A ground-breaking self-erecting crane, the first from the new Potain Hup range, was presented by Manitowoc Cranes at Bauma 2016. Boasting unique and innovative design features, the pioneering Potain Hup 32-27 is the first from the exclusive range. It showcases the significant investment in time and resources, including a period of extensive research and testing that led to the creation of this advanced model, which will replace four existing Potain Igo cranes.
The Hup crane provides superior lifting capacity at tall heights, increasing productivity for owners. Like other Potain self-erecting cranes, the new Hup 32-27 is well-suited to space-restricted jobsites and on these projects the new crane will deliver unprecedented performance. It features an adjustable two-section mast that has a third section contained within the second. This design allows the third mast section to be telescoped out, boosting the working height of the crane to 27 m.
When configured in the “low position”, working height is 21 m, and this setup includes a slight extension of the third mast section which is telescoped out a little as part of the jib erection process. Having the additional mast section integrated into the design, delivers a faster and more convenient setup.
Further versatility is delivered through the jib’s luffing capability with a choice of three raised positions at 10, 20 and 30 degrees, in addition to horizontal. The maximum height under hook attainable by the crane is an impressive 40 m. Several jib configurations are available, that offer horizontal reach of 11, 23 or the 32 m maximum. Shortening or extending the jib is a swift and straightforward operation, with the Hup 32-27 offering greater lifting capacity when working with its shorter jib lengths, or further reach when fully extended.
Operator efficiency is maximized through Manitowoc’s new radio remote control unit. Featuring a large colour screen with easy-to-use navigation delivered via a jog dial, the new remote provides optimized ergonomics. It also delivers unique, simplified, on-screen step-by-step information during crane erection, as part of the new Smart Set Up software. The remote control offers three operating profiles which allow the operator to vary the working speed of the crane to suit the application. The hoist unit includes Potain’s proven High Performance Lifting technology which delivers unparalleled speeds. An integrated diagnostic tool can be used for crane support, while there are maintenance warning indicators for the trolley, hoisting and slewing mechanisms, as well as for lubrication levels.
“We are delighted to introduce the next generation of Potain self-erecting cranes at Bauma 2016, with features that set new standards of excellence for the self-erecting crane sector,” says Jean-Pierre Zaffiro, global product director for Potain self-erecting cranes at Manitowoc. “We’ve made it easier for customers to operate and transport the crane and have also introduced new components that provide users with a more powerful machine. But most importantly these new Hup cranes offer better versatility than ever before. By designing so much power and flexibility into each crane we’re allowing owners to cover a much wider range of jobs with a single machine. And this will allow them to dramatically increase their utilization rates.”
The Hup 32-27 has a maximum capacity of 4 t while it can lift 1 t at its jib end of 32 m. Agility on site was a key consideration for the new range, so the Hup 32-27 has a rear slewing radius of just 2.25 m allowing it to be positioned closer to buildings. There are two footprint options, 4 x 4 m or 3.5 x 4.42 m while the crane’s innovative and dynamic unfolding movement allows it to set up in even the most congested spaces. In addition, an integrated leveling system allows for positioning on slopes up to 8 percent or over height differentials of up to 25 cm.
Because the reeving of the Hup 32-27 is automatically configured to four falls of rope, it’s able to deliver its optimum lift ability as soon as it’s configured on site. And as with setup, transportation has been optimized so the folded configuration of the Hup 32-27 is 4 m tall by 12 m long which also allows it to fit in a single container for swift and cost-effective shipment overseas. The crane functions off 480V three-phase power supplies.
“With the Hup 32-27 it’s really like having four cranes in one and our initial feedback from customers has been extremely positive,” continued Zaffiro. “We have spent over a year testing these cranes to make them a reality and we’re confident this new range really does represent the forefront of self-erecting crane technology.”
The Hup 40-30 will be the second crane in the range after the introduction of the Hup 32-27 at Bauma 2016. The company will formally launch this crane at the end of 2016. Deliveries of the Hup 32-27 will start later in 2016.
