Auto-Klug has acquired its first Grove GMK4100L-1 all-terrain crane. It was delivered to the company’s Bindlach branch in southeast Germany, where it plans to use the crane to support its transport operations.
The 100-tonne capacity, four-axle crane has a 60-meter main boom. It is commonly used as a taxi crane because it weighs less than 12 tonnes per axle even when equipped with 6.7 tonnes of counterweight. This unit also has aluminum rims to reduce the crane’s weight, making it more roadable while increasing operating margins.
“We are pleased to take delivery of such a versatile crane,” explained Werner Glück, managing partner at Auto-Klug. “It will enable us to maneuver the crane in tighter job sites and complete lifts that we once had to use larger cranes for. We were also convinced by the single-engine concept.”
Auto-Klug’s Grove GMK4100L-1 is also the first in Germany to be equipped with a K-100 synthetic rope. Made from a combination of high-performance synthetic fibers, the K-100 is 80% lighter than wire rope and boasts torque-neutral construction that eliminates load spin and cabling. The new hoist material also makes for easy handling, reeving and installation. Because it does not require lubrication with heavy grease, it is environmentally friendly.
“We have been very intrigued by the K-100 synthetic rope and the benefits it offers,” Glück said. “It helps us by reducing weight and maintenance effort, and it also makes it easier for the operator to reeve the rope on the jib and hook blocks. It will eliminate some of the issues they face with kinking, bird caging, and spooling damage. In the end, this will also help us to reduce costs.”
