ConExpo Show Guide 2020

All eyes are on Las Vegas this month as crane booms of every type punctuate the skyline of the world’s largest gambling mecca. Some 2,500 construction-industry-related exhibitors will display equipment that their product development teams have been working on for the last three years.

From March 10-14, Vegas and its vast exhibition grounds and convention center will be teaming with potential buyers of cranes, rigging gear, trailers, specialized components, training and a range of related products and services.

The 2020 show is shaping up well and there is a vibe of excitement among exhibitors and attendees. Following is American Cranes & Transport’s most comprehensive show guide ever. What follows is a roundup of news from manufacturers and service providers, large and small, relevant to our industry. 

Our advice: Make sure your shoes are made for walking and put this magazine in your back pocket, backpack or purse. Do stop by the KHL booth (S-5998) to rest your feet and visit with our ACT team.

Mobile and crawler cranes

Altec

Altec offers telescoping and articulating cranes. Telescopic boom truck cranes are available with sheave heights ranging from 80 to 207 feet and load ratings from 18 to 45 tons. Altec will show two new boom trucks, the AC30-53t and the Altec AC45-127s. In the knuckleboom range there will be the Altec Effer Crane EC685-8s+3S and the Altec Effer EC655.

Broderson

Broderson produces a full line of small capacity cranes and lift equipment. On show will be the company’s new RT-400 rough terrain crane, IC-100 industrial carry deck crane and the IC80-K series carry deck crane.  

Demag

Demag’s 45 metric-ton AC 45 City and 300-metric-ton AC 300-6 will be exhibited among the company’s all terrain line, as well as the 3-meter wide, 14.49-meter long AC 220-5.

Demag said the AC220-5 is the most compact crane in the 220-metric ton class. Its 78-meter boom is touted as the longest main boom of any 5-axle crane on the market. It is designed to remain under a 12-metric-ton axle load limit with a payload of up to 1,322 pounds.

Also displayed will be the improved four-axle, 100-metric ton capacity AC 100-4L. It incorporates new features to increase lifting capacity, especially when working at steep main boom positions.

Demag will show its CC 3800-1 lattice crawler for the first time in North America. Capacity is 715 tons at a radius of 39 feet and its maximum load moment rating is 9,152 metric ton-meters. It can erect wind turbines with a hub height of up to 384 feet without the need for a superlift system.

A Boom Booster capacity enhancement increases the main boom’s stiffness and boosting capacity by up to 30 percent. Boom Booster kit lengths are between 79 and 276 feet. With maximum Boom Booster, the CC 3800-1 can reach a hook height of 571 feet and lift 88 tons.

Jekko

Italian manufacturer Jekko, via North American dealer Fascan, will show its 21.5-metric-ton capacity JF990, which it calls a “real evolution.” Dimensions are 6.75 by 2.14 by 3.45 meters, vertical reach is 41 meters and horizontal outreach is 38 meters. It was designed to be easy to transport and user-friendly.

Also shown will be the flagship model, the SPX532, which lifts three metric tons and reaches 17.3 meters on the full main boom and jib. Other cranes on show are the SPX429, SPX527 and SPX1275.

Liebherr

Liebherr’s USA division celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. Liebherr will have around 30 machines on display. Cranes include the 110-metric-ton capacity LTM 1110-5.1 and the 700-metric-ton LTM 1650-8.1, both of which were introduced in April 2019. The 700-metric ton LTM-1650-8.1 can be configured with 54 and 80-meter main booms.

A brand new Liebherr crane making its debut will be the 120-metric ton capacity LTM 1120-4.1. Liebherr describes it as the most powerful 4-axle mobile crane ever. It features a 66-meter telescopic boom, in seven sections, (six plus the base section), puts it on an equal footing with 200-metric ton cranes, Liebherr said.

An exclusive article in the February 2020 issue of our sister magazine, International Cranes and Specialized Transport, said the crane breaks into the performance class of five-axle ATs. This new unit is undergoing testing, and deliveries will start in the third quarter of 2020.

