THE Manitowoc MLC650 crawler crane has successfully completed the required load test to validate its maximum lifting capacity. The crane lifted 650 tonnes (717 US t) of test weights, making the crane’s advertised capacity official.

Dustin Soerens, marketing manager for lattice cranes at Manitowoc, said the test went as expected.

“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,” he said. “A large group of engineers witnessed the test lift and were very pleased with how the crane performed under load.”

The MLC650 is on schedule and working perfectly, which means it’s only a matter of time before the crane is ready for the global market. It has a 104 m (341 ft) maximum main boom length and a luffing jib that can be added to reach a maximum combination of 157 m (515 ft).

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

The VPC system automatically positions the counterweight to fit the required lift. Advantages for customers include reduced ground preparation, lower ground-bearing pressure and less counterweight, all without sacrificing capacity. Also, customers will not have to buy, transport or install as much counterweight compared with a traditional configuration.