The Grove GMK6400-1 will be upgraded to the GMK6450-1 and carry an increased maximum capacity rating of 450 tonnes, which is 50t more than the previous GMK6400-1.
“Over the past two years, we have seen a growing demand for a name change from our global customer base. We reviewed the crane’s performance, which resulted in a new model, the GMK6450-1,” explained Andreas Cremer, Vice President Product and Project Management for Mobile Cranes at Manitowoc.
The addition of the MAXbase™ variable outrigger positioning system on the GMK6400-1 in 2021 allowed customers to further capitalise on the all-terrain crane’s strong performance. This feature allows the use of asymmetrical outrigger setups and results in enhanced load charts. In addition, MAXbase can be used in conjunction with the capacity-increasing MegaWingLift™. The self-rigging attachment can be deployed in less than 20 minutes and does not require an assist crane. MAXbase increases lifting capacity by up to 70% on the main boom and by up to 400% when using the luffing jib. These enhancements led to customer requests to rename the crane.
The Grove GMK6450-1 offers segment-leading lifting capabilities and has been used on projects in place of seven-axle – or even eight-axle – all-terrain cranes. For example, it can lift 8.9 tonnes between 38 metre and 50 metre radii when working with its full boom and jib system length of 136m. When working with 120 m of boom and jib, the crane handles an impressive 12.8 t at distances between 36 m and 52 m. Furthermore, the GMK6450-1 is particularly well suited to wind power projects that require flexible set-up distances to the turbine and the ability to lift heavy loads at steep vertical angles. It can lift in wind speeds of up to 9 m/s with its 79 m luffing jib.
The Grove GMK6450-1 also offers the exciting Grove CONNECT digital platform that provides owners with real-time access to fleet data. Through Grove CONNECT, fleet managers can get instant insights into the crane’s performance with just a couple of taps on a screen. Service technicians are supported with remote, optimised troubleshooting, reducing the frequency of onsite trips and strengthening preventative maintenance programs.
The digital platform enables remote monitoring through an app-based system, providing owners and operators with the ability to view real-time crane information.
The versatile platform advances fleet management, boosts sustainability, streamlines service and maintenance for users and improves connectivity to cranes with the easy-to-use platform working across smartphones, tablets and laptops.