The LTM 1120-4.1 will replace the 110-metric ton capacity LTM 1100-4.2 introduced in 2009. Capacity of the new crane is 9 metric tons with the 66-meter Telematik boom fully raised so it is good for tower crane erection and dismantling and putting up radio masts. Adding the lattice boom extensions increases hook height to 94 meters. A 64-meter lifting radius is achieved with a 7-meter lattice extension and the 10.8 to 19 meter double folding jib. An option is to have hydraulic adjustment between 0 and 40 degrees. There is also a 2-meter erection jib with a runner which can be swung sideways.

A standard feature is the VarioBase outrigger extension optimization system. VarioBallast, a similar system for the counterweight, is an option. VarioBallast give a ballast radius of 3.83 or 4.77 meters.

A maximum of 31 metric tons of counterweight is available. Shifting it around can give evenly distributed axle loads of 12, 13.5, 15 and 16.5 metric tons per axle. At 12 metric tons per axle, the crane includes hook block and 2.1 metric tons of counterweight. At 16.5 metric tons per axle 20 metric tons of ballast can be carried on board. Power for the crane is from a 330 kW, six-cylinder inline Liebherr diesel engine mounted in the carrier. The engine is designed to meet the requirements of Tier 4 in the U.S.

Strong charts and low cost transport worldwide are the main features of Liebherr’s new 880-ton capacity lattice boom crawler crane, the LR 1800-1.0. It is designed for use with a luffing jib and derrick system. Boom section dimensions are such that three sizes can be inserted one inside the other to reduce transport volume.

Another Liebherr on show, in the 200-metric ton category, is the HS 8200 duty cycle crawler crane, based on its predecessor, the HS 895 HD. Its new drive system design gives a 15 percent increase in drive system efficiency.

Link-Belt Cranes

An all-new 80-ton Link-Belt TCC-800 telescopic crawler crane will make its debut. The all new telescopic crawler crane will begin field-testing early spring 2020, and first shipments scheduled in fourth quarter 2020.  

Development of Link-Belt SmartFly began with its introduction on the HTC-86110 telescopic truck crane in 2015. The early success came from a collaboration between Link-Belt engineering and voice of the customer – developing a streamlined process for fly assembly that can be easily understood by operators, minimizes work at height and stands above countless industry methods. To date, Link-Belt has broadened its SmartFly technology across multiple product lines – from on-highway truck cranes to telescopic crawler cranes, rough terrain cranes and all-terrain cranes.

Among the units on display will be recent additions to Link-Belt’s rough terrain lineup, the 100-ton  100|RT and 120-ton 120|RT, along with the highly successful and market leading 110-ton HTC-86110 telescopic truck crane. Following extensive endurance, road, field-testing and the first shipment delivered in fourth quarter 2019, the 175-ton 175|AT will make its full North American unveiling. Additionally, the 300-ton 348 Series 2 lattice crawler crane will be on display – with several of the first shipments delivering in late 2019 in the southeastern U.S.

Manitex

A highlight from Manitex will be its 2485T tractor-mounted boom truck. It lifts 24 tons has an 85 foot boom. The display of Manitex MAC articulating cranes will feature the MAC 38.5 and MAC 65, plus the MPL74 wallboard delivery system. Manitex Valla will show its V80R and its 25EL electric industrial cranes.

Manitowoc

Manitowoc will unveil six new cranes and show four models for the first time in North America.

The Grove GRT8120 is one of five new Grove models that Manitowoc will show.     The 120 ton rough-terrain crane has a 197 foot boom length and a new carrier design that increases versatility and utilization.  

Other Grove cranes will include the previously released GRT9165 rough-terrain crane, GHC140 telescoping crawler crane, TMS500-2 truck crane and a new, yet-to-be-announced model.

The new GRT8120 features the longest boom and strongest load charts in its class, along with a new compact carrier design with flat decking for improved maneuverability, serviceability and job site access. Based largely off the success of the GRT8100, the GRT8120 has a capacity of 120 tons and a 197 feet main boom with 265-foot maximum height when equipped with the 57.6 foot bi-fold swing away extension that comes in either manual or hydraulically offsettable configurations. Also new to the GRT8120 is the MAXbase asymmetrical outrigger system for ultimate versatility in job site setups. This feature, combined with the lightweight, compact carrier and long boom, make this crane ideal for congested job sites that require maximum reach. A new, wider, full-vision cab with 20-degree tilt maximizes operator comfort and visibility. From an operational perspective, the GRT8120 features the Boom Configurator mode that simplifies telescoping of the boom and provides on-board lift planning.

