Manitowoc MLC300 Crawler Features a Fixed Position Counterweight
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| Enlarge Image Manitowoc MLC300 crawler crane |
March 14, 2017 - At ConExpo, Manitowoc displayed a new version of the 330-ton MLC300 crawler crane with a fixed position counterweight. The crawler crane has has many of the same features as the original MLC300, but does not feature Variable Position Counterweight (VPC) technology. The VPC trolley and tray have been replaced by a two-position, stationary counterweight tray. The MLC300 with the fixed-position counterweight is ideal for equipment owners that focus on limited duty-cycle applications with lighter loads and more repetitive lifts.
To simplify the MLC300’s design, the VPC system and VPC-MAX preparation package are not included—however, all fixed-position counterweight configured machines can be retrofitted to VPC configuration. In the place of the VPC is a conventional, fixed counterweight system that is configurable to two positions depending on total counterweight selected: a standard lift crane position and a limited duty-cycle position that enables the counterweight to match the rotating bed’s tail swing.
Harley Smith, Manitowoc’s global product director for crawler cranes, said that Manitowoc saw a need for a crawler crane that was in a capacity class above the Manitowoc 2250. “Equipment owners that focus on duty-cycle applications, such as clamshell operation, bulk material handling, or pile driving, for example, didn’t need the features and high-capacity performance associated with VPC technology and preferred to invest in a crane that meets their unique job site requirements," he said. "Combined with a multitude of load hoist options, including free fall, the MLC300 with fixed-position counterweight is a crane that will deliver strong lifting power and line pull while serving a wide variety of jobs.”
The MLC300 with fixed-position counterweight features a 315-ft. boom and has the option of an additional 98-ft. fixed jib. A 315-ft. luffing jib can be added to extend its reach to 492 ft.
The crane has a removable, live-mast shipping module, and its boom inserts are designed to allow luffing jib inserts to ship within them, decreasing shipping costs.
The MLC300 is equipped with Crane Control System (CCS), a standardized operating system across several crane models in different product ranges.
The MLC300 with fixed-position counterweight will be available in the second quarter of 2017.
