HDS mobile cranes - description, types, components
A mobile crane, otherwise known as a handling crane or HDS (hydraulic truck mounted crane) is a crane mounted on a vehicle. It is a device which is used for loading and unloading of goods. All mobile cranes are subject to technical inspection.
HDS cranes are divided into the following types:
- general-purpose cranes - have a structure rigidly mounted on the vehicle chassis, the jib works both horizontally and vertically
- forestry cranes for timber loading - equipped with grapples for lifting timber
In terms of where a mobile crane is installed, the following are distinguished:
- cranes mounted on the back of a vehicle with a load bed
- cranes mounted in the centre of the vehicle between the driver's cab and the body
HDS cranes are based on hydraulic technology - their components are controlled using a hydraulic system.
The main structural components of docking cranes are:
- supports - stabilize the device
- base - at the base of the crane
- column - a vertical member attached to the base of the crane
- jib - an adjustable element intended for load manipulation
To operate a handling crane, you need a relevant HDS qualification - this is obtained after taking part in HDS course. During the course, participants learn all about the theory behind the construction and operation of the machine, as well as about health and safety at work, and it also includes practical exercises that teach participants how to operate the equipment correctly.
Legal basis - selected documents:
- Regulation of the Council of Ministers of 7 December 2012 on types of technical devices subject to technical supervision (Journal of Laws 2012 No. 0 item 1468), issued on the basis of Article 5(2) of the Act on Technical Supervision.
- Ordinance of the Minister of Entrepreneurship and Technology of 30 October 2018 on the technical conditions of technical supervision in the operation, repair and modernisation of material handling equipment (Journal of Laws 2018 item 2176).