In early 2019, Manitowoc launched its biggest Grove Hydraulic Crane (GHC) in North America: the GHC140. The GHC140 features a 171 foot six-section, pinned boom with a maximum capacity of 140 tons.  

Manitowoc will also showcase the Grove TMS500-2. The truck crane made its debut at Manitowoc’s 2018 Crane Days event. The 40-ton TMS500-2 features the quick set up and versatile taxi capabilities expected from a truck crane in this class with two boom options: The first ranges from 29 to 95 feet, with three quick-reeve Nylatron sheaves in its main boom nose. The second option ranges from 32 to 102 feet and has four quick-reeve Nylatron sheaves.

Also on show will be the National Crane NBT60L boom truck.

Palfinger

Palfinger will exhibit several of its knuckleboom cranes in Las Vegas. A highlight will be the company’s largest loader crane, the PK 200002L SH. With a 66,140-pound capacity, the crane is equipped with the Paltronic 50, radio remote control and Power Link Plus system.

Palfinger produces a large range of knuckleboom cranes from .8 metric tons capacity to 150 metric tons capacity in its compact, light, medium, heavy and large crane ranges.

Tadano

In the all-terrain range, Tadano will show its 100-metric ton capacity ATF 100-4.1 and the 120-metric ton capacity ATF 120-5.1. Both models use the same 60-meter main boom. The five axle 120 can travel on public roads at just under 10 metric tons per axle – at a total weight of 48 metric tons, which Tadano says is unique in its class.

From its rough terrain crane range Tadano will show two models, the recently upgraded GR-150XL-3 and GR-800XL-4. The GR-150XL-3 has a 78.7-foot boom, a tail swing radius of 4.1 feet and asymmetric outriggers. The 15-ton capacity compact RT has improved single line operation capacity of 7,050 pounds; the longest boom in its class and a 97.4 foot maximum tip height; 360 degree swing cab; new cab; new generation crane control system (AML-E) and added cameras, including rear view and left front.

With a capacity of 80 tons and a boom length of 154.2 feet, the GR-800XL-4 has a gross vehicle weight of 99,800 pounds. It has more capacity than the previous GR-750XL; the longest boom in the 80 ton class and a maximum tip height of 211.3 feet; a new cab design with 20 degree tilt; a new generation crane control system (AML-E2); and three new cameras, including winch camera, right front camera and backup camera.

Tadano Mantis

Tadano Mantis will exhibit the new GTC-1600, a 160-ton telescopic boom crawler that expands the GTC product line to six. It has a 6-section, 42.8-foot to 200.1-foot hydraulic boom. There is a 33.8 foot to 59.1 foot bi-fold jib with offsets at 0, 20 and 40 degrees. Jib length of up to 105 feet is possible with two 23 foot optional lattice inserts, giving a maximum tip height of 305 feet. An optional 11.8 foot heavy lift offset jib is available for tilt-up work.

The company will show two additional cranes, the GTC-900 and GTC-550, which highlight the continued enhancements to the GTC Series – including increased maximum capacities, improved load charts, upgraded carbody jacks, dual certified Euromot Stage V/ US EPA Tier 4F engines and new U.S. ton-based model names for the North American market.

The 90-ton GTC-900 is the largest sub-100 ton tele-boom crawler on the market and features a full power, 5-section boom with maximum extended length of 141 feet 1 inch.

The 55-ton GTC-550 features a 4-section full power boom that allows continuous telescoping with load to the maximum extended length of 113 feet 10 inches. The main boom is complemented with a 28.9 foot to 49.9 foot bi-fold jib. An optional Heavy Configuration Counterweight package (28,200 pounds) provides increased lifting performance at longer radiuses.

Tower cranes

Arcomet

Europe-headquartered international tower crane specialist Arcomet, part of the Uperio Group, will be exhibiting at ConExpo for the first time in its 64-year history. Its primary focus will be its A50 Eco self-erecting tower crane which it builds in Belgium. Arcomet cranes are available in North America from P&J Arcomet. Self-erecting tower cranes offer many advantages over both mobile or truck cranes and conventional tower cranes, Arcomet said.

