'Lifting Q&A'

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25 April 2008

Manfred K Schlumberger General manager, product support Tadano Faun, Germany

Manfred K Schlumberger General manager, product support Tadano Faun, Germany

How long have you been in the industry? I joined Tadano Faun in August 2000.

What has been the most significant development in your time?

The introduction of electronic rear axle steering systems for mobile cranes has been one of the milestones in mobile crane engineering. It combines maximum mobility with a maximum ease of use. Also, the adoption of electronic tools for malfunction diagnosis has to be considered as an outstanding improvement in the servicing of mobile cranes.

What is your favourite crane?

My personal favourite is the Faun ATF 160G-5.

Is the crane industry safe?

With competitive and innovative products, and a global orientation towards sales and service activity, it has to be considered safe.

What disappoints you most in the industry?

Sometimes feeling that the partnership between manufacturer and customer is becoming more and more one-sided.

Where do you see the industry in 20 years' time?

I think that there will be two conflicting tendencies. On the one hand, further development of electronic devices will increase. On the other hand, a very simple and traditional technology will be adopted by crane manufacturers and users.

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