Pick and carry hits 3,500 in Australia

Terex Cranes has manufactured its 3,500th pick and carry crane at its factory in Brisbane, Australia.

The manufacturer's pick and carry range includes three models with lifting capacities from 15 to 25 tonnes (17 to 28 US tons). The 3,500th model was produced last year, the 25th anniversary of the founding company.

It all began in 1978 with a prototype designed by Dave Francis using truck components. "These early models were truly innovative, combining high speed road travel with superior pick and carry capabilities, which soon lead to the birth of the Australian taxi crane," said Craig Hain, Terex Cranes Brisbane sales manager.

In 1986, the late Brian Hain and Lou Parolin formed Franna Cranes Pty, Ltd. and took on the manufacture of the crane design, helping turn it into the most popular crane type in Australian history with a production of 1,100 units in thirteen years, said Terex.

In 1999, the company was acquired by Terex Cranes, and in the twelve years that followed production more than doubled to 2,400 units, totaling 3,500 since the pick and carry crane was first produced.

"Someone following one of our cranes in a general hire fleet would see it visit many sites in one day, often spending only 15 to 30 minutes to complete its work. It's easy to see why they're so popular," Hain added.

From the earliest 8 tonne (8.8 US ton) capacity units, to today's 25 tonne (27.5 US ton) maximum capacity, the articulated frame of the pick and carry design is a nationwide favourite, said a Terex spokesman. "Without the need for outriggers it has gained a solid reputation for excellent maneuverability and steering flexibility combined with quick set up times and fast road travel speeds to become the most successful crane ever built in Australia."