03.02.2008

MEC Boom could make the ARA

MEC the Californian based scissor and telehandler manufacture has told Vertikal.Net that its first boom lift, the M40T due to be launched at this years Conexpo, might in fact be ready in time for the Rental show at next weeks ARA convention in LAS Vegas.

Steve Citron, MEC’s director of business development said: Our goal was to develop a new 40 ft (12.2 m) platform height boom that would provide a higher level of features, specifications, and performance, while still maintaining an equal or improved level of reliability, all within a price range that would provide a compelling value proposition compared to the industry leading products. It has been a very challenging task, but one that we believe has been achieved.”

The M40T offers 10.9 metres of working outreach and yet it is relatively light as just over 5,000 kgs and has the shortest tailswing on the market at just under 700mm, more than 100mm shorter than the current best tailswing - Haulotte.
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The first MEC M40T is almost complete

MEC says that it plans to offer the M40T with either 227 kg, 340 kg, or 454 kg platform capacity configurations. The boom working envelope for the 227kg and 340kg versions will be unrestricted while the 454kg capacity configuration will utilise an envelope control system to limit the boom’s outreach when the platform is loaded to maximum capacity.

MEC has stayed with field proven components for the drive train, with Ford Gas/LP and Perkins diesel engines as used on competitive models for years. The same applies to the Fairfield torque hubs, Sauer drive motors, and Eaton pumps.

Dual swing out module trays provide easy service and maintenance access to all internal components and a 151 litre fuel tank is standard equipment, providing extended run times between refueling.

A choice of drive options is available - either 4x2 or 4x4 – both of which offer a class beating top speed of 5 mph/8 kph. Gradeability is 35 percent on the 4x2 and 50 percent for the 4x4 which is also equipped with MEC’s full time Quad-Trax positive traction drive system consisting of multiple flow dividers that provide independent and equal power to each wheel.

The company has designed a new active oscillating axle system for the M40T with up to 210 mm of oscillation. The oscillation works with the boom in the raised position, automatically sensing the terrain and adjusting the axle position based on ground conditions.

MEC also claims that its two wheel steering offers a record breaking 1.3 metre inside and 4.4 metre outside turning radius. The symmetrical chassis frame has also been designed to accept steering axles at both ends of the machine to allow the fitment of a four wheel steering system later in the year.
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The rear of the machine showing the oscillatiing axle and compact tail swing

The two stage boom incorporates an externally adjustable slide pad system for and the boom incorporates a welded channel that runs for most of the length of the boom to provide both a protected path for cable and hoses and to create a larger and stiffer cross section.

The standard platform will be 6 ft with an optional 8 ft, both of which include a full 180 degrees of platform rotation. The platform also includes an AC power outlet and a 12-volt DC water resistant marine grade power outlet to provide convenient DC power for charging items such as cell phones and I Pods. The standard tool tray also includes two cup holders.

The platform control panel incorporates two boom function joysticks and one drive joystick, all of which are fully proportional, a configuration usually found on more expensive, larger booms. The hydraulic circuit boasts multiple proportional valves, providing the ability to proportionally actuate up to four boom functions simultaneously.

“For ease of operator training, manufacturing commonality, and interface consistency between our family of booms we felt that it made more sense to provide a standardised triple joystick interface across our entire telescopic range,” says Citron.

In addition to the normal platform power options of air lines, water lines, pressure washer lines and welding cables, MEC has teamed up with Stanley’s hydraulic tool division to offer an optional pair of hydraulic lines. Which will provide hydraulic flow and pressure to power a large selection of Stanley hydraulically actuated tools.

Finally to add a little flair the company will offer a classic West Coast style, “California Chrome” package. “You have to have a little fun along the way”, says Citron, “and besides, regardless of what anyone says, curb appeal is always an important influence in the buying decision making process.”

When it comes to pricing, Jim Tolle, president of MEC Aerial Work Platform Sales said: “We intend to really push the pricing envelope with our new line of booms. if you are looking for an excellent overall value, now is the time to take a serious look at MEC.”

David White, president of MEC’s manufacturing division adds: “We utilised standard industry design practices and proven supplier components to eliminate any durability and reliability risks that could be associated with a new design, while pushing the specification envelope to the next level of engineering refinement. 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.”