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On a lovely, warm day in Houston, Texas, WOLFFKRAN celebrated its 170th anniversary at its customer day and innovation showcase. The event, held on May 30, drew a huge crowd of industry leaders, partners and enthusiasts excited to witness the latest in crane technology and sustainable power solutions.
Since its inception in 1854, WOLFFKRAN has been almost synonymous with innovation and excellence in the crane industry. From their humble beginnings in a former iron foundry to the groundbreaking introduction of the first quickly assembled tower crane in 1913, the company’s journey has been marked by continuous technological advancements. Over the decades, WOLFFKRAN has set industry standards with innovations like the first trolley jib crane with its own electric carriage, advanced climbing tower systems and state-of-the-art luffing cranes.
The event in Houston showcased their spirit of innovation. Highlights included live demonstrations of the latest technology in load control and on-site hybrid power generation. WOLFFKRAN’s partners, Vita Industrial and E-Power International, were present to demonstrate their cutting-edge solutions.
E-Power International, the first company in America to create sustainable power generators, showcased its groundbreaking hybrid power solutions. Their hybrid power solution, the P-Grid, combines the benefits of a battery pack with the reliability of a conventional generator. Designed to meet diverse needs, this hybrid solution offers incomparable flexibility by controlling power peaks, reducing fuel consumption, and being modular and mobile.
Vita Industrial presented its Vita load navigator, a dynamic approach to lifting and moving loads that promises to revolutionize the industry. This innovative system enhances efficiency and safety, further cementing Vita Industrial’s reputation as a leader in load control technology.
“I think this is the first time we have showcased three types of innovative technology that can work together or independent improving the safety, performance and efficiency of lifting in the industry,” Caleb Rosenberger, global product training manager for Vita Industrial, told Crane Hot Line. “The ‘P-Grid’ system provides a powerful and affordable sustained hybrid power source for your cranes, Vita Load Navigator and other equipment onsite.”
The third type of innovative technology Rosenberger refers to is WOLFFKRAN’s high-speed positioning system (HiSPS), which assists crane operators in controlling load sway, ultimately leading to safer and more efficient lifting.
Rosenberg added, “When you add one, two, or better yet, when you combine all three of these on a jobsite, the potential to maximize your safety and efficiency for your project is unreal!”
Celebration of Partnership and Community
The day was not just about technology, however, it was also a celebration of partnerships and community. Attendees enjoyed a Texas-style crawfish and shrimp boil, providing a perfect opportunity for networking and camaraderie. The event underscored WOLFFKRAN’s commitment to its customers and partners, highlighting the collaborative spirit that has driven the company’s success for 170 years.
“I was very excited to be on site at the WOLFFKRAN customer day and innovation showcase at the headquarters in Houston. It was a great day meeting everyone at the show and seeing the WOLFF tower cranes in action with my Catalyst Communications Network colleague Olga Dubinok,” Catalyst Communications Network CEO, Shae McBride, said.
In the 21st century, WOLFFKRAN’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of crane technology remains unwavering. Notable advancements include the patented dismantlable construction of the WOLFF 355 B, the introduction of the “BIG WOLFF” – WOLFF 1250 B and the innovative WOLFF 166 B with a hydraulic luffing system. These milestones underscore the company’s dedication to innovation and excellence.
WOLFFKRAN’s showcase was a fitting celebration of the company’s remarkable journey. It highlighted not only their legacy of innovation and excellence, but also their forward-thinking approach to sustainable technology and global expansion. If May 30 in Houston was any indication, the future of WOLFFKRAN looks bright.
