The construction industry now benefits from an innovative, patented machine functionality that has evolved the capabilities of access equipment beyond traditional designs.
What is the Patented Bi-Levelling System? The bi-levelling system allows machines to overcome longitudinal slopes of up to 20°, and lateral slopes of up to 15°, depending on model. This functionality significantly increases performance, safety and comfort by auto-levelling the chassis or aerial structure even in the most extreme conditions.
The innovative technology will overcome many worksite challenges where inclined terrain or multi-level surfaces that would otherwise require additional equipment and operators, accompanying safety measures, time and expenses.
This unique product capability, with simple user experience and superior market adaptability, caters to professional end-users including the construction and crane sectors and ensures a far greater return on investment.
This highly-sought-after technology makes AlmaCrawler machines one of the most productive, safe and reliable in the world. Today the bi-levelling system is installed on all lifts produced by AlmaCrawler including the Multi-Loader 2.5 and 6.0.
Multi-Loader Range
There are three models in the AlmaCrawler Multi-Loader range. The Multi-Loader 2.5 has a capacity of 2.5 tonnes and the largest model, the Multi-Loader 6.0 has a capacity of 6.0 tonnes both feature the bi-levelling technology. The third model, ML3.0FX is a three-tonne capacity loader which runs on a standard crawler track system and will be available in Australia from mid-2022.
AlmaCrawler Multi-Loader carriers maintain a constant horizontal surface even when operating on rough or sloping terrain thanks to bi-levelling technology. The unique and innovative tracking system adopted by AlmaCrawler, allows the carrier to operate on all different types of terrain, ensuring maximum manoeuvrability and precision even in the narrowest of spaces, with minimum ground pressure. Each model is available with full remote control which enhances operability and safety.
“This is a big plus when you think about some of the terrains a crane has to operate in. These are designed as support or assist vehicles, especially for the crane sector. Typically, you will see our Multi-Loaders operating in confined areas which can’t be reached by a crane. This might be because the crane is obstructed from getting to the load by a structure, or because of the distance,” said Bob Mules, general manager for Almac Pacific.
“A tunnelling project is a good example. Cranes are lifting material and equipment in and out of access points all the time. These products are then moved where required. Rather than tie up a valuable asset like a Franna pick and carry crane, the Multi-Loader can transport the product, safely and efficiently to where it is needed”, he said.
The Multi-Loader 2.5 has a capacity of 2.5t. Environmentally friendly and silent, this Multi-Loader provides versatility for both internal and external environments. The Dynamic Levelling System of the load-deck is completely automatic, even on slopes and uneven surfaces. The Multi-Loader can overcome both longitudinal slopes until it reaches 20° (40%) and lateral slopes until 14° (25%) at the same time, always ensuring the absolute integrity and safety of the load being carried.
The Multi-Loader 6.0 is the largest crawler carrier, equipped with the bi-levelling system and radio remote controls, designed to meet the needs of those who carry heavy loads, up to six tonnes. To achieve such a high capacity, the AlmaCrawler design and engineering team has developed the Multi Loading platform, an innovative element that offers the possibility of handling large loads of different types.
The Multi-Loader 6.0 offers the same advantages as the smaller model, with crawler drive system and low ground pressure. It can safely operate on multi-level terrain including steep slopes and offers excellent manoeuvrability in tight spaces.
In order to guarantee use in different environments, the Multi-Loader 6.0 is available in three versions with different types of motor units.
The Multi-Loader ELC is a fully electric model featuring 8 x 180Ah maintenance free batteries, which ensures up to 8 hours of mixed cycle operation, travelling at a maximum speed of 2.6 km/h. Thanks to the high-frequency battery charger installed directly inside the main chassis, it is possible to charge the battery completely in just 5 hours, while a 220V- 2.2Kw auxiliary electric pump allows for the carrier to be used on mains power.
The Multi-Loader EVO is equipped with a high-performance Yanmar 3TNV76 (diesel) – 25HP combustion engine, reaches a maximum speed of 3.7 km/h and is mainly suited for outdoor use.
Multi-loader Bi-Energy features two engines, combustion and electric, and this model offers greater versatility for both indoor and outdoor applications.
The applications for the Multi-Loader are numerous. With a six-tonne capacity there is significant demand for this model in the construction sector. This model is an ideal support vehicle for transporting building material, industrial and civil fixtures, glass panels and generators.
With a continual commitment to innovate and improve products to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving construction sector, the AlmaCrawler design and engineering team has designed optional equipment for the Bi-Energy version of the Multi-Loader 6.0, including the T-Crane Kit.
As the name would suggest, the T-Crane Kit is a small crane fitted to the platform. It has a maximum capacity of 990 kg and a maximum reach of 4.3m incorporating an automatic load management system. When the T-Crane is not required, it can be easily removed from the Multi-Loader platform. The standard version of the T-Crane Kit includes an extension cable transducer, encoder for turret rotation and an inclination sensor for the boom angle.
This model is a powerful and versatile flatbed tracked carrier which can be used in various heavy-duty applications both indoors and outdoors, with a maximum load capacity of three tonnes. It has class leading electric drive with two super quiet AC electric motors, 5.3 kW each [rated IP 67]. The ML 3.0FX can be fitted with both AGM or Lithium batteries, both options inside an easily extractable battery pack that will allow you to change it quickly on the job site and continue your work.
It has telescopic support beams on each corner to provide for added support for extra-large loads. These can be positioned into place manually and therefore extend the platform either longitudinally or laterally. The standard swivel platform sits on a freely rotating slewing ring with 16 different positions which you can also manually choose from and easily adapt the platform to your load.
Finally, the new ML 3.0 FX with its electric drive weighs less than 800kg, features longer tracks and adaptive rollers representing AlmaCrawler’s desire to cater to its materials handling customers and their wide range of needs.