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Introduction to Manitowoc 16000
The Manitowoc 16000 is a high-capacity lattice boom crawler crane designed for heavy construction, industrial projects, and wind farm installations. Manufactured by Manitowoc Cranes, a company founded in 1902 in Wisconsin, this crane line became known for combining durability with advanced hydraulics and modular assembly. The 16000 specifically was introduced to meet demands for versatile heavy-lift operations where the larger 18000 series might be overkill, offering a balance between mobility and lifting capacity.
Crane Specifications and Capabilities
• Maximum lifting capacity: ~160 US tons (145 metric tons)
• Boom length: Standard 180 ft, extendable with lattice extensions
• Crawler width: Adjustable for stability on varied terrains
• Travel speed: ~1.5 mph unloaded, ~0.8 mph loaded
• Hydraulic system: Full-function hydraulic controls for boom, hoist, and swing
• Cab features: Ergonomic design with dual joystick operation, visibility enhancements, and dual-key start for safety
• Weight: Approximately 120,000 lbs (54,430 kg) depending on configuration
The 16000 could be configured with a Lampson paint scheme, which often included distinctive red and white markings. Lampson cranes historically were known for robust construction and modular counterweight designs, allowing them to be adapted for both construction sites and specialized projects like wind turbine assembly.
Operational Context and Field Usage
Operators frequently deployed the 16000 in wind farm construction, such as the Blue Sky Greenfield site in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, where multiple turbines required precise high-lift operations. The crawler base allows operation on uneven or soft terrain, while hydraulic controls permit fine adjustments for heavy loads. Dual-key systems enhance safety by requiring two operators to authorize critical lifts, reducing the risk of human error.
Maintenance and Operator Insights
Maintenance of the 16000 includes regular inspection of crawler tracks, hydraulic hoses, boom pins, and swing mechanisms. Operators reported that familiarity with both Manitowoc and Lampson layouts was helpful, especially when cranes were painted or branded differently but retained standard mechanical layouts. Preventive maintenance, including lubrication of joints and checking hydraulic fluid levels, was crucial to avoid downtime.
Practical Examples and Anecdotes
Experienced crane operators recall moving the 16000 between sites for grain bin installations and wind turbines. In one example, the modular boom allowed crews to assemble the crane in sections, transporting each segment easily and then combining them on-site. Operators appreciated the visibility from the cab and precise joystick control, which allowed careful positioning of heavy components like nacelles and tower sections.
Summary and Recommendations
The Manitowoc 16000 Lampson variant represents a versatile, durable solution for mid-to-heavy lifting projects. Key takeaways include:
• Prioritize understanding modular boom assembly and crawler track adjustments
• Regularly inspect hydraulic systems and pins for wear
• Utilize dual-key start and cab safety features to prevent accidents
• Familiarize operators with both Manitowoc and Lampson control layouts for efficiency
Terminology Note
Lattice boom crane: A crane with a truss-style boom that allows extended reach with reduced weight.
Crawler crane: A crane mounted on tracks, providing stability and mobility on soft or uneven terrain.
Hydraulic controls: Systems using pressurized fluid to move crane components with precision.
Dual-key start: Safety system requiring two operators or keys to engage critical functions.
The Manitowoc 16000 Lampson remains a benchmark in crawler crane versatility, combining field-tested reliability with operator-focused control systems suitable for demanding construction environments.
The Manitowoc 16000 is a high-capacity lattice boom crawler crane designed for heavy construction, industrial projects, and wind farm installations. Manufactured by Manitowoc Cranes, a company founded in 1902 in Wisconsin, this crane line became known for combining durability with advanced hydraulics and modular assembly. The 16000 specifically was introduced to meet demands for versatile heavy-lift operations where the larger 18000 series might be overkill, offering a balance between mobility and lifting capacity.
Crane Specifications and Capabilities
• Maximum lifting capacity: ~160 US tons (145 metric tons)
• Boom length: Standard 180 ft, extendable with lattice extensions
• Crawler width: Adjustable for stability on varied terrains
• Travel speed: ~1.5 mph unloaded, ~0.8 mph loaded
• Hydraulic system: Full-function hydraulic controls for boom, hoist, and swing
• Cab features: Ergonomic design with dual joystick operation, visibility enhancements, and dual-key start for safety
• Weight: Approximately 120,000 lbs (54,430 kg) depending on configuration
The 16000 could be configured with a Lampson paint scheme, which often included distinctive red and white markings. Lampson cranes historically were known for robust construction and modular counterweight designs, allowing them to be adapted for both construction sites and specialized projects like wind turbine assembly.
Operational Context and Field Usage
Operators frequently deployed the 16000 in wind farm construction, such as the Blue Sky Greenfield site in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, where multiple turbines required precise high-lift operations. The crawler base allows operation on uneven or soft terrain, while hydraulic controls permit fine adjustments for heavy loads. Dual-key systems enhance safety by requiring two operators to authorize critical lifts, reducing the risk of human error.
Maintenance and Operator Insights
Maintenance of the 16000 includes regular inspection of crawler tracks, hydraulic hoses, boom pins, and swing mechanisms. Operators reported that familiarity with both Manitowoc and Lampson layouts was helpful, especially when cranes were painted or branded differently but retained standard mechanical layouts. Preventive maintenance, including lubrication of joints and checking hydraulic fluid levels, was crucial to avoid downtime.
Practical Examples and Anecdotes
Experienced crane operators recall moving the 16000 between sites for grain bin installations and wind turbines. In one example, the modular boom allowed crews to assemble the crane in sections, transporting each segment easily and then combining them on-site. Operators appreciated the visibility from the cab and precise joystick control, which allowed careful positioning of heavy components like nacelles and tower sections.
Summary and Recommendations
The Manitowoc 16000 Lampson variant represents a versatile, durable solution for mid-to-heavy lifting projects. Key takeaways include:
• Prioritize understanding modular boom assembly and crawler track adjustments
• Regularly inspect hydraulic systems and pins for wear
• Utilize dual-key start and cab safety features to prevent accidents
• Familiarize operators with both Manitowoc and Lampson control layouts for efficiency
Terminology Note
Lattice boom crane: A crane with a truss-style boom that allows extended reach with reduced weight.
Crawler crane: A crane mounted on tracks, providing stability and mobility on soft or uneven terrain.
Hydraulic controls: Systems using pressurized fluid to move crane components with precision.
Dual-key start: Safety system requiring two operators or keys to engage critical functions.
The Manitowoc 16000 Lampson remains a benchmark in crawler crane versatility, combining field-tested reliability with operator-focused control systems suitable for demanding construction environments.
