Climbing Frame for Tower Cranes | Component Directory

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Climbing Frame

Definition

A climbing frame is a critical structural component of a climbing tower crane that allows the crane to raise itself vertically as a building's height increases. It consists of a rigid steel framework that attaches to the building structure and provides support for hydraulic or mechanical climbing mechanisms. The frame enables the crane to 'climb' by lifting its own mast sections through controlled sequential operations, maintaining stability and load capacity during the climbing process. The frame is typically made of structural steel (e.g., Q345B) and uses high-strength bolts for connections. It integrates hydraulic cylinders and other components to perform the lifting action. The frame's dimensions and capacities are matched to the tower crane's class, with rated lifting capacity ranging from 8 to 64 tonnes, frame height from 2.5 to 6.0 meters, and frame width from 1.8 to 4.5 meters. The climbing stroke per cycle is 1.5 to 3.0 meters, and the operating pressure of the hydraulic system is 16 to 25 MPa. Climbing speed ranges from 0.2 to 0.6 meters per minute. The frame is designed to operate within a temperature range of -20°C to 50°C and can withstand wind speeds up to 20 m/s during operation. The frame weight varies from 2.5 to 8.0 tonnes, and the hydraulic cylinder diameter is 100 to 200 mm. Pin hole tolerance is H7 to ensure alignment with mast lugs. These parameters are reference ranges and must be verified for the specific model and application. The climbing frame is a part-level component used in the manufacturing of other transport equipment, specifically tower cranes. It is not a standalone product but an integral part of the crane system. When selecting a climbing frame, it is essential to confirm compatibility with the tower crane model, building structure, and site conditions. Verification questions include checking the frame's load capacity, dimensions, and compliance with relevant standards such as GB/T 3811 for crane design for pressure, ISO 4302 for wind load, and GB/T 1591 for material grade. Always consult the legal manufacturer or supplier for model-specific values and standards.

Working Principle

The climbing frame operates by first being securely anchored to the building structure. Hydraulic cylinders or mechanical jacks within the frame then lift the crane's upper sections (including the slewing unit, jib, and counter-jib) while the lower mast sections remain fixed. Once elevated, new mast sections are inserted into the gap, and the climbing frame transfers the load to the newly extended structure. This process repeats as needed to match the building's construction progress.

Common Materials

Structural steel, High-strength bolts, Hydraulic components

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Rated Lifting Capacity	8–64 t	Matches tower crane capacity classGB/T 3811
Frame Height	2.5–6.0 m	Determines climbing stroke per cycle
Frame Width	1.8–4.5 m	Must fit tower mast section
Climbing Stroke	1.5–3.0 m	One hydraulic cylinder stroke
Operating Pressure	16–25 MPa	Below 16 MPa insufficient lifting force
Climbing Speed	0.2–0.6 m/min	Higher speed reduces cycle time
Max Wind Speed for Operation	13.8–20.0 m/s	Above 20 m/s climbing must stopISO 4302
Operating Temperature Range	-20–50 °C	Below -20°C steel becomes brittle
Material Grade	Q345B	Yield strength ≥345 MPaGB/T 1591
Frame Weight	2.5–8.0 t	Affects crane counterweight and transport
Hydraulic Cylinder Diameter	100–200 mm	Determines lifting forceISO 6020-2
Pin Hole Tolerance	H7	Ensures alignment with mast lugsISO 286-2

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM

Main Frame Structure Part
Provides primary structural support and load transfer during climbing operations

Material: Structural steel
Hydraulic Climbing Cylinders
Generate controlled vertical force to lift crane sections

Material: Steel with hydraulic seals
Attachment Brackets Part
Secure the climbing frame to the building structure

Material: High-strength steel
Guide Rails Part
Ensure straight vertical movement during climbing process

Material: Steel
Control System
Manages hydraulic pressure and climbing sequence

Material: Electronic components with steel housing
Mechanical Jacks Optional
Lift the upper crane on jack-type climbing frames instead of cylinders.

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Climbing Frame.

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Tower Crane

View system integration details

Manufacturers of Climbing Frame

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of a climbing frame?

The climbing frame enables a tower crane to increase its height by lifting its upper sections and inserting new mast sections, allowing the crane to follow the building's vertical growth.

What materials are typically used in a climbing frame?

Climbing frames are typically made of structural steel (e.g., Q345B) and use high-strength bolts for connections. Hydraulic components are also integral to the climbing mechanism.

What are the key parameters to consider when selecting a climbing frame?

Key parameters include rated lifting capacity (8-64 t), frame height (2.5-6.0 m), frame width (1.8-4.5 m), climbing stroke (1.5-3.0 m), operating pressure (16-25 MPa), climbing speed (0.2-0.6 m/min), and operating temperature range (-20°C to 50°C). These must be matched to the crane and site conditions.

What standards apply to climbing frames?

Relevant standards include GB/T 3811 for crane design, ISO 4302 for wind load, and GB/T 1591 for material grade. Always verify compliance with the manufacturer.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification

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pressure:	N/A (structural load-bearing component)
other spec:	Max vertical load: 500 kN, Max wind speed during operation: 20 m/s, Max climbing speed: 0.5 m/min
temperature:	-20°C to +50°C (operational ambient range)

Climbing Frame

Product Specifications

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Applied To / Applications

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

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