Comansa

Those visiting the Comansa stand will be able to find out about the LCL310 luffing-jib crane, specifically its 18-metric ton maximum load version, which will be exhibited during the show. Its maximum jib length is 60 meters, and the different configurations allow for maximum jib steps every 5 meters. This luffing-jib crane, with its compact design and reduced out of service radius, is ideal for use in cities or congested building sites.

Comansa will also exhibit the CUBE cab, winner of the prestigious iF prize in 2018 and that comes as standard in most of Comansa’s cranes. It combines a new design, comfort and maximum productivity, as well as innovative advantages in terms of ergonomics and features.

Comansa will also promote the latest versions of its cranes developed over the last year, especially its new 21LC1050 and 21LC1400 models, with maximum load capacities of up to 50 and 66 tonnes respectively, which will improve productivity and enhance options in a market that is focussed on large flat-top tower cranes.

Similarly, the new Quick Set system will be introduced. This is a new technology designed to simplify the commissioning of cranes. With Quick Set, the set-up and calibration times have been significantly reduced using a system that leads to easier, safer and more intuitive adjustments, achieving faster and less labour-intensive calibration. This smart development is the result of experience gained over the years and is readily available across the entire 21LC range and, during 2020, it will be expanded to the 11LC and 16LC ranges.

Jaso

Spanish manufacturer Jaso will show its J265PA luffer. New to the U.S. market, it offers a maximum line speed of 366 meters per minute and can be set freestanding up to 312 feet. Features include a clamp type secondary brake system on luffing, an optional secondary brake on the hoist; a reduced free slewing device and park radius system, slack rope detection and a load levelling system.

Manitowoc Potain

The recently launched Potain MRH 175 will be shown for the first time and the Hup M 28-22 will make its North American debut. Both cranes focus on easier transport and assembly, as well as improved on-site productivity.

The MRH 175 is the latest release in Potain’s line of hydraulic luffing jib cranes, a product line the company has continuously developed since unveiling the MRH 125 a year ago. Maximum capacity for the MRH 175 is 11 tons, while the maximum jib length is 180 feet. Tip capacity is 1.65 tons when working with the full 180 foot jib, or 3 tons if fitted with 164 feet of jib. Maximum line speed is 705 feet per minute when working with the 90HPL25 hoist. The crane’s unique design, with its fixed counter jib and topless structure, facilitates its trademark fast erection and dismantling, as well as making it more compact for transport, needing only four standard containers, Manitowoc said. The elements weigh under 8.5 tons and there is a single counter-jib/jib foot package. The topless design also means less space is needed on sites where multiple cranes overfly the jobsite, and the hydraulic design means no wire rope installation is needed. It also means a smaller assist crane is needed for erection as there is no cathead to assemble.

Potain’s hydraulic luffing design features a shorter counter-jib and out-of-service radius than rope-luffing alternatives.

The MRH 175 delivers an out-of-service radius of only 33.5 feet, regardless of jib length. Freestanding heights of up to 206 feet are available with the 6.5 foot K-mast sections, and the crane is also compatible with 5.2 foot K-mast sections. On the hoisting drum, up to 3,136 feet of rope is available with the 90HPL25 winch, allowing users to choose either 1,568 feet in a two-fall configuration with a 5.5 ton maximum capacity or 784 feet in a four-fall configuration with an 11 tons maximum capacity. Luffing the crane from the horizontal to vertical is efficient, taking less than two minutes, Manitowoc said.

The Hup M 28-22 is being shown with a new transport axle for the regional market and it is the third model from the Hup self-erecting crane range. The double-steering axle gives the model better jobsite accessibility and enables it to travel at speeds of up to 50 mph. It measures 38 feet when folded, making it the most compact crane in its category, the company said. The crane has a 92 foot jib and features 16 configurations. 

Wolff

Wolffkran will show its new Wolff 166 B US luffing jib tower crane. It is designed to meet U.S. electrical standards and all requirements regarding structural components. Instead of a conventional rope and winch luffing gear it has an hydraulic mechanism. This eliminates the classical tower top and reeving of the luffing rope, Wolffkran says. Another benefit is a smaller out of service radius.

