Rental Show Round-Up

Enlarge Image Genie shows off its new S-65 Trax boom lift at the show.

February 20, 2008 • The American Rental Association's Rental Show wrapped up last week in Las Vegas, Nev. This year's Rental Show saw the introduction of several new products for the lifting segment. Here's a round-up of the highlights.

 

Genie S-60 and S-65 Trax Booms

A year after Redmond, Wash.-based Genie Industries approved the use of Loegering's QTS track system for its S-60 and S-65 boom lifts for aftermarket use, the company has introduced these models with a permanently fixed four-point track system. According to Phil Harvey, product manager, Genie sold about 100 aftermarket QTS systems but found that the units were too wide for transport without a permit. The S-60 and S-65 Trax telescopic booms are a slimmer version • down from 107 to 102 inches wide • which was achieved by shortening the axle.

Genie's fixed track boom models feature an inside turning radius of 14 feet and an outside turning radius of 21 feet. Each track in the four-point system is made of steel-reinforced rubber and measures 17 inches wide and 47 inches long, with each carriage assembly weighing 1,100 pounds. Ground contact pressure is 9.2 psi for the S-60 and 9.7 psi for the S-65. During travel, each track flexes 23° up and down to accommodate the contour of the landscape. The system also works in conjunction with Genie's active oscillating axle.

 

The tracks on the fixed system cannot be removed to put on a wheel. Aftermarket QTS systems are still an option for the S-60 and S-65 models, as well as the Z-60/34 articulating boom lift.

 

As a side note, Terex Corp. announced in mid-January it is acquiring A.S.V., Inc., parent company of Loegering Mfg., manufacturer of the QTS system.

MEC M40T Boom Lift

MEC Aerial Work Platforms, Selma, Calif., made its entrance into the boom lift market with the unveiling of its M40T boom lift at The Rental Show last week. The new 40-foot MEC M40T telescopic boom lift has more than 34 feet of outreach from the centerline of the turntable. At the other end of the spectrum, the unit's tailswing is only 2'3-3/8”.

 

MEC plans to offer the M40T in 500-, 750-, and 1,000-pound capacity configurations. The working envelope for the 500- and 750-pound models will be unrestricted, while the 1,000-pound capacity configuration will utilize envelope control, limiting the reach of the boom when the platform is loaded to maximum capacity. Platform rotation is a full 180° range of motion.

 

According to Steve Citron, director of business development, MEC's goal was to develop a new 40-foot boom lift that would provide a high level of features, specifications, and performance while maintaining an equal or improved level of reliability within a price range comparable to other industry leading boom lifts. This included utilizing standard industry design practices and suppliers to eliminate any durability and reliability risks associated with a new design. “We also sought to add to the utility of the platform by incorporating standard features and options that are not yet available from other manufacturers,” said David White, president of MEC's manufacturing division.

Enlarge Image Airtrax Cobra scissors

Airtrax Cobra Scissor Lifts

Airtrax, Blackwood, N.J., introduced its omni-directional Cobra scissor lift line, which includes the 19-foot ATX-1933, the 31'9” ATX-3247, and the 33-foot ATX-3368. Touting “unprecedented maneuverability,” Cobra scissor lifts can travel in all directions and can move in tight work areas where turning isn't possible. The heart of the omni-directional system is its patented designed wheels, which operate independently. Each wheel consists of a high-strength steel hub surrounded with multiple specially designed polyurethane-coated rollers, which rotate freely.

 

Powered by a 48-volt AC power system, the Cobra scissor lift line features proportional joystick traction control, an oscillating axle, 110VAC receptacle in the platform, moveable platform console box, and an electronic battery charger. The ATX-1933 features a 30”x72” platform with a 35.5-inch platform extension, 500-pound platform capacity, 2.8 mph drive speed, 40.5-inch outside turning radius, and weighs 500 pounds. Weighing 4,900 pounds, the ATX-3247 has a 44”x98.5” platform with a 50-inch deck extension and a 700-/1,000-pound platform capacity, 2.8 mph drive speed, and 57-inch outside turning radius. The largest model, the ATX-3368, features a 65”x115” platform with a 36-inch deck extension, 1,000-pound platform capacity, 3.8 mph travel speed, 70-inch outside turning radius, and weighs 9,980 pounds.
 

Pop-Up Products

Enlarge Image Pop-Up Products

Europe's innovative scissor lift, the Pop-Up, crossed the Atlantic and arrived in America for The Rental Show last week. Having enjoyed success in the United Kingdom since its launch in 2006 with more than 3,000 orders placed, the Pop-Up was unveiled to the U.S. market at the show. Pop-Up, based in Deeside, North Wales, also launched its innovative Pop-Up Plus+ lift. It encompasses all the features of its sister product but can reach a wider range of applications.

 

Pop-Up replaces the need for ladders and steps used indoors in low-level access environments. Its design, which offers many special features, ensures the user has a safe yet simple solution to low-level access

 

“The volume of sales generated in Europe demonstrates that the market is more than ready for the Pop-Up, and everyone at Pop-Up Products is excited about launching in America,” said Paul Gallacher, sales director of Pop-Up Products. “There is definitely a niche in the market for a scissor lift that offers versatility and easy operation with great maneuverability in low-level access and our products easily slip into that gap.”

Enlarge Image Aichi scissor lifts

 Aichi Skytower Scissor Lifts

Japan-based Aichi Corporation launched its new wheel-type scissor lifts this month at the show. The Skytower models SV2032C and SV2632C are Aichi's first global series and are designed for indoor applications such as installation, painting, wallpapering and maintenance.

