Author Archive for Gabrielle Gardiner
Tower Cranes: How They Work and Why You Should Care
Image Source: https://pixabay.com/photos/silhouette-buildings-sunset-5236702/
From manufacturing to shipbuilding to towering city skylines, just about every sector of the construction industry would be nothing without the contributions of crane technology. The simple lever-and-pulley robotics of a tower crane serves as a practical way of assembling massive structures and lifting upwards of 40,000 pounds of material at once.
But have you ever driven by a bustling construction site and wondered how cranes work? The vast abilities of tower cranes often go overlooked by those not working in construction, but it’s important to understand the functions and self-sufficient nature of these powerful machines.
Structure of a Tower Crane
Though their technology may be conceptually simple, tower cranes have a complex makeup of moving parts that allow for maximum performance when lifting heavy loads. The crane’s tower, which extends upward from the base, remains stable due to a solid concrete foundation at the base. On the upper end sits a rotating device known as a turntable, which allows for a 360-degree view from the operator’s cab at the crane’s apex.
The parts of the crane that do the actual lifting are a trolley and hook block, which span a long, arm-like jib that extends from the top of the crane. This mechanism allows the crane to vertically lift and lower loads of materials. The trolley and hook block harness movement from the crane’s main winch, which is a motorized component that sits behind the operator’s cab. To balance the mass amounts of weights a tower crane handles, counterweights hang from a counterjib that stretches behind the operator cab.
How Are Tower Cranes Built?
There is only one piece of machinery that could properly assemble something as unique as a crane: itself!
Builders start by using mobile cranes meant for smaller-scale structures (shorter buildings, machinery, etc.) to lay the concrete foundation and assemble several of the tower crane’s parts, such as the jib, operator’s crane, and counterjib. Then, the mobile crane begins lifting sections of the tower into place. Once the tower reaches a sufficient length, builders use a hydraulic jack and what already exists of the tower crane to assemble the rest of its own tower.
This unique construction process is why those in the construction industry consider tower cranes to be such self-sustaining and powerful tools. Several of the most famous buildings in the urban world, including such giants as the One World Trade Center in New York City, would not have been possible without this technological innovation. Standing among some of the world’s most impressive cranes, they will remain crucial tools in urban development.
So next time you find yourself in the city and pass by a massive tower crane, always remember what a fascinating piece of equipment is staring right back at you. Knowing how they function, as well as their practical applications to building and machinery, will be essential for anyone entering the field of construction or robotics. For a more visual demonstration of how tower cranes work, be sure to check out the following helpful animated crane graphic from the BigRentz team!
How to Support Small Businesses in the Pandemic Economy
Although most small businesses have already felt the most intense negative effects of the COVID-19 lockdown, chances are that they’re still recovering on many levels. Small businesses in every community are still fully financially recovering and can use your continued support. Want to be a long-term partner in the success of the entrepreneurs and family-owned businesses in your area? We put together some actions you can take:
1) Participate in Crowd-Funding
Crowdfunding is defined as the act of funding a project by raising small amounts of money from a large number of people. In terms of helping small businesses, this can be an extremely viable way to lend a helping hand. Why not assist with building the long-term financial foundations of your favorite small businesses in your community?
2) Buy Essentials Locally
Rest assured that your hard-earned cash is better off in the hands of local entrepreneurs than corporate giants. Keep in mind that family-owned businesses can get hit hard with the cost of rent. Even if they seem to be doing well, you never know the bills they’re struggling with on a daily basis.
3) Support Via Social Media
Buy locally and also, but also to post about it on your social accounts and spread the word. Word of mouth recommendations can go a long way, too. Have a friend looking to purchase a gift? Recommend a local gift shop. Most small businesses have online shops, so geography doesn’t matter.
Unfortunately, many small businesses are feeling the continued impact of decreased revenue due to COVID-19. Since new entrepreneurial ventures don’t always have the strongest emergency fund or access to governmental resources yet, they rely on community support.
It’s time to step up to the plate if you haven’t already. It’s a win-win situation because supporting family-owned businesses help boost the overall economy. Encourage your family and friends to do the same and buy local. Every referral counts!
Take a look at the graphic below from The Zebra to learn more examples of how to support small businesses during the pandemic.
How to Succeed in the New World of Networking Online
To thrive in the post-pandemic world of networking, professionals need to refresh their approaches to building their networks. Since networking online is the only option right now, it’s more important than ever before to try new tactics. Your digital personal brand is vital to your success. No matter your career path, there are opportunities to participate in remote networking through webinars, online workshops, and more. In fact, some of the best professional networking events are going digital and will be more accessible than ever before.
First, it’s important to audit your online professional networking habits. Do your virtual interactions reflect how you portray yourself in-person? Do you have a “digital handshake” that leaves a positive impression? Have you mastered the art of following up without seeming relentless? Being tech-savvy and virtually showcasing your soft skills are imperative to stand out amid the new wave of networking.
You need to convey not only your expertise but also your personality through a screen—much easier said than done. Digital events and networking Zoom calls give you the chance to connect with fellow participants and industry leaders like you would at a conference, but usually in a smaller, more personal group. Also, there are Facebook, LinkedIn, and Slack communities where you can connect and share ideas. Try not to be disappointed by canceled conferences and professional happy hours—there’s still plenty of potential for building meaningful relationships through online networking in 2020.
Try approaching networking online in a proactive way in the wake of COVID-19. With increased stress levels, it’s easy to do just the bare minimum networking-wise. Don’t fall into the trap. Focus on the advantages of connecting with fellow professionals online, try some new platforms, and make networking a habit. Below, check out a fun and helpful graphic from LiveCareer with tips on how to make the most of networking online.
