CormidiUSA, Norwalk, Conn., has added two brand new versatile machines that can work as articulating work platforms or cranes to its line of compact track-mounted construction machinery.
CormidiUSA recently unveiled the new models, named the KB-19 and KB-22 for their 19-m and 22-m maximum vertical reaches, at The Rental Show in Las Vegas.
Adam R. Testa, vice president of CormidiUSA, said that the two KB models represent an expansion into a new kind of equipment for Cormidi. He added that the new machines have just been released by CormidiUSA’s parent company, Cormidi S.r.l., Roccadaspide, Italy, and that the debut of the KB-19 at The Rental Show was the first public display of a KB-X Performance model.
Both the KB-19 and the KB-22 are built on the same compact, outrigger-supported, rubber-tracked chassis. Power comes from an electronically controlled, gasoline-fueled Honda IXG440 engine that drives five hydraulic pumps. Either model can travel at up to 1.95 mph., climb a 28° grade, and work in winds to 28 mph. Both offer 365° non-continuous turret swing.
Stowed for travel, either model measures 14’8” long, 7’10” high, and 35 in. wide (without the aerial work basket). The KB-19 weighs 6,393 lbs., whereas the KB-22 tips the scales at 6,834 lbs.
When deployed, the four radial stabilizers form a 13’1.5” x 13’1.5” lifting foundation. The onboard computer allows the operator the option of automatically deploying and retracting all four stabilizers with just one button. It can also auto-level the machine with one-half-degree accuracy.
Both models offer aerial platform capacities to 551 lbs., and crane capacities to 2,194 lbs. As an aerial work platform, the KB-19 offers a maximum platform height of 58 ft. and maximum outreach of 26 ft. with 550 lbs. in the basket or 38 ft. with 176 lbs. in the basket. The KB-22 offers the same outreach and capacities, but with a maximum platform height of 66 ft.
Equipped as a crane, the KB-22 offers a maximum working height of 60’8”, and the KB-19 offers a maximum height of 52’6”. Both offer a maximum working radius of 36 ft. The KB-19, can lift 1,100 lbs. to a height of about 52 ft., or 990 lbs. to a height of 39 ft. at a radius of 16 ft. At ground level and a 29’6” radius, it can lift 880 lbs.
Testa explains that one of the machines’ key features is versatility. “First, they are aerial platforms, cranes, and material handlers in one package,” he said. “Removing the personnel basket, transforms the KB-X is into a crane. Without the lifting accessory, a hydraulic power take-off allows connection of hydraulically powered attachments, including demolition breakers, a glazing panel handler, or winch,” he said.
Cormidi says the boom’s three points of articulation let it move almost like a human arm for excellent maneuverability and precise load placement. It can do difficult jobs, such as going over the top of a house to the other side, or reaching 37 ft. horizontally, then rising straight up a wall to a height of 46 ft.
The boom articulation also allows users to work below ground level, such as under bridges.
The operator uses a coded key to choose between aerial work platform, crane, or under bridge modes of operation.
The electronic control system automates operation, adds to safety, and gives the operator a wealth of information about the machine’s performance.
The remote controls continuously show the operator information about the machine—such as the load weight, boom angle, and faults—on a bright LCD screen. The system also analyzes the safety of the machine and uses LED lights to tell the operator what functions can be used.
In addition, the electronics automatically adjust engine power to match the task. That helps optimize speed, smoothness, and safety. At the end of the task, the system returns the engine to idling to save fuel.
Of particular benefit to rental companies, the system can also let the machine talk remotely with its owner and Cormidi. The machine can report its location, its state of use, and any alarms. It can also correct or add software. A “black box” records anomalies and misuse, a benefit for rental companies that need to know the how their equipment is being used.
Lift & Access is part of the Catalyst Communications Network publication family.
