Manitowoc has modernised one of its most popular cranes over the last two decades with a host of new features from the MLC range, the company has announced.
According to the manufacturer, the Manitowoc 999 lattice-boom crawler crane has been updated and upgraded into the MLC250, including significant updates but retaining the characteristics that have built the 999’s reputation in the infrastructure, refinery, and commercial building end markets.
Key specifications largely remain unchanged, with the new MLC250 using the same boom sections that provide a maximum boom length of 88.4 metres and class-leading load charts.
One key change is the switch to open-loop hydraulics, versus the closed-loop system on the 999. Now, every main function, apart from the swing, is powered by the same two main pumps, reducing parasitic load.
Several major changes have also been made to the carbody so its counterweights now double as part of the upper deck and serve as a more stable walking platform, replacing the 999’s walkways that pivoted over the counterweights.
“The Model 999 has been a firm favorite with contractors in the heavy construction and energy sectors for 20 years, providing enough reach and capacity to tackle virtually any job,” said Brennan Seeliger, Product Manager at Manitowoc Cranes, in a statement.
He added, “Feedback received through our Voice of the Customer new product development process showed that users were still satisfied with its performance, but there were areas that could be enhanced to bring it in line with our newer crawlers. Following a wide range of updates, it seemed only logical to move the 999 into the MLC line-up, which shares many of those same features.”
