When Is Crane Usage Necessary?

Removing huge, dangerous, or storm-damaged trees is a complex project. Many factors are considered during the initial assessment to determine the safest and most efficient plan to execute, and crane usage is a great option.

BeaverJack Tree Service, LLC has a 108-foot truck-mounted knuckle-boom crane with a grapple saw attachment, used to perform large-scale tree service operations safely and effectively. Performing removals using our knuckle-boom crane allows us to customize our route of execution to your specific tree service needs, making your service as smooth as possible for both you and our crew.

How Does the Grapple Saw Work?

When using the grapple saw attachment with our crane, tree services that standardly take multiple days can be performed in only hours, allowing your service to be time effective and safe. The grapple saw is attached to our knuckle-boom crane mounted on the bed of our truck. Once connected, the grapple saw can be used to securely grab onto the tree, make a cut, and remove the piece, placing it safely on the ground after. The crane operator can use remote controls to operate the grapple saw precisely from a safe distance. This equipment allows crews to work more effectively in less time, speeding up the tree service process.

Our Crane-Assisted Tree Removal Process

Step 1

Upon arrival at the tree removal site, our certified arborists and tree crew will conduct their pre-work assessment, and the best location for crane setup will be determined. Multiple factors will be taken into consideration, such as elevation/grade changes, overhead obstacles, distance from the landing and picking areas, and the space needed for the crane.

Step 2

The arborists and tree crew will begin to execute their removal strategy. Each cut and lift will be carefully planned and discussed. The removal strategy will vary depending on if the grapple saw is being used or not and the following conditions: the weight of the pieces to be removed, the angle and growth pattern of the pieces, and the size of the area that the pieces will have to be moved through and lowered into. The climber and crane operator must be able to accurately estimate the piece's weight before cutting. If the operating capacity of the crane is exceeded, it could cause the crane to turn over. Each tree's growth pattern and angle are also considered, such as large horizontal limbs on oak trees requiring different rigging and lifting methods than a pine tree with a vertical growth pattern.

Step 3

The removal process begins once the crew has positioned themselves for removal. The climber or the grapple saw will start to make the appropriate cut for the situation. Simultaneously, the crane operator will apply the correct amount of force and boom the crane into the proper place to extract the piece. As soon as the piece has been cut all the way, it will be safely lifted and maneuvered through the air to the drop zone.