Capacity of the 166 B US is 26,460 pounds in two-fall operation and 13,230 pounds in single-fall. Jibs are from 82 to 180 feet and can be extended in 16.4 foot  increments. With a 164-foot jib it achieves a tip load capacity of 7,270 pounds, the company claims. Its 60 kW hoist winch gives a line speed of 377 feet per minute.

 

Trailers and transport systems

Faymonville Cometto

Faymonville and its subsidiary Cometto will show a range of trailers and transport solutions, including the HighwayMAX-2, MultiMAX, DualMAX and a new innovation from its Cometto division.

The steerable 9-axle (3+3+3) HighwayMAX is an ideal trailer for a legal payload up to 170,000 pounds. Faymonville will show the next generation HighwayMAX-2 with an additional 3-axle pin-on nitro-booster to significantly increase the legal payload capacity up to 205,000 pounds. When it is transported empty, the booster can just be uncoupled and loaded onto the main vehicle.

The DualMAX modular dual-lane trailer excels with its capability to be widened under load in various steps from 14 to 20 feet. This patented principle is called “lift & shift” and is used when the trailer width has to be adjusted for infrastructural reasons, such as crossing bridges or when going from state to state with different legislation. Unlike with other brands, the steering system of the DualMAX does not need to be modified during the widening process.  

Faymonville’s Cometto division is a specialist for self-propelled trailers. Cometto will launch the Eco1000, a new product range with integrated Power Pack Unit for in-plant transport jobs up to a payload of 1, 000 metric tons. The whole concept builds on a future-oriented modular principle.

The 4.3 inch display of the newly designed remote control shows all trailer and transport information. And the 12.1 inch color touch-screen display within the Power Pack Unit provides information about lifting, steering and driving modes to the operator. The compact vehicle Eco1000 is available as a 2-axles type with 2 driven suspensions, as a 4-axle type with 2 or 4 driven suspensions, as a 4-axles type with 2 or 4 driven suspensions and a long frame and as a 6-axles type with 4 driven suspensions. Up to four units can be combined together with interchangeable components, different Power Pack technologies and a wide selection of accessories.

Nelson Manufacturing

Nelson Manufacturing will unveil its NextGen boom launch trailer, which includes hydraulic suspension and eight lines of kingpin steering axles. Axle spacing is configured to allow up to 20,000 pounds (9 metric tons) per axle and is legal in California. Nelson said this trailer will eliminate the need for removable stinger axles and front jeeps on larger cranes, greatly reducing launch and trailer set-up time.

The trailer will include Nelson’s “Boots on the Ground,” option allowing the operator to side shift the front trolley and pin to the front of the boom via a wireless remote control. The outrigger levelling legs are also on the remote control to allow the operator to position him or herself as needed. The new NextGen can be configured to handle multiple different crane booms and configurations, and it provides storage space for various boom saddles and adapters to remain on the trailer deck.

Talbert Manufacturing

Talbert Manufacturing will showcase a customized 3+1 configuration of the 60CC/55SA-LD trailer. The show model is designed to be under 53-foot overall length with a 28-foot deck length and tandem axle trailer with provisions for a third and fourth axle capable of a 2, 3, 4 and 3+1 axle configuration set up. Capacity for various configurations are: 55 tons in 10-foot two-point rigid load base with 108-inch swing and four axles close coupled; 55 tons in 13-foot two-point rigid load base with 132-inch swing and 3+1 E1Nitro axle extension; and 60 tons in 13-foot two-point rigid load base with 108-inch swing and four axles close coupled. The base model of the 60CC/55SA-LD features a 108-inch swing radius, 26-foot deck length and 8-foot-6-inch deck width. Additional customization is possible, including a 24-inch flip gooseneck extension that increases swing radius to 132 inches and allows greater load transfer capabilities.  

The 60CC/55SA-LD is manufactured with heavy-duty T-1, 100,000-psi minimum yield steel for extreme durability and longevity. Valspar R-Cure 800 paint is standard on all Talbert trailer to prevent corrosion, offering a long-lasting finish and better return on investment.

XL Specialized

XL Specialized Trailers will feature the XL Low-Profile HDG trailer along with three other new trailers. The XL Low Profile HDG is a 13-foot gooseneck with a swing clearance of 110 inches, and the relief cut out in the gooseneck provides additional space between the truck and trailer. The sloped nose of the gooseneck protects the air and electric connections from damage.

