Manitowoc MLC650 successfully completes load test

The crane lifted 650 tonnes of test weights, making the unit’s advertised capacity official. In light of the results, Manitowoc is confident that it will only be a matter of time before the crawler is introduced to the global market.

Dustin Soerens, marketing manager for lattice cranes at Manitowoc, said: “The lift went very smoothly. It was a momentous occasion for everyone at Manitowoc that has worked so hard to make this crane a reality. A large group of engineers witnessed the test lift and were very pleased with how the crane performed under load.”

The MLC650 has a 104m maximum main boom length. When coupled with the manufacturer’s optional luffing jib, the crane boasts a reach of 157m.

“This crane also features the innovative Variable Position Counterweight (VPC) technology, which worked perfectly to position the counterweight for each of the load scenarios,” Soerens explained.

The VPC system automatically positions the counterweight to fit the required lift. The advantages of this technology include the reduced need for ground preparation and lower ground-bearing pressure. Moreover, customers who opt for the VPC system do not have to buy, transport, or install as much counterweight compared to a traditional configuration.

During the course of the test, the MLC650 was fitted with hundreds of strain gauges that measured the tension and compression of the steel components of the crane while lifting. For the maximum load moment test, the crane was positioned to apply the maximum stresses through the structure, such as the boom positioned over the corner of the crawler crane.

“We performed a max-load test, a max-moment test, and a variety of lifts utilising different positions of the VPC, and they all were completed flawlessly,” said Soerens.

“The successful completion of the max-loading tests is a positive sign that the rest of the structural testing will go smoothly. Typically, if any major design changes would be required, they’re found during the max-load test. We can now rest assured that we’re well on our way to releasing this innovative crane to the global market,” he concluded.

by James Morgan on Jul 16, 2014