes came second to rigid jib cranes. That is no longer the case, as companies in the building materials industry have come to understand the many benefits of articulating cranes. Because they are so widely used, this article discusses articulating cranes.
- If you are delivering materials to a site and require a long reach, make sure the crane has a boom with very little flex. For example, you may need to deliver drywall or other materials on high floors or maneuver around objects. A typical jib crane used for large drywall loads has a span of 70 feet. vertical height and 50 ft. horizontal reach. The rated capacity of the crane at its full vertical reach should be 7,500 lbs. or more. For its full horizontal reach it should be rated for approximately 3,000 lbs. These ratings ensure the highest accuracy in deliveries.
- Radio remote controls are vital for accurate and fast deliveries. Check the options on the remotes and rate them for smoothness of operation and different speeds. High flow load sensing hydraulics also increase delivery speed.
- Medium Drywall Cranes: Those with a maximum of 50 feet. boom length: They are not always equipped with radio remote controls, but that feature is becoming more common as radio controls offer greater precision and safety. You may want to ask your supplier about the various control options for smaller cranes.
truck specifications
If you’re hauling heavy loads like drywall, you need to consider the strength of the truck’s chassis and additional safety features like hydraulic outriggers.
The main chassis considerations are frame and axle capacities:
- The term “section modulus frame” refers to the relative strength of the frame in relation to its shape. Frames with a large section modulus will have the highest strength and the best ability to resist buckling under heavy loads. Secure a large section module for your drywall truck.
- A 24 ½ ft. truck bed. it is generally recommended, as it can carry 12 feet. drywall lengths.
- Although there may be different regulations in your geographic area, the standard axle rating for large drywall trucks is 20,000 lbs. front axle and 46,000 lbs. rear tandem.
- Hydraulic stabilizers should be enough to help increase the rigidity of the truck bed.
If you have any doubts about the compatibility of your truck and crane, ask your supplier for a computerized equipment matching service to ensure you select the right combination to maximize performance, safety and payload.