The neck also offers a five-position ride height. Based on neck position and load, the deck can be leveled as needed with the adjustable wheel area ride height. With a capacity of 110,000 pounds in 12 feet, the trailer has an overall length of 53 feet and overall width of 8.5 feet.

With Apitong decking for increased durability, the 26-foot-long main deck features a loaded deck height of 24 inches and an 8-inch ground clearance. The trailer also offers a 14-foot-long rear deck that has a 40-inch loaded deck height.

 

INDUSTRIAL LIFTING

Shuttlelift

Shuttlelift will debut its Shuttlelift DB Series rubber tired gantry crane as well as its new E-Series electric RTG cranes. These cranes eliminate emissions at the point of use while maintaining lifting power.

Enerpac

Enerpac will highlight tools for construction equipment repair with several hands-on displays showing high force tools in action. A bucket maintenance display will demonstrate Mirage line boring machining for pin hole refurbishment, nut cutter tooth replacement and metal straightening using the MS2-1020 maintenance set. A vehicle maintenance display will demonstrate track bolt tightening and loosening using a hydraulic torque wrench and slew-bearing facing with Mirage portable facing machines. Other interactive features in the booth include a cylinder display with high-pressure hydraulic telescoping cylinders, a hydraulic cutter display showing industrial re-bar cutting, a hydraulic pump display featuring new E-Pulse pumps and ZE pump series, lifting display with cube-jack self-cribbing lifting system and puller display with lock-grip pullers and sync-grip pullers.  

LGH

LGH provides hoisting, pulling, jacking and rigging equipment to meet virtually every conceivable lifting or moving need, the company said. Among the products the company will showcase is the Plate Clam, which lifts and turns in one operation, enabling the plate to be taken from the horizontal to a true vertical.

LIFTING TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

A1A Software

A1A Software will demonstrate new integrations between features of is lift planning and fleet management tools, including 3D Lift Plan and iCraneTrax. Integration will allow users of both products to save 3D Lift Plans to iCraneTrax job records. Key features of the integration include the ability to attach 3D Lift Plan to a job record in iCraneTrax; run a crane search in iCraneTrax fleet records, checking for availability against scheduled maintenance or other project allocation; save 3D Lift Plans with job data; and better manage documentation.

Prior to ConExpo, A1A Software will release the iTeleTrax app for iCraneTrax users. This app delivers access to six different information pages right from an Apple or Android mobile device, making it easier for operators, technicians or fleet managers to access critical information while on the go or at the jobsite, the company said. The iTeleTrax app includes a fleet map overview of key service items, engine hour and maintenance notifications, DMI engine codes, fleet position for location tracking and a summary page.

A1A Software also will debut the industry’s first VR Simulator for lift planning. 3D Lift Vision enables users to execute a 3D Lift Plan in VR Mode using a virtual reality headset and controls.

There is no limit to the number of people who can engage in 3D Lift Vision, which allows the entire crane and rigging crew to see and practice a lift in the virtual environment, including the crane operator, riggers, signal person and tagline holders.

Because the simulations are based on 3D Lift Plans, employers can use 3D Lift Vision to evaluate and qualify operators for the crane and application. It’s also a great training tool for operators who need to practice.

3D Lift Vision is an add-on license to 3D Lift Plan subscriptions. Each license comes with one headset. The hardware is compact, portable and wireless, making it easy to deploy anywhere. Communication through the headset allows individuals in different locations to simultaneously engage in the same 3D Lift Vision simulation.

AMCS

Collision avoidance safety systems specialist AMCS Technologies will highlight the DCS 61-S, (Driving Control System Safety) system. The DCS 61-S can detect in real time the risk of collision of all crane elements in interference. It is a complete safety system designed to ensure the safe execution of orders to manage the machines in interference, operating in the area of the tower cranes.

The AMCS Technologies system intervenes on the control mechanisms of the machine to ensure a slowdown and-or complete immobilization of the lifting machine at a pre-set distance from the obstacle. The system provides the crane operator with working comfort by displaying all the parameters useful for operating the machine and allows him to program delivery zones and targets more intuitively. It also gives the possibility of viewing in real time the position of the crane in its environment as well as the ability to see the positions of the interfering cranes while guaranteeing high performance on-site productivity.

