“Fixing angle” and “foundation anchor” are the two names you’ll see most often for the steel component that anchors a tower crane to its concrete foundation. Buyers frequently ask whether they’re the same thing — and more importantly, which one fits their crane. Here’s the straight answer.
What a fixing angle does
The fixing angle (also called a foundation anchor or base anchor) is embedded in or bolted to the concrete foundation. The first mast section of the tower bolts directly onto it. It carries the entire overturning moment of the crane into the foundation — which is why its steel grade, weld quality, and dimensional accuracy matter so much.
A typical unit, such as our P16A fixing angle, is fabricated from Q345B/Q235B structural steel, weighs around 800 kg, and ships with its fixing pins (Pin50 × 8).
Fixing angle vs foundation anchor — is there a difference?
In practice, the two terms describe the same component. “Fixing angle” is the term Potain uses; “foundation anchor” is the generic industry term. When a supplier lists both, they’re usually referring to the same product family — what matters is the type designation (P16A, P20A, P21A, P22A, P41A, P62B, …), not which of the two names is used.
Don’t confuse either of them with an anchorage frame — that’s a different component that ties the crane mast to the building structure above freestanding height.
Reusable vs single-use
This is the distinction that actually affects your cost:
- Single-use (embedded) fixing angles are cast into the foundation concrete and stay there permanently. You need a new one for every crane setup.
- Reusable fixing angles (e.g. the R20A type) are designed to be extracted from the foundation and used again on the next project.
If your company erects cranes frequently, reusable types pay for themselves quickly. For a one-off installation, the embedded type is simpler and cheaper.
How to choose the right one
- Match the mast type. A P16A fixing angle pairs with P16A mast sections; a P41A with P41A sections. The designation must match your tower — same rule as mast sections.
- Check weight and dimensions. Fixing angles range from a few hundred kilos to well over a tonne (a P22A is around 1,560 kg). Confirm your transport and handling plan.
- Confirm what’s included. Pins and bolts are sometimes included, sometimes not. Our P16A, for example, ships with 8 fixing pins.
- Decide reusable vs embedded based on how often you relocate cranes.
- Verify weld quality. Ask how the welds are inspected — full-penetration welds with proper inspection are non-negotiable for a foundation component.
Installation basics
- The fixing angle must be set perfectly level — any tilt transfers directly into the tower.
- Follow the foundation drawing for embedment depth, rebar layout, and concrete grade.
- Protect the machined connection surfaces from concrete splatter during the pour.
- Torque the mast connection bolts to the specified value and re-check after the first week of operation.
FAQ
Can I use a fixing angle from a different mast type?
No. The bolt/pin pattern is specific to each mast type. A P20A fixing angle will not accept a P16A mast section.
How do I know if my fixing angle is still usable?
Check for cracked welds, deformed connection faces, and corroded pin holes. Reusable types should be inspected by a competent person before each reuse.
What’s the difference between a fixing angle and a foundation bolt set?
Some smaller cranes anchor with individual foundation bolts instead of a fabricated angle frame. The principle is the same; the fixing angle is the standard solution for medium and large tower cranes.
Do you supply the pins with the fixing angle?
It varies by supplier and model — always confirm. Our fixing angles list included accessories explicitly (e.g. P16A includes Pin50 × 8).
HERO CRANE (Shenyang Hero Equipment) manufactures tower crane fixing angles and foundation anchors — P16A, P20A, P21A, P22A, P41A, P62B, reusable R20A types and more — for export worldwide. Contact us for specifications and pricing.