Many engineering sites utilise the specialised abilities of the hammer head crane. Its ability to horizontally transfer extreme loads is a marked feature of the cranes design, and one of the main advantages of its use today. These cranes are heavy industry cranes, generally constructed in large sizes and can weigh up to 350 tons.

Sometimes known as the cantilever crane, the hammer head crane is a fixed jib crane. It consists of a steel braced tower which is connected to a revolving, horizontal double cantilever; the forward part of this cantilever or jib carries the lifting trolley, the jib is extended backwards in order to form a support for the machinery and counterbalancing weight.

Hammerhead cranes have been installed in shipyards around the world. Their unique design and function make these cranes an extremely useful asset on large engineering and construction projects.