The company will preview its own telematics called IoT Lifting with its mobile application which will be available during the second quarter of 2020. The DCS 61-S anti-collision systems can be equipped with a SIM card that can be used to collect precise data on each crane on a web portal, when the crane is powered, in motion, in weathervane, and generate personalized statistics for each jobsite. The main objectives of the IoT Lifting are to follow the productivity of the construction site with precision and remotely and to know the activity of the cranes every day.

The IoT Lifting mobile application (available internationally on Android and Apple Store) will guarantee the productivity and safety of cranes equipped with anti-collision systems DCS 61-S.

Curtiss-Wright

A focus for Curtiss-Wright will be its human-machine interface (HMI) controls, electronic throttle controllers, transmission shifters, sensors and power electronics. A current trend is towards OEMs incorporating electronic HMIs that integrate fully into custom control boxes and armrest assemblies, providing operators with a wide range of new capabilities.

TWG

Crane electronics and monitoring systems specialist TWG supplies OEMs, distributors and end users of cranes. In addition to showing Greer LMI and Greer Vision, TWG will launch Greer Intelligence.

Wika Mobile Control (WMC)

Wika Mobile Control (WMC) will introduce the LWG cable reel series upgraded with the latest mechanical signal transmission and electronics technology. Features include standardised gears and length sensors, optimized electronics, improved length cable connection and a new slip ring design that provides higher current ratings. Also new from WMC will be the gSENS LWG610 length and angle sensor. It is suitable for use on a range of lifting applications, including telehandlers, service trucks, industrial cranes and reach stackers.

WIKA Mobile Control (WMC) provides operator aids, controls, upgrades and sensors including load moment indicators, wireless/wired load, angle and A2B systems for lifting equipment. WMC will present the new gSENS LWG610 length/angle sensor that provides an economical option suitable for use on a variety of lifting applications including telehandlers, service trucks, industrial cranes, and reach stackers. WMC will also launch the cSCALE S9 controller that includes a new NXP processor, 256 MB flash memory, and features improved boot-time and faster flash process via a USB-stick. Also on display is the cSCALE for use in any application from monitoring standard to custom control solutions.  These systems and sensors meet OEM & retrofit requirements in lifting applications.  

Stellar

Stellar will introduce to end-users Stellar Telematics. This new platform consists of Fleet View for fleet managers and E-Link Mobile for operators. With Fleet View, fleet managers can optimize their fleets with real-time and historic data beyond the chassis. Having access to crane usage, load trends, compressor usage and more helps fleet managers make informed decisions like never before. With E-Link Mobile, operators can control equipment and access information for troubleshooting all from their mobile device.

WCS Permits & Pilot Cars

WCS Permits & Pilot Cars has a new feature available in the Permit Portal app. The app has been live on both the App Store and Google Play for almost a year and has positive reviews for its simplicity. Drivers and dispatchers across North America have opted in to receive instant automated text message notifications when oversize permits are approved.

This latest version of the app took it a step further and links all required attachments with state and local permits.

For years, WCS’ online system, The WCS Permit Portal, has allowed customers to place orders, and view and download permits. The addition of this app allows for drivers and dispatches to quickly check the status of a permit.

RIGGING GEAR

Bigfoot

Bigfoot Construction Equipment will show its Custom Composite Ultra Pads which come in stock sizes from 12 to 60 inches diameter and thicknesses of 1 to 4 inches. Custom sizes can be made. Latest products include BigGrip, Slide Pads, Pole Puller plates, stop bar and boot style pads. Custom composite cribbing and wood cribbing is also offered. Pads can be customised with engraved logos, company name, and so on. Custom Composite Ultra Pads carry a lifetime guarantee. In addition to polymer and timber mats, for larger cranes, steel mats are available.

DICA/Axion

DICA outrigger pads and related products on show will include: FiberMax crane pads, SafetyTech outrigger pads, FiberMax outrigger pads, ProStack cribbing blocks, TrainSmart pole barriers and Workforce pole hole covers. The company is set to introduce a range of new products and product improvements.

