One of the new and updated mini-cranes that Maeda USA, Houston, Texas, unveiled during the recent ConExpo trade show was the MK1033, a new mini-crane equipped with an articulating knuckleboom. Tony Inman, president of Maeda USA, believes that the MK1033 is the only mini-crane in the market with an articulating boom.
The model was introduced to Europe at Bauma last spring, and was unveiled to the North American lifting market this spring at ConExpo. Inman expects production models to arrive in North America later this year.
The MK1033 combines the compactness and maneuverability of a mini-crane with a knuckleboom crane’s ability to reach over objects and work in complex spaces. Inman says it is particularly good for installing glass, maintaining or renovating factories, working in petrochemical facilities, constructing housing, and many other kinds of tight-quarter work. It can lift a maximum of 2,190 lbs. at a 3’4” radius, and raise that load to a height of 23’11”.
The MK1033’s maximum tip height is 37’5”, and it can lift 1,388 lbs. to that elevation. With the articulating top section of boom positioned horizontally, the machine can lift 573 lbs. to a height of 23’11” at a 15’7” radius. With the boom straight and laid out horizontally, the crane can lift 400 lbs. at a 31’8” radius.
Measuring just 8’11” long, 2’6” wide, and 6’6” high when stowed, the MK1033 can fit through a standard single doorway and into some very tight spaces. It weighs just 4,410 lbs. and has a ground-bearing pressure of just 7.3 psi.
Each of the four outriggers can each be set at seven horizontal angle positions to the crane body, and each outrigger also has two hinge positions and four leg extension positions, for a total of 56 positions per outrigger. In addition, each outrigger leg can be positioned independently of the other three, so the MK1033 can provide the right combination for virtually any complex set-up location.
A Tier 4 diesel engine is standard, and power options include a gasoline engine, an LPG-fueled engine, or a 230V or 380V electric motor. Operation is controlled by a multi-joystick radio remote control box with an advanced monitor display that gives the operator a wealth of information. A tipping-prevention device also comes standard.
Although the standard MK1033 does not come with a winch, one is available as an option. The winch can lift up to 1,800 lbs. or spool enough wire rope to pick loads from as much as 213 ft. below the crawlers.
Source: Lift and Access Magazine
