Link-Belt Cranes has launched a new 200 tonne five axle All Terrain crane, the 225|AT.
The new crane is based on the 185 tonne ATC-3210 launched in 2014 but features a slightly longer six section latched boom - 62 metres compared to 61 metres - and more counterweight, while being as easy to move as its predecessor.
Final paint shop touch up for the new Link-Belt 225|AT
The boom can be extended with a similar 13 to 22 metre bi-fold offsetable swingaway extension to which two 7.6 metre lattice extension sections can be added between the boom nose and the swingaway to provide a maximum tip height of just under 102 metres. We have yet to see the load charts or overall dimensional details so cannot fully compare with the alternative offerings.
The single engine crane incorporates Link-Belt’s Pulse 2.0 operating system, ‘SmartStack’ counterweight detection, and its ‘V-Calc’ Variable Confined Area Lifting Capacities variable outrigger set up and monitoring system, providing virtually unlimited outrigger configurations. Finally, a radio remote controller for rigging is also included.
The unit appears to have plenty of overhang back and front
The maximum counterweight is 36 tonnes, while the main winch has an 8,958kg maximum single line pull with a maximum line speed of 137 metres a minute. Power comes from an EPA compliant Cummins X-15 HVO ready diesel, driving a ZF TraXon transmission, providing a top road speed of 55 mph. This unit also features the company’s full width carrier cab, a far cry from the single cab width offering on the 3210. So how does the new crane compare
Product Manager Andrew Soper said: “We are excited to add the 225|AT to our All Terrain product to our range. I’m personally thrilled for customers to experience this AT platform with its new features, increased capacities, and superior transportability.”
Vertikal Comment
Link-Belt has a strange way of announcing new products, dripping the information out over a week or two. However, from what we can see it compares most closely with Liebherr’s 180 tonne LTM1160-5.2 which has the same boom length and tip height, but a substantially larger maximum counterweight at 54 tonnes and is therefore likely to have higher capacities, although the boom structure will have a part to play in this of course.
The nearest Grove models are the 180 tonne GMK 5180-1 and GMK5200-1, both of which boast 64 metre booms and similar tip heights, with up to 50 and 70 tonnes of counterweight respectively.
Finally, Tadano’s 160 tonne AC 5.160-1 offers a 68 metre main boom, 97 metre maximum tip height and 46 tonnes of counterweight. At the extreme end the Tadano AC 5.220L-1 has a 78 metre main boom, 106 metre maximum tip height and up to 70 tonnes of counterweight.
These are not the only factors of course, ease of transport, load charts at particular reach and overall dimensions are also important. Perhaps when we get the full specs we will take another look. But so far it looks like a bit of a 'catch up' model with some nice features,. While it might not win Liebherr, Grove or Tadano buyers over it will certainly appeal to, and be welcomed by, dedicated Link-Belt fleet owners.
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