Another development is that DICA and Axion Structural Innovations plan to co-locate in multiple booth locations throughout the show. Axion’s Struxure Composite Crane Mats and Heavy-Duty Access Mats will be on display. Among the Axion products to be on display are steel-reinforced composite mats, composite laminated mats and composite wedge mats. Using a proprietary structural composite formula, Axion mats are strong, durable and impervious to rot, fungus, insects and moisture. They provide cost-effective, long-term solutions in wet or harsh temperature environments, the company said.

In addition to co-locating at ConExpo, DICA and Axion have agreed to establish a strategic partnership to bring engineered matting products to crane users in the heavy lift market. The companies’ values and products share common benefits for users. Each company uses the highest quality engineered materials that provide benefits over traditional wood products. The companies’ engineered materials produce reliable and consistent performance properties in products that have an extremely long life.

Greenfield Products

The new Greenfield Skycrane offers customers a versatile and efficient cantilever beam operation. All the lifting beam functions are remote controlled. Functions include telescoping jib, counterweight positioning, slew rotation and chain hoist operation. The cantilever beam is also equipped with a capacity booster extension that almost doubles the capacity of the lifting beam. This feature offers a lot of flexibility when working in tight spaces and a shorter beam is needed. The beam rotator eliminates the need of tag lines which will save time between lifts and eliminate the risks of tag lines. The counterweight is removable so the system tare weight can be reduced when handling light loads.

The beam that will be on display is the medium version which, has a maximum capacity of 20,000 pounds at 20-foot offset. Greenfield is also offering a small and large version to complement the product line. The company will also show its boom dollies, ground stabilization products and specialized rigging gear.

Kinshofer

New and recently updated products will be highlighted by Kinshofer. For the truck crane industry will be the KM461 Universal forks for wallboard loader cranes. Capacity is up to 6,000 pounds. The KM605U HPX is a clamshell bucket without HPX drive without exposed and vulnerable hydraulic cylinders.

Rope manufacturer Teufelberger makes ropes from steel wire and synthetic fibre. It says it is the only manufacturer to offer one with a fibre rope-based steel wire rope construction. It is designed to combine the best of both. Following extensive testing beginning in 2016 SoLite was made available on Liebherr tower cranes a year ago in early 2019.

Lube-A-Boom

Lube-A-Boom is a leader in providing specialty lubricants to the lift industry for telescoping boom cranes, aerial lifts, telehandlers, forklifts and a multitude of other types of equipment and applications. The company will show its wide line of products including Lube-A-Shine and Lube-A-Boom Insulator.

Wireco World Group

WireCo World Group will present crane rope from the Casar, Union and Oliveira brands. Products include Turboplast, Eurolift, Doublefit, Flex-X, NR Maxipact, HD8K PPI.

Betalift SP is a new product for extend and retract assemblies on cranes. It uses drawn galvanized wire and offers an improvement of up to 50 percent in fatigue life.

Training and safety

Crane Industry Services

Crane Industry Services will introduce its Leading Safety Works certification program for construction and utilities managers. Developed in partnership with Okos, a business and people strategies consultant, Leading Safety Works is designed to train construction and utilities leaders in the art and discipline of engaging teams in workplace safety. A key feature is practical tools to foster safety and continuous improvement, guide productivity and protect profits.

CICB

With an educational focus on crane safety and lifting operations at ConExpo 2020, Crane Inspection & Certification Bureau (CICB) will be reprising its Preparatory Training for the NCCCO Mobile Crane Exams. It will be held on March 8 and 9. CICB’s training will prepare the attendees to take their OSHA-recognized and ANSI-accredited written and practical exams provided by the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) during the expo on March 10-13.

With onsite testing and instant results, attendees will be given the opportunity, if successful, to walk away from the show NCCCO-certified.

ITI

Founded in 1986, ITI specializes in crane, rigging, lift planning, rigging engineering training and technical services. It is one of the first innovators of virtual reality (VR) training.

Don’t miss ITI’s VR Tower Crane Simulator that is available to aid in all tower crane operator training needs. Developed by ITI and Serious Labs, (and a partnership with Liebherr Cranes), the training tool offers an authentic tower crane operator experience, without the need to be hundreds of feet in the air. The simulator is authentically modeled to replicate running a Liebherr 550-ECH tower crane.