Intermat 2015 world premiere: RUTHMANN STEIGER TB 270+

For the construction equipment industry – aerial work platforms included – Intermat 2015 in Paris, France was by far the most important trade show of the year. RUTHMANN – the well-known German truck-mounted aerial platform manufacturer – also participated in this all-important event and introduced the company’s latest STEIGER® model on a 3.5 t chassis– the one and only TB 270+.

Completely new development primarily because of EURO 6

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The + on the TB 270+ symbolizes a completely redesigned STEIGER® TB 270. The development was essential due to the new EURO 6 emission standards which will become mandatory in many European countries in the autumn of 2015. Because EURO 6 vehicles are much heavier than previous EURO 5 chassis, the overall weight of STEIGER® work platforms had to be reduced. This new model has the same functions and conceptual design as its predecessor which has sold more than 650 times since 2010.

Innovative steel construction reduces weight

The innovative steel fabrication techniques and design RUTHMANN relied upon to achieve its goal included the turret from the successful TBR 220 model (more than 150 units sold) The “space-frame design” used is a combination of reliable multi-bevel (polygonal) technology and proven structural design of the TB series.

The turret has also been strengthened with welded “honeycombs”. Nature shows us how: Though they are very light, beehives are extremely sturdy because of the hexagonal shape of the honeycomb. The findings: 20 % lighter, 20 % higher load torque and 20 % more torsional rigidity. The result: maximum safety and stability at the jobsite.

Even on the completely new telescoping boom system, time-tested multi-bevelled (polygonal) technology was used in the fabrication process. The booms – made of high-strength, high-tech, fine-grained steel and welded with just one seam – provide high buckling strength and torsional rigidity. Despite the reduction in curb weight, the dimensions have actually increased. The power supply is integrated internally within the boom system.

A notable improvement in terms of weight was also achieved through the newly developed hydraulic system which has now been registered for patent approval. Together with the engineers of RUTHMANN’s hydraulic component suppliers, a completely new hydraulic valve control block was developed. It is much lighter and more compact, saving space and reducing weight.

Less weight, better STEIGER performance

Innovative steel construction techniques are also aided by improved overall performance capabilities of the STEIGER work platform itself. Operators have an extra 3 metres of working height at their disposal.

The full 27 m working height is attainable at the maximum 230 kg cage load capacity. With a cage load of 100 kg, the TB 270+ still attains a horizontal outreach of 16.4 m. That is almost two metres more than its predecessor.

The TB 270+ also performs brilliantly BELOW ground.

The new TB 270+ combines the proven performance capabilities of its predecessor (on a 3.5 t chassis) with exciting, new state-of-the-art features.

The work cage

The work cage/basket on the new TB 270+ is an excellent place to work. The cage – with its 230 kg load capacity – is 1.4 m wide and 0.7 m deep. There is room enough for two people plus tools and material.

The innovative interchangeable work cage system is also extremely practical. The aluminium and synthetic work cages can easily be switched within minutes. The double-insulated 1000V synthetic cage is ideal for electricians working on live power lines. Municipalities and energy providers will find the TB 270+ particularly appealing.

There are no stumbling hazards in the work cage. This maximizes safety, efficiency, and stability. The new 2 x 85° electric swivel drive is now protected with a new cover and the pivot point is centred directly under the cage.

The support mechanism has also been optimized

Positioning on sloped surfaces of up to 5° was also possible with the former model. On the TB 270+, innovative mounting of support cylinders, has further reduced weight. Ground contact monitoring – also available on the T 330 and TBR 220 – nicely rounds off the list of features often requested by customers.

Multi-chassis compatibility

The TB 270+ is already EURO 6 compatible and can be mounted on the newest trucks in the 3.5 t (Class B driver’s licence) category. These include the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, VW Crafter, Nissan Cabstar, Renault Maxity, or Iveco Daily. On the Nissan, Renault, and Sprinter, the total vehicle length is just 6.86 m while the height is a mere 2.99 m.

Of course, RUTHMANN’s customers can select chassis with a higher GVW (gross vehicle weight) rating for increased load capacity. The new STEIGER® TB 270+ can also be mounted on all-wheel drive truck chassis.

Successful even before the world premiere

This new model has already sold extremely well. The TB 270+ exhibited at Intermat, will stay in France at the conclusion of the trade show. Kiloutou – one of the largest equipment rental companies in France – has decided to purchase the TB 270+ model on display.