Grove Adds 85-USt Teleboom Crawler to Lineup
April 6, 2022 - Manitowoc has added an eighth model to its lineup of telescopic-boom crawler cranes for the Americas.
The new GHC85 can lift up to 85 USt and features a 137.7’, five-section boom, the longest in its class, according to Manitowoc.
The new model sits in the middle of Grove's range of telecrawlers, which ranges in maximum lifting capacity from 30 to 140 USt.
The versatile new GHC85 is ideal for use in utility applications, general construction work, bridge work, pile driving, and as an assist crane for assembling other cranes.
Frame-mounted jacks and counterweight-lifting cylinders enable the crane to assemble itself, with assembly controlled via a wireless remote.
It can be transported in just three loads, or four when its crawlers are carried separately.
On site, it can travel quickly between lift sites and has 100% pick-and-carry capability on inclines up to 4°. That makes it suitable for repetitive utility work, such as setting poles, moving solar panels, or setting up larger cranes.
“The biggest advantage of a telecrawler is that you can work efficiently on both even and uneven terrain with solid pick-and-carry charts,” said JJ Grace, product manager for GHC cranes.
The 36” wide triple-bar grouser track pads offer stability and reduce soil compaction. Ground bearing pressures as low as 13.2 psi without load, and 24.9 psi with load.
Stability is enhanced by variable track stances that are adjusted hydraulically and can be symmetric or asymmetric. “The maximum track span is 16.7’, but one track could be at 100% and the other at 50%, enabling an operator to maneuver and pick in confined spaces,” Grace explained.
A Cummins B6.7L Tier 3 (218 hp / 164 kW) or Tier 4F (249 hp / 186 kW) engine powers the two-speed hydrostatic crawler drive. Maximum travel speed is 1.43 mph in high range, and 0.55 mph in low range.
Functions and options, such as working range limitation and a cold-weather package, will also appeal to those engaged in special civil and hydraulic engineering applications.
High and Mighty
The five-section telescopic boom extends from 36.1’ to 137.7’ and offers elevations from -3° to +80.5°. Its sections are adjusted by a four-stage cylinder. The 49.3’ bi-fold swing-away jib can be offset at 0°, 20°, or 40° and is useful for attachments that are ideal for the utility sector. A 10’ heavy-duty jib with 10° offset is another option, and it can stow on the left side of the boom.
The main and auxiliary hoists each have a piston motor and grooved drum that facilitates two-speed spooling for smooth operation. Each holds 591’ of 20 mm wire rope and provides a maximum permissible single-line pull of 15,876 lbs. Maximum line speed is 360 fpm.
Although the hoists are mounted over the rear counterweight, the in-cab monitor with a 7” screen lets the operator closely monitor hoist operation. Standard rear and right-hand cameras improve operator awareness. Engine bay sound insulation enables quiet communication with riggers on the jobsite.
The operator’s ability to view distant loads is improved in several ways, most notably through the standard 20° cab tilt. Other options include a radio remote control for operation from outside the cab, as well as a third hoist suited for foundation applications.
Operators will also appreciate the many ergonomic benefits of the high-vis cab, such as electric dual-axis controls, joystick-mounted control buttons for optional utility attachments, and the Graphical Rated Capacity Limiter. This system gives an audio-visual warning and control lever lockout whenever load limits are approached or exceeded. They also provide data on boom angle, length, and radius, plus maximum permissible load, momentary load, and inclinometer readings.
Learn more about the new Grove GHC85 here.
