Link-Belt expands crawler presence, will debut 228 at ConExpo 2017

Link-Belt will debut the all-new 130-ton (117.2 mt) 228 HSL at Con Expo 2017, March 7-11, in Las Vegas, Nev. The 228 builds on the legendary success of the job-proven Link-Belt HYLAB lattice boom crawler line-up, and takes another step forward with transportability and attachment versatility. These feature advancements, along with strong capacities, will make this crane the clear choice in its class. 

The 228 HSL was born with transport versatility in mind. It can move under 120,000 lbs. (54 431 kg) as an assembled machine, with tracks on. “There are markets that will appreciate the increased capacity with these transport weight options,” said Link-Belt Product Manager for Lattice and Telescopic Crawler Cranes, Scott Knight. Remove the side frames and easily achieve a transport weight under 80,000 lbs. (36 287 kg). 

Upper

Advertisement

The 228 HSL is powered by a whisper quiet, 270 hp (201 kW) Cummins QSB 6.7L tier 4 final diesel engine. An operator selectable “auto-idle” engine shutdown feature allows for maximum fuel economy during extended idle periods, and engine RPM’s resume immediately when the throttle is activated. The Cummins power plant couples to a direct drive gearbox powering the Kawasaki main pump package. “Link-Belt HYLABs built their reputation on great reliability and durability and these proven components have been integrated again on the 228,” says Knight.

Matching main and auxiliary “power-up and power-down” winches come standard equipped with the selectable free fall system. Main hoist drums are grooved for 26 mm wire rope. These winches provide maximum line pull of 43,198 lbs. (19 600 kg), and feature Link-Belt’s proven wet brake design giving the operator superior control of the load on hook during freefall operation. Link-Belt’s “Eco Winch” is an additional fuel saving feature that when activated allows for maximum line speeds when hoisting light loads at idle engine speeds, resulting in greater fuel efficiency, lower operating cost, less engine RPM’s under load, and fewer emissions.

Hydraulic counterweight removal, upper hand rails, fold-down catwalks, and excellent access are all staples of the HSL Series that have made their way to the 228 HSL.

Operator’s Cab

The crane operator is assisted by on-board high-resolution winch-view, rear-view, and blind-side swing-view cameras to enhance jobsite visibility from within the cab. The operator’s cab is highly functional and comfortable. Inside you will find full LED system monitor, AM/FM digital clock radio, and adjustable armchair-mounted controls. The ergonomic design offers the operator greater visibility, more room, and a six-way adjustable seat.

An audio/visual travel alarm system alerts crew members on the ground. The intuitive RCL monitoring system provides the operator with all lift information, and allows the operator to set swing and other control parameters creating virtual walls with audio, visual alarms and function kick out.

Whether in winter or summer-time operation, high-output air conditioning and heat is standard equipment and makes the 228 HSL a great place to work. 

Attachment

Like many Link-Belt HYLABs, the 228 HSL will offer maximum boom lengths with two different styles of boom: tubular boom, up to 235 ft. (71.6 m) and angle boom, up to 155 ft. (47.2 m).  Link-Belt’s open throat designed top section features quick reeve capabilities and will incorporate a fold-down three-sheave-idler assembly.  “The newly designed idler will allow three working lines to run independently up and down the boom, and make for more gradual radius rope travel over the head sheaves. The idler can be easily stored for transport by rotating down and riding inside the boom,” said Knight. A fixed jib, common to the 218 HSL, with lengths of 30 ft. (9.1 m) to 75 ft. (22.8 m) in 15 ft. (4.5 m) sections is available. 

Lower

The robust lower car body is designed and built to withstand all job site conditions and capacity loadings. Standard features include hydraulically extendable side frames, hydraulic car body jacks, swing out axle extenders, and centralized grease points.  Side frames feature completely sealed under carriage components, hydraulic track tensioning system and self-cleaning full contact track shoes.  The 14 ft. 6 in. (4.4 m) track gauge in the extended position provides a sturdy base for operations.  Two 13,250 lb. (6 010 kg) ‘hook and pin’ style car body counterweights fit neatly between retracted side frames.

Transport

To accommodate varying transport regulations throughout North America, the 228 HSL is equipped with car body jacks and quick disconnects for lower hydraulics for quick and easy installation and removal of side frames when needed. Once on a transport trailer, the 228 HSL has a retracted track width of 11 ft. 11 in. (3.6 m). A 9-piece modular counterweight configuration makes it easy to move the 228 HSL, and depending on geography it can transport with full counterweight in four or five loads. 

Standout features of the 228 HSL:

• Third drum common to 218 HSL for “plug and play”

• 30 ft. (9.1 m) – 75 ft. (22.8 m) fixed jib common to 218 HSL

• 730 ft-lb peak torque @ 1,500 rpm

• 43,198 lbs. (19 600 kg) maximum line pull

• 360.8 ft/min (110 m/min) maximum lines speed at 1st layer

• 536 ft/min (163.4 m/min) maximum line speed at 7th layer

• Programmable swing stop with function kick out

• Telematics in place to give real time data to better forecast maintenance and service needs of the crane.