Three Sizes Fit All

One of the key launches of the first day at Bauma was Alimak Hek's long–awaited modular mast climbing and transport hoist system. The system will comprise three different ranges – light, medium and heavy – with three new mast designs that will be compatible with the Alimak hoist range. In addition, “future proof” adapter kits will allow customers to use the new platforms with their existing masts sections.

The three ranges are HEK L–350, M–450 and H–650. The L series will have mast climber capacities from 540 kg to 2960 kg and platform lengths up to 30.1 m, and transport platforms with capacities up to 2000 kg; the M series mast climbers will have capacities up to 4650 kg and transport platforms to 4000 kg; and the largest H line will have mast climbers with “significantly higher” capacities and up to 6000 kg transport platforms.

Alimak Hek said the new system had been designed for lower cost of ownership, higher payload capacities and with masts that can be used for both mast climbing work platforms and transport platforms. The light– and medium–duty ranges will be available this year, while the heaviest range is planned for launch in Spring 2008.

Ernst van Hek, president of the Hek Manufacturing BV division, told Access International that the new l

system was the fruit of three years of discussions with customers, and was sorely needed; “After the merger of Alimak and Hek, we had a portfolio of products that was far too large.”

“We didn't want a work platform, or a goods hoist, or a transport platform”, Mr van Hek said, “We wanted a list of modular components where a customer can choose what he wants to do. The system has a very high degree of modularity.”

An important feature of the modular system is the use of “adapter” drive units that fit onto the standard drive unit and which allow platforms to be connected in a variety of configurations and to incorporate transport platforms.

The system is also “future proof”, said the company, “By installing a special kit, the drive unit can even be mounted on the existing 500 mast (HEK MSM Super) and square 700 mast (HEK MSHF and MS ProMax).”

Mr van Hek said the heavy–duty transport platform, up to 6 t capacity, “can create a new market for heavy lifting. We see that as a trend. There is a demand for it when tower cranes are working at their peak capacity.”

All the elements will come with standard frequency controlled drives; “This is completely new for mast climbers…we're setting a new standard with technology and high degree of modularity”, said Mr van Hek.