On any construction site of any size, there comes a time when a small crane is too small. Steel beam too heavy, reach too far, load just won’t budge safely, unless it’s under 40 tons. That’s why the 50 ton crane is one of the most sought after crane rental classes in UAE. Large enough to use for serious structural work, but small enough to operate on the relatively compact site without the need for a small convoy.
When you have a project where you’re thinking about hiring a crane, here’s what you need to know before you call a rental company to reserve a 50 ton crane.
What Makes a 50 Ton Crane Different
What Makes a 50 Ton Crane Different, is a book that examines the construction of 50 tonne cranes.
By its name you have the headline number, but there’s more depth to it than that. A 50 ton crane has a lifting capacity of about 100,000 lbs, and is easily moved from one site to another using a truck chassis. That’s mobility too — you don’t have to wait on a separate low loader to move the machine.
Usually powered by a diesel engine, these cranes are equipped with hydraulic systems for the boom and other moving parts, which allow for smooth and precise operations from the cab. Add outriggers and counterweights for stability and you have a machine designed specifically to lift heavy loads without toppling over, provided that everyone adheres to the load chart, of course. More on this soon.
The Length and Reach of the Boom
This is where our 50 ton crane really shines. Beyond this tonnage the reach and height open up significantly.
One popular truck crane, with a 50 ton capacity has a main boom 5-section from 11.5 m to 42.5 m, and with an optional 16 m jib, can lift up to 58.8 m. It is sufficient to work on mid-rise structures without using tower crane.
Other models go even further with boom length. A 44 metre boom with five sections, which is able to lift up to 59.5 metres, is mounted on some of the 50 tonne truck cranes, which are designed to operate effectively at ambient temperatures of up to 45°C. The heating part of the crane is the most significant of them — in UAE summers, a crane that cannot withstand it is not a crane that you would want to have on your project
In general, the boom is between 30 and 150 feet or longer, depending on the manufacturer, providing the contractor with flexibility in choosing the machine to fit the job.
What Are 50-Tonne Capacity Cranes Used For?
An ever-present presence in UAE construction and infrastructure projects, this tonnage class is not without reason, as it falls neatly within the balance of raw power and site viability.
Installing bridges and other infrastructure. The work of bridges, towers and communication equipment is large and precision, and the precision handling of the large components is generally completed by fifty-ton truck cranes.
Oil & gas facilities. The cranes lift and place heavy machinery on oil rigs and construction sites for refineries, such as pipelines and large tanks.
Work in the service of public utilities and in maintenance. Electrical transformers, generators and other heavy electrical components are often lifted and placed using 50 ton cranes when installing or maintaining them.
Event setups and structures. This crane class is used beyond construction, for setting up stages, lighting rigs and other heavy equipment used in large outdoor events and festivals.
Given the diversity here it is worth checking with the rental company that the model they are renting is the same model that you are using for your application – a 100 tonne crane will not automatically be optimized for event rigging if it is a bridge model.
Load Capacity Changes With Distance (Always)
As you’ve read in our other crane guides, this is a rule that’s one you already know, but it still holds true at any tonnage level, including 50 tons. Rated tonnage is a maximum, NOT a constant.
The crane’s actual safe lifting capability decreases as the boom is extended outwards or as the working radius increases. This is due to the amount of load moment, which is the force that causes a structure to tip over, as the boom is extended from the crane’s centre. A crane lifted close to its base is able to lift much more weight than when extended out at 30m.
That is why the load chart in the cab is all the time the most important reference document for any lift. Either skipping it or assuming that rated capacity is always the same no matter what the boom position is is one of the quickest ways to make a seemingly routine lift a serious incident.
Safety and Compliance Rules in UAE
Safety and compliance rules in UAE.Safety and compliance rules in the UAE.
This doesn’t do any good if the crane is not being used according to the known safety standards, and that is taken seriously by the UAE everywhere.
The UAE has stringent regulations in place concerning the safety and operational practices of construction and heavy lifting activities and how well a rental company adheres to these regulations can greatly influence the company’s reputation in the market. If the provider doesn’t pay attention to the questions regarding the certification, it’s a definite red flag to move on.
All reputable rental companies in the UAE should adhere to both its safety standards and international lifting standards, with no doubt or opting out. Don’t just ask in general, ask the specific question: What are the 50 ton units you are renting that are capable of meeting these standards on my site?
Equal attention should be given to operator qualification. Using a 50 ton crane without a qualified operator is not a quick and easy way to save money; it’s a potential liability to the entire crew.
Choosing the Right Rental Company
It is not wise to hire this size of crane on the cheapest price. Several checks can truly help your project run more smoothly.
Ask for this specific loading chart for the model. The tonnage will vary significantly from boom angle to radius, so don’t ask to be provided with a generic tonnage sheet, ask for the specific tonnage chart for the unit you are renting.
First is confirming a site survey. The team will usually be sent by established rental companies before the crane arrives to examine the ground and specific needs of the project. This is a machine that can’t be taken for granted when it comes to ground stability.
Inquire about rental rates and options. A number of crane rental companies in UAE cater for short term and long term rentals and extensions can also be arranged if schedule changes. Jobs that are fifty tons last longer than they may seem to, and that is where flexibility really counts.
Make sure you understand what is covered in the rental fee. Some carriers include transport vehicles like lowbeds and flatbeds for large loads in the package, others charge for the flatbed separately. Have this in writing first, before signing any documents.
Common Errors That You Should Steer Clear Of
There are a few common errors that account for the majority of the problems that occur with 50 ton crane hire, and most of these can be avoided.
The largest one is assuming that the boom is at maximum length. The rated 50 ton number applies only at very specific, close range circumstances – pull the boom out and that number decreases rapidly.
Another common problem is the failure to carry out the ground assessment prior to mobilization. Firm, level ground is essential for this crane and even the best rated cranes will be unstable if the ground is not level or firm.
Not preparing for transport and permit logistics can also lead to delays. It takes time to plan an all-city crane move, with the right road permits, and timing, so it is best to make it part of your schedule rather than a last minute scrambling.
Final Thoughts on 50 Ton Crane Rental in UAE
There are times in UAE construction when a 50 ton crane really gets its job done, and it’s powerful enough for bridge work, utility installations, heavy structural lifts and much more, but not so overwhelming that it’s impractical or expensive to move it into place. The secrets to using one well are respecting the load chart, verifying certifications, and selecting a rental company that prioritizes safety over a secondary concern.
Once you get those basics correct, a 50 ton crane becomes one of the most reliable tools to which you can bring to a project.