This fairly simple model of a Hammerhead Crane was first published in
the 1937 No.9/10 outfits instruction manual it was also published in the
1947-1954 9/10 manual in the red and green period. The 1937 manual
clearly show the change in balance between constructional parts and
strip and flexible plates. Although the previous range of sets A to L had
many of the new flexible and strip plates it carried over many of the
models from the earlier red and green sets with the emphasis on
constructional parts. The 1937 sets are far more orientated toward the
use of cheaper flexible and strip plates. This crane clearly lacks
constructional parts although I have added extra parts in the jib and
tower using strips to replace the string shown on the instructions.
The instructions show the crane as having all the functions hand
operated but I have used three small geared motors for the hoist,
trolley and boom rotation all operated through control box.
The bearing for the jib rotation was previously used on my recent
Pontoon Crane as were the three drive motors.
The model is built with 1930's blue and gold parts but many of the gold
parts have been resprayed. When I started building the model I was
not at all sure about all the plates but when completed the blue and
gold looks rather attractive particularly the tower corner strip plates.
Prototypes of this type of crane were built between the 1900s - 1970s
and can still seen be at naval dockyards and ship builders around the
world. Although referred to as "Hammer Head Cranes" the more
correct term should be a "Giant Cantilever Crane". There are or were
fine examples on Clydeside, Cowes, Halifax Nova Scotia and Sydney
Australia. They were designed to be used for very heavy lifting during
the fitting out and repair of large ships. Many of the cranes were
capable of lifts of over 250 tonnes. Their use was some what restricted
as they were built in a fixed position on the dock side.
I also have a built a much larger more detailed Hammerhead crane this
can be seen by clicking the link.
First published September 24 2024