Truck Cranes maneuvering are number one,” he added.
Other features high on Alamo operators’ lists are self-removing counterweights, hydraulic swing cabs and air suspension.
Marvin Ohlenbusch said that the recent truck crane developments that Alamo finds most interesting are variable-position outriggers, advancements in telematics and the overall computerization of the equipment.
“ All of those advancements make operation and maintenance, easier, safer and more efficient,” he added.
The All Family of Companies is the largest privately-owned crane rental and sales business in North America.
Its more than 3,600 pieces of lifting equipment range in capacity from 3.1 to 1,200 tons.
That impressive inventory includes a fleet of truck cranes with maximum capacities from 40 to 115 tons.
Brian Meek, project manager, said truck cranes have relatively low axle loads, travel well on highways and can cover long distances, which makes them great
for jobs with those requirements.
He added that truck cranes’ fast setup and take down make them excellent for doing multiple jobs in a day.
Most of All’ s truck cranes need a permit to travel on public roads, he said, but the manufacturers’ success at minimizing axle loads makes permits easy to get.
Meek added that truck cranes work best on jobsites with flat, smooth, hard terrain, such as parking lots or construction sites that have firm, level ground.
He noted that although truck cranes with capacities in the 40- to 60-ton range now see competition from boom trucks, each type of crane has advantages.
“ Although boom trucks often have longer booms,” Meek said,“ truck cranes usually have more lifting capacity.”
In general, All’ s operators move from rig to rig to meet the flow of work.
“ Fortunately, truck crane manufacturers have made their products somewhat similar,” said Meek,“ so it’ s easy for an operator to be comfortable in any brand.”
All’ s top three factors when evaluating a truck crane are axle loads, boom length and lifting capacity, said Meek.
What new developments in truck cranes does All find most exciting?
“ A few manufacturers are incorporating European-style superstructures onto their North American carriers, reminiscent of an all-terrain crane,” said Meek.“ We are intrigued by the possibilities.”
He explained that a European-style upperworks emphasizes compactness, light weight, using one carrier-mounted engine to power both travel and crane operation( instead of having separate engines for the carrier and crane) and more flexibility in positioning axles to meet roading regulations.
“ It’ s encouraging to see truck crane manufacturers continue to invest heavily in this market,” said Meek.“ Reliable truck cranes will always be in demand.”
He added that they are ideal for steel erection, general construction, HVAC work and agricultural applications.
“ That’ s why truck cranes will always have a place in the All fleet,” Meek said.
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