Which BIGMAX Crane is Right for You?
BIGMAX mono-boom TC cranes can be used for a wide range of applications
including: loading/unloading products, precisely placing objects, and assisting
service mechanics. TC cranes (short for 'telescopic, compact cranes') can be mounted
almost anywhere including: flat bed trucks, service bodies, van interiors, trailers and boats.
BIGMAX articulated cranes include the ECO, SPS and STS cranes. The ECO crane has
an extra boom for longer reach when lifting loads up and over a barrier (such as a
fence or wall). SPS cranes are designed to move propane tanks. STS cranes similarly
are designed for OTR tire service. Both have special enclosed booms for durability in rugged off-road conditions.
Click on bars to expand.
Here are two basic steps for designing the right BIGMAX crane for your application.
Step 1: Determine Load and Reach
All cranes are designed and manufactured to lift a specific weight over a specific
distance. To narrow down the range of crane models that could work for you, consider the following:
- What is the weight of the heaviest object you need to lift?
- Over what distance? What is the maximum distance the crane will need to
reach measuring from the centre line of the base of the crane to the load?
Load
Reach
Step 2: Determine the Lift Moment Rating You Require
Each model of crane has a rating based on what is known as the 'lift moment'.
The lift moment defines how much weight a certain crane can lift at a particular
distance. To calculate the lift moment rating you need, multiply the weight of the
heaviest object you need to lift (the "load") by the distance at which the lifting will
be done (the "reach").
For example, if you need to lift a 2,000 lb box and set it down 10 feet from the
centre of the base of the crane, you will need a crane with a 20,000 ft/lbs lift moment rating.
Or, in metric, if you need to lift a box weighing 1.5 tonnes and set it down 2 metres
from the base of the crane, you will need a crane with a 3.0 t/m rating.
Lift Capacity of BIGMAX Cranes
| Model | Lift
Moment | Reach Potential |
| Min. Reach | Max. Reach | Max. Lift |
| TC 100 | 6,710 Ft.Lbs. | 1,890 lbs @ 3'7" | 12' | 505 lbs @ 12' |
| TC 130 | 8,800 Ft.Lbs. | 2,585 lbs @ 3'7" | 12' | 693 lbs @ 12' |
| TC 160 | 10,250 Ft.Lbs. | 2,895 lbs @ 3'7" | 12' | 705 lbs @ 12' |
| TC 200 | 14,430 Ft.Lbs. | 3,505 lbs @ 4'1" | 16'10 | 639 lbs @ 16'10" |
| TC 260 | 17,175 Ft.Lbs. | 4,103 lbs @ 4'2" | 16'10 | 902 lbs @ 16'10" |
| TC 300 | 19,850 Ft.Lbs. | 4,521 lbs @ 4'4" | 17'1 | 1012 lbs @ 17'1" |
| TC 350 | 24,900 Ft.Lbs. | 5,296 lbs @ 4'9" | 23' | 893 lbs @ 23' |
Q What model of truck chassis and body will be used?
You must match the crane to the GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) of your truck.
Standard choices for the body are: (mechanic) service body with tool boxes etc.,
a flat deck for transport of material, or a custom (purpose built) body.
Q What is the total payload that the chassis must carry?
Payload equals GVW minus the curb weight of rigged truck with driver. The use
of high tensile, lightweight steel in BIGMAX cranes maximizes available payload.
Q Will the crane be mounted to the truck frame or attached to the body?
BIGMAX cranes can be frame or body mounted. However, space must be
allowed behind the cab of the truck for frame mounting.
Q Where should the crane be mounted on a flat deck to allow for easy operation?
BIGMAX cranes can be mounted anywhere on a flat deck with the control panel
placed adjacently for easy operation from beside the vehicle. Wireless radio
controls are another option to allow greater flexibility in where the operator is located.
There are two basic options for powering your crane — you can either use a power take-off pump or a truck battery.
Hydraulic (PTO pump): for longer duty cycle, more continuous use
Electric (12 or 24 volt battery): for intermittent use (due to the limitations
of battery and electrical systems).
A safe lift begins with choosing the right crane and outriggers for the job. The main function of outriggers, also known as
'stabilizers', is to keep a truck and crane unit stable while in work mode. This can generally be accomplished with a single
set of outriggers. In some cases, adding a second set of outriggers can create a more stable platform for loading and unloading
materials. This additional support minimizes shifting and leaning creating much less stress on the equipment and the crane operator.
Another important benefit of auxiliary outriggers is the reduced wear and tear
on the crane rotation system due to limited side loading. Studies have pointed
to the additional repair cost and loss of productivity resulting from operating cranes without adequate outriggers.
Click here for more details on the range of BIGMAX outriggers/stabilizers available from Technocrane.
Designing the right crane for your applications means knowing your specific
requirements and the optional equipment you need. Call us for more details on
the range of options available with BIGMAX cranes.
Q. Do you need a winch?
Yes, if the crane is required for frequent vertical lifting or lowering, or if the job
requires lifting long distances such as over the side of a bridge or down the hold of a ship.
Q. Do you require manual or radio controls?
Using radio controls, the operator has increased visibility and can operate the crane remotely.
Q. Are power packs available?
12 or 24 volt DC power packs are available for BIGMAX TC and ECO Series
cranes. These power packs can be easily installed and are a good alternative
when a PTO pump is not available.
Q. What accessories are available?
A variety of accessories are available to meet specific job requirements
including rotators, grabs, and augers.
For further details or assistance with selection and ordering please give us a call at 1-877-531-8644.
i. Reading a Basic Load Diagram