Tower Cranes: A Contractor’s Guide

A tower crane is the machine a multi-storey building site is planned around. This short guide covers the main crane types, how capacity and height are chosen, how cranes are founded and what renting involves in Israel.

Main types

• Hammerhead (Topkit): a proven, economical configuration with a range of jib lengths, suited to most residential and office projects.
• Topless: no tower head, faster erection and dismantling, and easier height separation when cranes overlap.
• Luffing jib: works in a tight radius, for crowded city sites and work next to neighbours.

Capacity and height

The maximum capacity in a model name applies close to the tower only. Choose by the heaviest load at its working radius and by the load at the jib tip, using the manufacturer’s load chart. Above the free-standing height the crane is climbed with extra mast sections and tied to the building.

Foundation

A ballasted chassis avoids a concrete pour and can be moved later, but takes more space. Cast-in fixing anchors take little ground space but need a large concrete base and early planning.

Renting with RMA

As of 2026, RMA’s rental fleet includes 190 Potain MD and MDT tower cranes, and our service department looks after about 500 cranes across Israel with a team of 60 professionals, technicians and engineers. See the rental crane catalogue and our tower crane rental service, or contact us for a free needs assessment and initial planning (a full siting plan is priced separately).

This guide is general information and does not replace engineering, safety or legal advice for a specific site.