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If you’re in the crane industry, you’ve likely heard of WOLFFKRAN, but how much do you know about the company’s history? It’s an interesting story, and one that has led to a customer pack that has been growing for over 100 years.
The journey began over 170 years ago in Heilbronn, Germany, when Friedrich August Wolff, a pewterer, founded an iron foundry in 1854. This marked the beginning of what would eventually become WOLFFKRAN. Under the direction of Julius Wolff, Friedrich’s youngest son, the company transitioned from producing cast iron goods to specializing in hoisting and conveying engineering.
By 1898, WOLFFKRAN had manufactured its first slewing crane, marking its entry into the crane industry.
In 1913, the company developed the first mobile and fast-assembly tower crane — an innovation that established the company as a pioneer in crane technology. The company continued to push engineering boundaries, introducing the pin connection in 1963, which became the foundation for modular crane construction.
“Since its establishment in 1854, WOLFFKRAN has revolutionized the construction industry with its innovative crane technology, evolving from a small German forge to a global leader in tower crane manufacturing,” WOLFFKRAN Sales Manager Cody Good told Crane Hot Line.
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the growth of the WOLFFKRAN pack really took off.
Under the leadership of Dr. Peter Schiefer in 2005, the company set up subsidiaries in Switzerland, Central Europe, the Middle East, North America, Australia and Southeast Asia. This era also saw the introduction of the XXL crane series, capable of lifting up to 50 tons, setting new industry standards.
“WOLFFKRAN seems to be on the cutting edge of technology and understands the need for timely replacement parts, which is what is needed in the U.S. market to be successful,” Randy Huffman, vice president of Custom Service Crane, Inc., told Crane Hot Line.
Remaining dedicated to developing new models and integrating technology for improved efficiency and safety, just last year the company launched their high-speed positioning system (HiSPS), a BIM-compatible digital assistance system that enhanced load movement by preventing crane hook swinging and enabling precise load positioning.
“The new WOLFF high-speed positioning system is a fantastic tool that is really one of those you need to try to fully understand the difference it can make. It increases job site efficiency, load safety and reduces crane dynamic loading making everything more stable in the air,” Good added.
When it comes to the crane industry, having the right equipment is crucial. According to Nick Gabriel, project coordinator for Morwest Crane & Service Ltd., WOLFFKRAN stands out for providing an array of crane options that cater to various job requirements.
“The options available make it easy to accommodate any job scope. The different tower varieties and the internal and external climbers, to name a few,” Gabriel told Crane Hot Line. “The quality and longevity of their cranes also stand out. The legacy cranes we have in our fleet still operate flawlessly despite their age.”
It’s probably safe to assume that Friedrich August Wolff, nor his son, ever envisioned WOLFFKRAN becoming what it is today. It’s also safe to assume that this pack isn’t done growing quite yet.
“I expect big things coming in the future,” Mark Bruner, crane department manager for Baker Equipment and Materials, told Crane Hot Line. “Especially the new model 8038 that is in production and due out later this year or early next year.”
As the construction industry evolves, WOLFFKRAN is well positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities, and their customers are excited for what’s to come.
When asked where he sees the brand in the future, Gabriel replied “continuing to excel as a top crane choice in the marketplace and continuing to build city skylines.”
Huffman agreed, adding, “I believe their footprint has only growth in its future.”
If the company stays focused on innovation and customer satisfaction, they could easily remain a dominant force in the industry for another 100-plus years.
“WOLFFKRAN sells their name on innovation and is striving to ensure the customer experience is above and beyond any other in the industry,” Bruner concluded.
