Bluestem Machine Works has introduced the Precision Rigger PR40, the first industrial telescopic handler designed with the needs of riggers in mind.
The idea for the PR40 grew out of the need of riggers who wanted to reach their maximum lifting heights in buildings with low entrance clearances, which was not possible with conventional straight-mast forklifts. With a compact 88-in. lowered height coupled with a 20-ft. true vertical lift and a 40,000-lb. capacity, the PR40 stands out as a versatile machine for the heavy rigging industry.
The PR40 incorporates the proven shooting boom design of a rough-terrain telehandler or hyctraulic truck crane. New developments in nylon materials has lead to “zero-stick-slip” wear pads for use with fine feathering electo-hydraulic systems. Sun counterbalance valves are built into the hydraulic cylinders for maximum safely. Steel hydraulic tubes are welded to the cylinder ports.
Standard forks on the PR40 are 3.5” x 8” and 96” long. Forks are rated for 55,000 lbs. The extra thickness reduces deflection while a 73-in. long taper allows easy entry under a load. A unique tool is included for simplified fork shaft installation. Individual fork positioners have captive fork pockets that won’t drop when the fork shafts are removed.
The jib is used for low-headroom, over-head handling of loads and is rated to the 40,000-lb. capacity. It attaches to the carriage and can be tilted to suit the job. There are nine mounting lugs for 21-ton alloy shackles. The insert extends 36 in. on nylon pads and has front and side lugs for multi-point rigging. The lightweight storage rack has self locking latches for the jib and fork pockets for safe jobsite fork storage.
A 12,000-lb. removable counterweight results in a 25,000-lb. empty weight with a 20,000-lb. capacity (24” load center)
Safety and Performance
For safety, the pressure and position sensors within the hydraulic cylinders allow the electronic control module (ECM) to actively calculate a safe working envelope that cannot be exceeded by the operator. A 6.5-in. color display communicates real-time load weight and capacity, while travel speed automatically decreases as lift height and load increases. Engine error codes are displayed in plain English with trouble-shooting guides. Operator’s manual, load charts, and service documents are stored in the on-board memory.
In the cab, a single joystick allows the operator of the PR40 a true vertical lift, true horizontal reach, or the complete range between the two. Fork leveling is automatic, with a manual override. Fine feathering hydraulics ensure smooth and precise load positioning.
In the hydraulic system. the pump is load-sensing and pressure-compensating with the ability to limit horsepower accordingly. This allows higher pump flows at lower pressure, or conversely, higher pressures without stalling the engine. The control valves are custom manifolds with industry standard cartridge valves to minimize hoses, adapters, leaks, and clutter. All the working elements of the valves are externally mounted on the manifolds, so there should never be the need to remove the entire valve for diagnosis or repair. The PR40 uses a 3 micron return filter and a pressurized reservoir to minimize outside air and moisture from entering the system.
A Continental TME27 industrial engine with a cast iron block and head powers the PR40. The “e Controls” fuel system complements the engine. By generating maximum torque at much lower speeds than the automotive engines, the TME27 allows the PR40 to operate at lower RPM, creating a quieter, safer working environment. A temperature-activated, variable speed cooling fan also minimizes noise while maximizing cooling. There are two engine speed control modes: a foot treadle for travelling, and a dash-mounted control for load handling.
The Sauer hydrostatic drive is controlled by a single comfortable foot treadle for infinitely variable 0-6 mph, forward or reverse. The large hydrostatic pump and deep-reduction planetary wheel hubs generate 20,000 pounds of tractive effort and will propel a 40,000 pound load up a 24% grade. Tapered roller bearings on the wheels and king pins ensure long service life. Spherical ball joints on steer linkages are adjustable to obtain a perfect wheel alignment.
Oversized solid tires are made from soft polyurethane for greater compression, lower ground pressure, and superior traction. Front duals and rear singles roll smoothly over floor transitions under a load.
Lift & Access is part of the Catalyst Communications Network publication family.
