A Grove RT880E in Qatar has become the first crane in the Middle East to be fitted with Samson’s K-100 synthetic hoist rope, according to Manitowoc, the parent company of the brand.
The rope was fitted at a recent three-day event, which included machine testing and hands-on training for the installation, handling, and inspection of the K-100 product, Manitowoc said in a press announcement. Samson and Manitowoc representatives attended the event, along with employees from Consolidated Contractors Company (CCC), one of the largest construction services companies in the region and the operator of the Grove RT880E.
The synthetic rope, designed specifically for mobile cranes, is the result of a joint development between Samson, a leading synthetic rope manufacturer, and Manitowoc. Made from a combination of high-performance synthetic fibers, K-100 is 80% lighter than wire rope and features torque-neutral construction that eliminates load spin and cabling, Manitowoc said. The new hoist material also makes for easy handling, reeving and installation as it reduces kinking, bird caging and damage from other types of spooling issues. Additionally, because it does not require lubing with heavy grease, it is more environmentally friendly.
Yannick Richaud, director of Manitowoc Cranes, UAE, said the K-100 will be a value-added option for Grove users in the Middle East. “K-100 will generate plenty of interest here in Qatar and the surrounding region. Crane enthusiasts in the Middle East will see the numerous benefits of this innovation. Additionally, customers, especially those in the oil and gas industries, will feel confident investing in a product that has been tested by a reputable and well-known company such as CCC,” he said.
Samson has also enhanced UV protection on K-100 and, together with Manitowoc, has measured the effects of ultraviolet light on the new rope over a period of one year, Richaud added. The results showed that it maintained 90% of new rope strength following UV exposure.
“Samson is very excited about the new opportunities that will be presented to us now that K-100 is available throughout the Middle East,” said Dennis Sherman, technical sales director for EMEA at Samson. “This synthetic rope will have a significant impact on the lifting industry in the region and we feel it is a true game changer for crane customers.”
