What is a hydraulic crane?
A Hydraulic Crane is a heavy-duty mobile crane that uses an internal hydraulic system to lift massive weights. The hydraulic system runs just like any other hydraulic mechanism; pressurised fluid is forced against a piston, transferring energy into the piston, which is then forced to lift or move something.
Background of Hydraulic Systems
A Hydraulic mechanism is commonly used in car brakes, car suspension, forklifts, diggers, log splitters and of course, cranes. Hydraulics are even used as part of the backup power system in a space shuttle.
The liquid that is used in hydraulic systems can be water, petrol-based or synthetic lubricants. The most common type of liquid used in modern hydraulic engines is petroleum-based fluids.
The hydraulic system works perfectly within a mobile crane, allowing the crane to lift extremely heavy loads. The compact nature of the mechanism means that even a large and powerful hydraulic engine can fit on a mobile vehicle base. This makes the hydraulic engine system a relatively standard feature of mobile cranes.
Hydraulic mobile cranes are known for their telescopic booms. The reach of the boom allows the crane to lift objects that are significant distances from the primary vehicle. It also allows for the crane to reach heights that rival fixed tower cranes. But don’t let the look of an extended boom confuse you, they can still lift considerable weights when fully extended. The nature of the hydraulic system means that constant pressure is maintained throughout the lift; making your cargo completely secure at all times when it is being lifted and placed with precision.
Benefits of a Hydraulic Crane
Simplicity
The hydraulic system has been around for hundreds of years, making it not only safe but straightforward. The mechanisms are easy to repair, quick to service and make for a mobile crane that is easy to keep in tip-top performance.
Light
Hydraulic Cranes are relatively lightweight. Most Hydraulic Mobile Cranes can be driven on ordinary roads and relocated to work or project sites simply and easily.
Flexibility
Hydraulic Cranes can be moved within worksites quickly or to and from sites. They can be mounted on vehicles that provide all-terrain access, making them useful on uneven ground surfaces such as sand, rubble and gravel.
Small
They are easy to move around when they are on a worksite because they are so compact.
Quick
Hydraulic cranes are quick to set up. A mobile hydraulic crane can be driven up to the work or project site, stabilised and be ready to use in no time at all. This not only saves time, but it means that your project runs smoothly and in a cost-effective way.
If you would like to know more about hydraulic cranes, how they work or how we maintain our fleet, then the team at Lindores Mobile Cranes are happy to help. The Lindores Mobile Cranes team offer a free site inspection with their crane hire to ensure that they can best match the your crane requirement with their fleet, to work through any safety considerations and also to help determine how long you will need the crane hire for. This is a complimentary service and is critical to the success of your crane hire.
To get in touch with the friendly team at Lindores Mobile Cranes, give them a call on 07 3376 0611 or 0412 791 118. Alternatively, you can send the team an email to info@lmcranes.com.au with any questions or requirements for your projects crane hire.
The Liftout
Urban construction across Brisbane’s inner suburbs, like Brisbane City, Fortitude Valley and West End, presents a unique challenge. Limited street access, tight driveways, weight-restricted concrete slabs, and close proximity to neighbouring buildings mean that traditional mobile cranes simply won’t fit. At Lindores Mobile Cranes , we’ve seen how mini crawler cranes are transforming the way construction is carried out on these sites. Compact, precise, and highly mobile, these machines are fast becoming essential for projects across Queensland . Rethinking Lifting for Urban Environments In city and suburban projects, space is at a premium. Construction teams often deal with narrow laneways, busy streets, or strict local council rules that make large-scale crane operations unfeasible. In some cases, access is so restricted that conventional lifting equipment can’t get anywhere near the job site. That’s where mini crawler cranes come in. Built specifically for tight and complex environments, these machines allow builders to lift heavy materials safely and efficiently, without the need for wide access or extensive setup areas. See our full fleet of mobile and mini cranes. Compact Size, Serious Capability Despite their size, mini crawler cranes don’t compromise on performance. Designed to operate in confined spaces, they’re able to move through narrow driveways and even fit inside buildings if required. Their rubber tracks reduce surface pressure, making them safe for use on rooftops or polished concrete slabs, and their zero tail-swing allows for safe manoeuvring in environments with little margin for error. These features make them ideal for everything from steel erection and glass installation to HVAC placement and residential renovations. We’ve supported projects as varied as boutique homes in New Farm and shopfront fit outs in Surfers Paradise , proving how versatile these compact machines really are. Designed for the Modern Job Site Mini crawler cranes are an increasingly popular choice for residential builds, renovations, and even commercial fit outs across Queensland. Their small footprint and fast setup time mean less downtime, lower costs, and fewer headaches when working in restricted-access environments. Ready to Lift Smarter in Tight Spaces? At Lindores Mobile Cranes , we’ve helped countless clients across Brisbane , the Gold Coast , and South East Queensland navigate complex job sites with ease. Our team can advise you on the right crane for your lift, organise pre-lift planning, and provide experienced operators who understand the ins and outs of working in urban environments. Contact our team today by calling 07 3376 0611 or email lmcorps@lmcranes.com.au.
Need a mobile crane for tight access jobs in Brisbane, Sunshine Coast or the Gold Coast? Hire compact, powerful mini crawler cranes from Lindores Mobile Cranes. Fast, safe, and affordable.
Learn how Lindores Mobile Cranes ensures safe, efficient crane hire through expert preventive maintenance. Servicing Brisbane & South East Queensland.