Böcker duo in Münster wind turbine challenge

Two Böcker AK 48 truck cranes, one with an access platform attachment, aided the disassembly of a wind turbine weighing approximately 750kg

A pair of Böcker AK 48 truck cranes, one with access platform dismantle the wind turbine. (Image: Böcker).

Working at a height of about 20m at the Münster Waste Management facilities’ depot, the pair dismantled the wind turbine from the chimney of the site’s workshop building. The wind turbine, approximately 4m in diameter, had been installed in 2014.

Roofing company HaGo Dachtechnik from Nottuln carried out the work using its own Böcker AK 48 in crane mode to secure and lift the wind turbine. At the same time, a second AK 48 truck crane from Böcker Rental Services was used in platform configuration. Using the extendable and rotatable PK 600-D access platform, the roofers were able to safely reach the correct working position to loosen the wind turbine’s bolts and connecting parts and prepare for disassembly step-by-step.

The challenge lay in securing the load along with access at height. In windy conditions, the turbine first had to be stabilised before dismantling work could begin. While one truck crane held the component in place, the second AK 48 served as a work platform allowing the specialists to work directly and safely on the structure. The disassembly proceeded quickly, and shortly thereafter, the truck crane safely lifted the wind turbine off the chimney and placed it in the yard for transport.

Long range for heavy loads

The Böcker AK 48 truck crane is designed for heavy payloads of up to 3 tonne and achieves extension lengths of up to 49m, enabling it to handle even unusual and heavy lifting operations.

(Image: Böcker).

Thanks to the EasyLock system, the AK 48 can be converted from a crane to an aerial work platform in just a few simple steps. When combined with the large PK 600-D access platform, it is designed for a payload platform load of up to 600kg, a range of up to 25.1m, and a working height of up to 43.6m. During operation, the basket can be hydraulically extended to a width of 3.5 m and rotated by +/- 220°.

During the operation in Münster, the Böcker platform provided the technicians with a spacious work area and the necessary load capacity to safely transport tools, materials, and personnel directly to the work site.

The AK 48’s quick setup with self-levelling, compact outriggers, and innovative boom geometry were also advantages in the project. The crane can erect its boom at a 90° angle to the vehicle and, depending on the need, operate with the jib extended 180° or in the tower crane function. These capabilities facilitate working close to the facade and far beyond the building, load handling close to the crane, and horizontal telescoping.