Sky Climber Launches New Masted Platform

Sky Climber launched a masted version of its suspended access systems that will expand their range of applications.

The new Skymaster product (pictured below at the World of Concrete exhibition in Las Vegas) – which is similar in concept to the Fixeo system launched last year by French manufacturer Fixator – uses lightweight (35 lb (16 kg)) aluminium mast sections to create support masts on either side of the platform from which Sky Climber's existing hoists and platforms can be hung.

The masts will allow Sky Climber's products to be used on buildings and other structures where it is difficult or impossible to fix anchor attachments from which to suspend platforms.

The masts will have a maximum operating height of 200 ft (61 m), with the 6 ft (1.83 m) long mast sections anchored to the building at 20 ft (6 m) intervals. The maximum platform length between the masts will be 36 ft (11 m) and platform load capacity is 2000 lb (920 kg).

George Anasis, Sky Climber's president and chief executive officer, and one of the partners who bought the company 18 months ago, told AI; “We're not looking to replace mast climbers. We're trying to help our customers gain share back from mast climbers. It's another access solution.”

Customers who already own Sky Climber hoists and platforms will only need to buy the mast sections and special connector brackets. The system is likely to be ready by the middle of next year, possibly earlier.

The Skymaster is one of several new products launched by the company. Others include the Phoenix electric traction hoist and a new remote control operating system. The company is also expanding its production facilities in the US and Belgium.

“We're growing worldwide”, said Mr Anasis, “We've doubled our business in 18 months.”