The Manitowoc 16000 wind attachment uses existing hardware in a new configuration, and is ideally suited for the erection of wind turbines. Wind turbines have been growing in size in recent years, with larger 2.5MW turbines becoming the norm as operators look to maximise the potential of their wind farms.
The wind attachment fits to any 400t-rated standard Manitowoc 16000. Lifting duties at shorter radii are the most improved, according to Manitowoc, and at 18m the crane has a capacity advantage of 44% compared with a standard Manitowoc 16000. This allows it to install most 2.5MW wind turbines on towers between 80m to 85m in height, Manitowoc said.
In addition, Manitowoc said the attachment is simple for customers to use by not requiring modifications to the crane base.
Kevin Blaney, project leader on the development of the Manitowoc 16000 wind attachment, said: “From an operational standpoint, customers are using the same components and processes they’re familiar with.
“The wind industry has evolved and turbines have become larger. We’ve evolved our product to meet the changing needs of our customers.”
Mike Wood, global product director for Manitowoc’s crawler cranes, said: “Approximately 85% of the Manitowoc 16000 cranes we build are used in wind power work. The cranes are quick and easy to erect and disassemble, and are equally easy to transport.”
