When you decide to rent or buy a tower crane, the first technical question you will face is: "Do you want a Hammerhead crane or a Flat Top one?" Known in industry jargon as "Hammerhead" (Tie-rod) and "Flat Top" (Tie-less), these two models actually do the same job, but differ significantly in terms of assembly techniques, working areas, and costs. As Turkish Tower Cranes, we have analyzed the technical details of these two giants and which one is suitable for your project in detail in the 2025 projection.
1. HAMMERHEAD CRANES
It is the classic crane type we encounter most frequently on construction sites in Turkey.
Technical Structure: The most distinctive feature of Hammerhead cranes is the vertical structure called "Cat Head" or "Pyramid" rising at the point where the tower body ends. From this peak point, steel wire tie-rods extend to the front jib and rear counter jib of the crane.
Advantages:
- Geometric Strength: The tie-rod structure distributes the load very well due to the laws of physics.
- Wind Resistance: The truss structure and tie-rod system provide flexible resistance against wind loads.
- Cost: Production costs are generally slightly lower than Flat Top cranes.
Disadvantages:
- Height Issue (Overlap): The "Cat Head" on top is a major problem on sites with multiple cranes.
- Assembly Area: Requires a large ground area for assembly.
2. FLAT TOP CRANES
A modern and compact crane type that has spread from Europe to the world in the last 20 years.
Technical Structure: As the name suggests, these cranes do not have a cat head and tie rods on top. The jib sits directly flat on the slewing unit.
Advantages:
- Collision Prevention: Ideal for crowded sites ("Crane Forest").
- Aerial Assembly: Can be assembled in the air, piece by piece.
- Logistics: Compact parts make transportation easier.
- Speed: Assembly times are 20-30% shorter.
COMPARISON AND SELECTION GUIDE
Scenario A: Large Area Mass Housing -> Hammerhead Scenario B: City Center Skyscraper / Narrow Area -> Flat Top