Manitowoc used its attendance at bauma 2022 to launch its latest rough-terrain crane: the Grove GRT8100-1. This upgrade of the GRT8100 will be available in 2023 and offers a series of improvements over the original GRT8100. Many of the enhancements stem from a new chassis that shares commonality with the chassis from the GRT8120. There's also an updated engine and transmission package, and a new, wider cab with updated operating features.
The 100 tonne (100 USt) capacity GRT8100-1 features the same 360-degree load charts as its predecessor. It also maintains the same overall dimensions, counterweight, and five-section, 12 to 47 metre (39.2 - 154.3 ft) full-power MEGAFORM boom. However, with the new chassis on the GRT8100-1 contractors have the option to integrate the MAXbase variable position outrigger system, which offers up to 15 percent capacity improvements in certain configurations.
MAXbase also greatly simplifies setup on congested job sites, with each of the four hydraulically telescoping outriggers extended over a range of symmetric and asymmetric positions. Also new to the outrigger design is an auto-level feature for easy set-up, as well as Manitowoc's smart, length-sensing outrigger monitoring system (OMS).
The new carrier has a flat, aluminum decking which allows for better rigging and maintenance access. The crane has increased storage with space around the front deck plus a box and headache ball tray to the right-front side. On the left side, below the new cab, there is space to stow cribbing mats, while a compartment just above this includes not only additional storage but also facilitates easy ground access to carrier electrical components.
A wider full-vision cab increases operator comfort with features such as a tilt/telescopic steering column, a wider, heated, electrically adjustable seat, and a three-camera package that increases visibility around the crane. The larger door and wrap-around hand railing and grab bars encourage more secure access. A new LED lighting package includes new installations on each side of the carrier plus dual, front-mounted lights on the 20-degree tiltable cab for a clearer view of the load and fewer blind spots.
New standard features include footrest bars, improved foot pedal spacing, all-weather, moulded floor mat, fold-down shelves behind the seat, a pivoting cup holder, USB charging port, a windshield sun visor, and a windshield washer for the skylight. Manitowoc's Crane Control System (CCS) is now mounted on adjustable arms. Also included within CCS is the on-Crane Service Interface (0CSI) which provides diagnostics and monitoring systems for easier crane maintenance.
The CCS also helps deliver savings in the total cost of ownership on the GRT8100-1, allowing the new six-cylinder, turbocharged and water-cooled Cummins B6.7L engine to operate in ECO mode. Here, the reduced engine speeds that promote improvements in fuel efficiency have been aided by the torque convertor installed with the new Rangeshift transmission.
Repowered to ensure compliance with Euromot Stage 5/Tier 4 Final regulations, the new crane benefits from approximately 10 percent more power, producing 224 kW (300 HP) at 2,500 rpm, while its single-module aftertreatment system with DEF reduces complexity and saves weight.