The scissor lifts feature AC motor driving and a specially designed inverter to make long duty cycles at the work site and advanced driving performance. Traveling speed is increased 1.5 times com pared to previous model, making for a reduction of travel time on the jobsite. AC motors also make for virtually no maintenance, according to the company.

 

A proportional steering system is available as an option on the scissors. The system offers smooth operation, in response to operator requests. The maximum steering angle, 90 degrees, offers easy turning in a small circle. Batteries are located in a drawer-type battery case to make for easy battery inspection.

 

Model SV2032C has a maximum platform capacity of 800 pounds and a maximum platform height of 20 feet. The model's stowed height is just over 40 inches. Model SV2632C has a maximum platform capacity of 500 pounds and a maximum platform height of 26 feet. Its stowed height is 45.5 inches. A low stowed height allows the operator to easily load tools and materials and reduces fatigue.

 

Bil-Jax PT 10 Push-around Vertical Lift

Enlarge Image Bil-Jax PT 10

Bil-Jax, Archbold, Ohio, launched the 10'1" PT 10 push-around vertical lift at The Rental Show, the first unit in Bil-Jax's Apex Series vertical lifts. Designed for indoor and outdoor use, the battery powered PT 10 is ideal for maintenance and construction applications. Measuring only 30-inches wide, the PT 10 easily passes through standard doorways. With an overall length of 5'5", a stowed height of 6'3", and an overall weight of 880 pounds, the unit also provides for easy transport.

 

The PT 10 features a maximum platform capacity of 500 pounds and intuitive push-button controls on the platform to move the machine up and down.  A 12-volt DC battery powers the unit, and an automatic charger is included. Heavy-duty automatic locking casters keep the machine in place while the machine is in use. Options include outriggers, tilt alarm, and a clip-on-tool tray.

Additionally, Bil-Jax debut its self-propelled X-Boom at the show. Currently, two models are available: the 36XT telescopic X-Boom lift, which features a 36-foot platform height and 32-foot maximum outreach, and the 45XA articulating X-Boom lift, which has a 45-foot platform height and a 27-foot maximum outreach.  Weighing in at 4,900 and 4,580 pounds, respectively, Bil-Jax said its X-Booms are lighter than other cross-over booms lifts, and they can fit through a double-wide door.

 

These machines share several common features with the Summit Series trailer-mounted aerial lifts. From the boom up, the X-Booms are virtually the same as the Summit Series. However, these machines offer four-wheel-drive, can be powered by a gas engine or DC batteries, have an oscillating axle, and can be set up and leveled in less than 30 seconds. Neither X-boom requires a CDL for towing.

 

JLG Compact Telehandler

JLG Industries, McConnellsburg, Pa., showed its model G5-18A super compact telehandler with a 1-cubic-yard bucket at the show. The G5-18A combines operator comfort and maneuverability with lift capacity and reach to create a versatile and powerful compact telehandler. The G5-18A boasts a 5,500-pound maximum lifting capacity and 1,850-pound capacity at the fully extended reach of almost 11 feet • the best capacity in the compact telehandler class, according to the company. The machine comes standard with three operator-selectable steering modes including 4-wheel circle, 4-wheel crab and 2-wheel steering. The 126-inch turning radius makes it a top choice for confined or congested work areas.

 

“We spent a great deal of time talking with construction professionals to ensure the G5-18A compact telehandler was designed for top-of-the-line operator comfort and improved visibility,” said Brian Boeckman, JLG's product parent for North American telehandlers. “We paid close attention to details such as machine specifications and dimensions to make it suitable for confined workspaces and multi-story applications. We also paid close attention to service needs by making the engine area easily accessible.”

 

To learn more about the JLG G5-18A, visit www.jlg.com/supercompact1.

 

Enlarge Image TireSocks

TireSocks

TireSocks, Inc., Centennial, Colo., was a first-time exhibitor at The Rental Show t his year. The company's TireSocks™ products are used to protect finished flooring from scuff marks caused by rubber tires. TireSocks are constructed using heavy-duty fabrics and can be made to fit any size tire. TireSocks are easy to install: Stretch the TireSocks over the top half of each tire, drive the equipment forward slightly and then stretch the remaining half over to complete the installation. The TireSocks don't slip off the tires and they self-center as you drive. Distributors may also have their company logo screen printed on their TireSocks at no additional cost.

 

The company also offers SafetyPads™, which are used to protect the entry point on equipment. They are constructed of thick foam and are covered with heavy-duty fabric featuring OSHA compliant yellow and black caution markings. They are a cost-effective alternative to the typical pipe insulation and caution tape method that is both time consuming and less effective. To install simply place the pad and cover over the cross bar tubing at the entry gate and zip it closed.

AWPT

At The Rental Show, AWPT Inc., Schenectady, N.Y., reported interest continues to grow and has signed on several new members and two new training centers. Existing member companies include manufacturers Aichi, Bil-Jax, Haulotte, JLG, Skyjack, Snorkel, and Fraco. Wachovia Insurance, Aichi USA, Genie Industries, Teupen America, MEC, and Upright have or are in the process of becoming members in North America. Additionally, Niftylift has signed up as a member and training center, and Aerial Work Platform Inspection Inc., Conyers, Ga., is also now a training center.

 

According to Groat, Reachmaster is also now a member company, and President Ebbe Christenson is interested in helping create an expanded training program for outrigger high-reach aerial lifts.