Tasmania’s Billing Cranes recently took delivery of a new Grove GMK4100L-2 100t capacity all terrain. Darren Ling, general manager provides background to the Billing Cranes and the reasons for the purchase.
Billing Cranes is a family business owned by Greg and Leanne Billing. It has been operational since 2015 but operated under the Statewide Cranes name where Greg and Geoff Gibson were partners since 1994. The main office and yard is located at Round Hill, Burnie Tasmania.
Billing Cranes operates a mixed fleet which includes 15t, 20t and 25t capacity Franna’s, 40t, 60t, 160t and 220t capacity Tadanos, 55t, 60t and 250t capacity Liebherrs, two 100t capacity Groves and a 275t capacity Sumitomo crawler.
Darren explains more about the work Billing Cranes conducts.
“We perform general crane hire and specialise in maintenance and construction in the mining industry, windfarm maintenance, general construction including tilt up panels, bridge construction, and we also work in the communication tower install and maintenance space,” he said.
Darren goes on to discuss the process the business went through during the lead up to the purchase of the new Grove GMK4100L-2.
“We have a GMK 4100- 2015 model in the fleet and that has been a great general hire crane due to its four axle configuration and lift capacity. This crane is on a contract on King Island and therefore reduced our capacity between the 60t and 160t cranes range. So, the new Grove GMK4100L-2 is a brand new addition to the fleet,” he said.
With a 100t lifting capacity, 60m of main boom and a reach of 89m with luffing fly, the Grove GMK4100L-2 is a great all rounder.
The Grove GMK4100L-2 combines compact design with superior strength. It offers impressive load charts and compact dimensions with a narrow width of 2.55 m. In the taxi configuration with 6.8 t on board, it offers the best load charts in its class. The remaining counterweight needed to reach full capacity fits on just one standard trailer. The latest EUROMOT 5 engine technology reduces fuel consumption and allows the use of 100% HVO fuel. The new driver’s cab scores with the best comfort and ergonomics for the crane driver.
In December 2020, Manitowoc launched a new driver’s cab on Grove three-axle all-terrain cranes. After the successful introduction of this new generation cab on the GMK3050-3, and GMK3060-2, it is now being added to specific four- and five-axle GMK cranes up to 150 t capacity. The new cab is now available on the GMK4100L-2.
The new carrier cab has a modern design, which meets the latest crash-test requirements. Crane operators benefit from increased space within the cab, while the overall compact dimensions of the all-terrain cranes remain unchanged. Within a 2.55m width, Manitowoc accommodates plenty of features in the interior. Practical compartments in the dashboard, between the seats, and integrated into the vehicle’s doors offer ample space to store loose items and documents – even in DIN A 4 format.
There is further storage space between the driver and passenger seat. The cab interior also incorporates cupholders and USB ports that allow mobile phones and other electronic devices to be charged. An ergonomic driver’s seat with air suspension, armrests, and seat heating come as standard. Operators can easily move between the driver and passenger sides as the central console does not divide the new cab.
Overall, the generous layout of the new operator environment offers a feeling of increased space. “User-friendliness and driver ergonomics were Groves’ priorities in the development of the new generation of Grove carrier cabs, so an understanding of operators’ day-to-day work conditions was essential to the process.
Darren goes on the explain why the business chose the Grove GMK4100L-2.
“The new model has the single engine and longer boom which gives greater flexibility for higher reach work. The crane has been in use nearly every day since we took delivery and has been involved in various works including the recovery of two sunken tug boats in Devonport to completing dump truck tray replacements at a West Coast mine as well as communication tower work all over the state,” he said.
He then goes on to discuss the performance of the Grove GMK4100L-2, the operators opinion of the crane and the relationship Billing Cranes has with Grove.
“Once the operators got accustomed to the newer operating system, they’ve really enjoyed operating the crane and the performance of the crane has been great. Our operators have commented that the new bottom deck cab is more comfortable to drive than the older model,” he said.
“As is the case with most operators, they all have their favourites but most of the operators enjoy the comfort of the Grove.
“In terms of reliability, we have little problem with the Grove’s and the local technical assistance has been great and willing to assist with trouble shooting problems. Grove have been great to deal with, Neil Hollingshead, Sales Director, Mobile Cranes.
Manitowoc Cranes Australia was always in contact when we decided to look for a new crane. From ordering the crane to delivery to Tasmania, took three weeks. We were lucky the crane was in stock and available straight away,” said Darren.
Darren explains how Billing Cranes prepare lift plans.
“We complete lift planning and lift studies for all lifts, either on site by the operations team or in house for larger more complex lifts. We also outsource external engineering lift studies Nick Morris at Conmor Engineering.
“We generally conduct site visits for most lifts, especially for the all terrain cranes and it’s good to have an insight into the job prior to the operator, rigger and dogman going to site.
Billing Cranes have a vastly experienced crew, Greg Billing- Director, has over 40 years in the industry and considered a leader in Tasmania in crane operations.
“We have operators with considerable experience in all types of cranes which is what makes the business more versatile and innovative in its approach to all projects. All the operators and riggers work together to get the safest outcome for each lift,” said Darren.