A Grove GMK3060 all-terrain crane has taken part in a quarter-mile drag race.
The 60-tonne capacity, three-axle model was the only crane to participate in the event, and completed the race in under 42 seconds.
The crane took part in Wilhelmshaven’s annual Jade Race to mark the unveiling of Manitowoc’s Product Verification Center (PVC), which is designed to support faster response and delivery times for customers.
Commenting on the facility, Klaus Kröppel, Manitowoc’s vice president of sales for Europe and Africa, said: “This new PVC will be a key factor in ensuring unprecedented levels of quality and reliability.”
Andreas Cremer, global product director for Manitowoc’s Grove-branded all-terrain cranes, added: “By separating the prototype testing from the serial production testing, we will save time and improve our speed to market.”
Manitowoc’s PVC includes four test pads, which will allow staff to analyse the overall performance of cranes. An integrated salt-spray chamber will make it easier to analyse the corrosion resistance of components.
The facility also features a series of test benches to analyse slewing rings and driveline components. The benches have been automated for round-the-clock operation to minimise testing times.
Malte Braunschweig, director of Manitowoc’s PVC, said: “The benefit of having this facility, along with the corrosion testing, hydraulic test benches, and other testing equipment at the site, is to guarantee a faster response and delivery to the changing market demands while ensuring greater return on investment for customers.”
The official inauguration of the facility is scheduled to take place next month. Future developments will include a circular route for driving and roadability tests, along with a 15% to 25% inclining hill.
