Manitowoc launches new MLC165 crawler crane

Manitowoc will debut at bauma 2013 with the new MLC165 lattice-boom crawler crane. The 165 t crane is designed for the global market. Jerry Maloney, global product director for Manitowoc, said the new MLC165's many features make it an extremely versatile crawler crane for both contractors and rental houses. "This self-rigging crane is very easy to assemble and disassemble," he said. "It can install and remove its own counterweights and tracks without the need of a support crane. In addition, it has a 3 m component width and modular assemblies for easy transport over the road. It is loaded with all the latest technology to benefit everyone from owners to the operator."

The MLC165 is easy to maneuver on a job site or among several job sites, making it ideal for general contractors, bridge builders, steel erectors, pile-driving contractors and more. It continues the reputation established by two other highly-successful Manitowoc models, the Manitowoc 555 and the Manitowoc 777.

Steven Dick, technical sales support coordinator for Manitowoc, said the crane's design makes it suitable for a variety of applications.

"Our engineers designed the MLC165 to facilitate general contractor activities like pile driving and moderate clamshell or grapple work," he said. "We like to think of the MLC165 as a versatile tool."

The maximum boom length of the crane is 84 m. It also has an optional fixed jib and luffing jib. The maximum boom and fixed jib length is 93.4 m (69 m main + 24.4 m jib). The maximum boom and luffing jib reach increases to 102.8 m (51 m main + 51.8 m jib). At the bauma show, the MLC165 will be displayed with a luffing jib.

Depending on the market, customers have options with a choice of either a 224 kW Cummins Tier III engine or a more environmentally-friendly 239 kW Cummins Euromot 3B engine. A new open-loop hydraulic system, served by two variable displacement piston pumps, give the 165 t crawler more lifting power than other cranes of its class. Its maximum load moment is 762 tm.