AN Edinburgh-based crane specialist has added three new models as part of its fleet investment programme.
Bernard Hunter Mobile Cranes has taken delivery of a Spierings SK1265-AT6 and two Liebherr models with 50 and 230-tonne capacities respectively.
The six-axle Spierings SK1265-AT6 is the world’s largest mobile tower crane. Bernard Hunter operates two of these within its fleet. Delivering an operating radius of 60m, the model boasts a maximum load capacity of 10,000kg up to 13.2m, along with a tower height of 37.2m and a maximum lifting height of 35m. The crane’s one man operation permits a set up time of just eleven minutes after the crane is set on its outriggers.
Also joining the fleet is the three-axle 50-tonne Liebherr LTM1050-3.1, which includes Liebherr’s ECOmode, ECOdrive and VarioBase technologies. ECOmode provides automatic regulation of the engine speeds during crane mode, whilst the ECOdrive system provides driving strategies in the carrier with ECO or Powermodes to reduce noise and fuel consumption in transit. The VarioBase outrigger control system is designed to deliver enhanced safety and performance standards when space is constricted. Powered by a 367hp, six cylinder Liebherr engine, the LTM1050-3.1 is equipped with a ZF 12-speed gearbox, all-axle steering and 38m boom with one base and three telescopic sections boosted by a flexible assembly jib.
Bernard Hunter has also invested in a 230-tonne Liebherr LTM1230-5.1 mobile crane. This five-axle machine is said to feature a raft of new technologies within its 15.5m overall length. The crane boom comprises one base section and seven telescopic sections, which with a fly jib, give a reach of around 86m and a maximum height of 111m.
A single 544hp Liebherr Euro 6 engine powers both the carrier and crane. The engine also benefits from ECOMode. A ZF Traxon automated gearbox provides 12 forward and two reverse gears with ECOdrive software. The 230-tonner is equipped with Liebherr’s VarioBallast, which increases the counterweight radius, where space permits, thereby boosting lifting capacity.
All three new cranes were specified with Michelin tyres and Bernard Hunter has recently installed an AGL Vehicle Solutions fleet tracking and telematics system across its car, truck and mobile crane fleet.
Mark Rafferty, MD at Bernard Hunter Mobile Cranes said, “The Covid-19 pandemic has produced many operational re-thinks, but we decided to concentrate on our planned, new crane investment programme despite the challenges. We’ve had to maintain service levels for our oil/gas industry and energy production customers, with a constant safety management around frequently changing regulations.
“Enhanced hygiene levels and social distancing are the new norm and we’re fully prepared for the government’s recent move to restart the construction industry. The new Spierings mobile tower crane and the two Liebherr mobile cranes bring new levels of safety and technology to our crane fleet and deliver the very latest efficiency standards to our customer base.
“We are already seeing several benefits from the data available through our AGL Vehicle Solutions tracking system. The real time and historical vehicle information available adds a new angle to our extensive compliance levels.”
