What are the top stories in cranes and specialized transport in 2022?

In a year dominated by supply chain issues and component shortages, the industry, like many others has been met with several challenges. For manufacturers, however, it has largely remained business as usual as they continue to take part in unique projects and produce new, innovative products.

2022 has also seen several key mergers, acquisitions and appointments. With that in mind, International Cranes and Specialized Transport looks back at the top stories so far this year.

5. Component shortages forces Tadano to halt production

The main factory building at Tadano’s Kozai plant in Japan. Photo: Tadano

In May, crane manufacturer Tadano was forced to temporarily halt production of its cranes at four production facilities due to issues with component shortages.

A number of factors lead to the decision, including a lack of semi conductors, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and supply chain issues due to the pandemic.

Production was suspended between 9 and 13 May and affected the production of rough terrains, truck cranes and all terrains.

4. Mammoet investigation finds no evidence of IP infringement

Following an investigation into whether Huisman had infringed on the intellectual property rights of Mammoet, a Dutch court concluded that there was no evidence to suggest an infringement.

Mammoet had raised concerns over the 3,000 tonne capacity ringer crane range, which the Netherlands-based company claimed potentially violated the intellectual property of its crane design.

Following the ruling, the court ordered Mammoet to rectify its claim.

3. Manitowoc withdraws from ConExpo 2023

In June, USA-headquartered crane manufacturer Manitowoc confirmed that it will not be in attendance at next year’s ConExpo trade show, as it aims to protect its customers from further price increases brought on by inflation.

Aaron Ravenscroft, Manitowoc president and chief executive officer, said that due to its participation in Bauma later this year, the company believe that it’s not “appropriate to invest in a second large trade show at this time.”

In lieu of ConExpo, the company will hold a Crane Days event at its Pennsylvanian site in the future.

2. BMS orders 3,000 tonne crane

How the new 3,000 tonne capacity Huisman Ringer Crane will look in BMS colours at work lifting a turbine tower at the quayside. Photo: Huisman

Crane rental company BMS placed an order for a 3,000 tonne capacity ring crane from Huisman in January. Part of the Huisman Ringer Crane range, the machine can lift components weighing 1,200 tonnes to a height of 225 metres.

According to Husiman, the crane reduces harmful emissions when in use due to its electric drive and improves operational accuracy and energy efficiency to further ensure suitability.

BMS Heavy Cranes also has the option to take a second unit of the crane in the future.

1. Wagenborg takes delivery of Liebherr LTM 1650 8.1 crane

Wagenborg has added a 700 tonne Liebherr crane to its fleet, as it aims to reduce its carbon dioxide and nitrogen emissions as well as modernise the technology it uses.

The new crane is part of a programme to update the fleet with 25 more sustainable, modern models. Photo: Lindhoud Marketing

The delivery, which has been made in Hengelo, Netherlands is part of a sustainability partnership programme with Liebherr and also includes 25 more sustainable, modern models.

A pair of new trailers were also delivered to carry counterweight and jib sections, while Nooteboom Trailers supplied the 7-axle semi-trailers, fitted with an extra-long loading floor.