National Crane's NBT40-1 Boom Trucks Now Dual-Rated

Enlarge Image National Crane NBT40-1 Boom Truck

November 15, 2016 - National Crane's NBT40-1 boom truck series is now available as a dual-rated machine. When equipped with an aerial lift package, the three new models—the NBT36-1, the NBT40-1, and the NBT45-1—can perform crane and personnel lifting projects more efficiently with just one machine.

Fully compliant with both ANSI/SAIA A92.2 aerial lift and ASME B30.5 mobile crane industry standards as well as OSHA standards, the NBT40-1 Series will be especially useful for the utility sector, where energy work on de-energized power lines and new transmission infrastructure construction often require the use of a crane and an aerial lift. The tree care, signage and millwright industries, among others, will find these models ideal for their projects. All three cranes feature the option of a two-person, 1,200-lb. maximum capacity, quick-attach yoke platform with wireless radio remote control.

“With these new models, customers will gain the benefits of having both a boom truck and aerial platform in just one package, potentially cutting their need for two or more machines down to one,” said Justin Pilgrim, global product director for boom trucks and carrydeck cranes at Manitowoc. “The dual-rated NBT40-1 Series offers the best of both worlds with straightforward setup, clear steps to reconfigure as an aerial lift, and simpler, smarter operation when in use, thanks to features such as operator feedback of operating height and reach; automated function slowdowns when nearing outer edges of working envelope; wind speed; an emergency lowering system in the event of an engine failure; and many other utility-focused options.” 

The NBT40-1 Series leverages the field-proven NBT40 Series, which features smooth operation and class-leading boom lengths. Models with the 161-ft. boom length offers platform working heights of 169 ft. on main boom and 206 ft. with the jib. The 142-ft. boom offers strong lifting capacities and aerial lift platform height of 150 ft. with the main boom and 205 ft. with the jib extended.

Several utility-focused options are available as well. A hydraulic tool circuit in the aerial platform enables operators to hook up various high-pressure tools without the need for any additional equipment placed in the platform. An available integrated wind speed sensor provides real-time feedback of wind speed conditions to the operator in the cab and at the platform controls. 

Aside from the available dual-rating, there are many updates for the NBT40-1 Series cranes as well. A Graphical Rated Capacity Limiter (RCL) simplifies set up for both the crane and aerial modes, increasing efficiency before the job even begins. Accessibility and setup improvements abound, such as new strengthened aluminum decking, a swing-out cab access ladder and second removable ladder to allow access at several locations around the machine, and lighter polymeric outrigger floats that reduce operator fatigue and prevent theft at the jobsite.

An optimized lift cylinder offers improved strength, lighter weight, high-performance seal design, and integrated pressure transducers for fewer leak points. Auxiliary winch option preparation is also standard for future field retrofit to offer flexibility and future-proofing for the investment, and operator cab air conditioning is now standard.

The NBT40-1 Series replaces the former NBT40 Series that included the NBT36, NBT40 and NBT45. The new series of boom trucks will be available in Q1 2017 and will also be featured at Manitowoc’s booth for ConExpo 2017.