New HMF knuckle booms

HMF's new series of mid-range loader cranes is a range of models rated between 13 and 24 tonne-metres.

Four new models led the way earlier this year. At the lower end, the HMF 1300 has a maximum lifting capacity of 2.83 tonnes. At full reach, its six hydraulic extensions offer lifts of 340 kg. Topping the series is the 3.75 tonne capacity HMF 1730, which can lift 580 kg at full reach. All the machines have six hydraulic extensions, reaching 17.2 m.

Later this year, HMF will launch the second half of the series, which offers eight hydraulic extensions at 21.7 m full reach. The 3.83 tonne capacity HMF 1800, at the lower end, can lift 280 kg at full extension, compared to the series-topping 5.27 tonne capacity HMF 2400, which can lift 500 kg.

The series is available with a single or dual link-arm system and a wide hexagonal boom, made of ultra-high tensile steel. It provides "great strength both to the side and vertically," said the company. Outriggers can be fixed, manual or hydraulic swing-up.

None of the hydraulic hoses are visible, including the stabiliser hoses, which are fed through the stabiliser beams. In the case of the hydraulically extendable stabiliser beams, the internal hose is routed through nylon drag chains.

The complete unit is just 820 mm wide added the company, "which saves space on the overall platform length between the driver's cab and the platform body."

The new series will complement the rest of HMF's knuckle booms with ratings between 0.5 and 72 tonne metres.