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Franna AT20 Series 2: Engineering, Features, Stories, and Practical Wisdom
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Introduction: The Pick and Carry Revolution
The Franna AT20 Series 2 typifies Australian mobile crane engineering—delivering high lifting capacity, robust safety systems, and exceptional versatility for construction, mining, manufacturing, and logistics. As a pick-and-carry crane, it’s renowned for its ability to maneuver heavy loads across complex worksites, blending power, finesse, and safety for operators tackling diverse challenges.
Key Features: Power, Control, and Ergonomics
  • Rated Lifting Capacity: 20 tonnes at a 1.4m radius; 1.6 tonnes at a 15.8m radius, making it suitable for everything from large machinery moves to delicate installation jobs.
  • Boom Reach: Maximum hook height of 17m, featuring a four-section boom including a manual fourth extension for extra reach and flexibility.
  • Hydraulic Winch: Two-speed winch with full hook compensation, enabling precise and powerful lifting—full drum line pull reaches up to 4.2 tonnes.
  • Slewing Articulation: Up to 40° each side of centre, for a total of 80° slewing arc, granting maneuverability in tight or obstacle-strewn worksites.
  • Intelligent Load Management: Integrated 3B6 load moment indicator offers both audio and visual overload pre-warning to guard against unsafe lifts.
  • Operator Comfort: Spacious two-person cab, KAB suspension seats, air conditioning, extensive glazing for visibility, centralised greasing system, and intuitive controls all contribute to less fatigue and more precision.
  • Safety Technology: Advanced new features such as the Safety Radar 360° camera system provide all-around visibility, enhancing site safety and operational awareness.
  • Maintenance-Friendly Design: Hinged bonnet and easily accessible compartments ease inspections and repairs; streamlined systems and modular hydraulics reduce downtime.
Technical Terminology Explained
  • Pick-and-Carry Crane: Mobile crane designed to travel with suspended loads across the jobsite—Franna AT20 sets industry standards in this class.
  • Load Moment Indicator (LMI): Onboard sensor system monitoring forces and configuration, warning operator of impending instability.
  • Articulation: The steering axis allowing tight turns and agile navigation in crowded or restricted areas.
  • Full Hook Compensation: Ensures that boom movement translates efficiently into stable lifting regardless of extension position.
Core Specifications: Performance and Dimensions
  • Engine: Mercedes Benz 6-cylinder turbocharged diesel, 205kW
  • Transmission: Allison 6-speed automatic, optimizing power delivery for lifting and road travel.
  • Axle Loading: Front axle 8,000kg, rear axle 11,500kg
  • Overall Dimensions: Length 9.67m, width 2.5m, height 3.07m
  • Wheelbase: 4.45m
  • Travel Speed: Up to 85km/h for rapid site relocation
  • Hydraulic Pump: Load-sensing axial piston, max flow rate 126L/min, operating pressure 250Bar.
Real-World Application Stories
  • Construction firms recount quick, efficient concrete panel picks—articulation allowed safe work close to active sites.
  • Mining operators leverage high travel speed and control for material movement over long, uneven hauls.
  • Machinery installation technicians praise the boom head’s clearance for complex placements among dense production lines.
  • A dramatic incident shared by safety trainers: after a minor collision, thanks to the 360° camera and ergonomic seat design, the operator sustained only minor injuries—a testament to upgraded safety systems.
Practical Solutions, Tips, and Maintenance Recommendations
  • Always conduct comprehensive pre-operational checks: tire integrity, hydraulic line inspection, grease pivotal joints, and test all safety sensors prior to lifts.youtube
  • Operators should be certified and familiar with local and national standards—Australian regulations require regular skill refreshers and documented maintenance.
  • Document usage logs—track boom extension, loads, and articulation; this aids predictive maintenance and safety audits.
  • Clean, inspect, and lubricate articulation and boom joints often to minimize wear and prevent wobble during travel.
  • For unexpected shutdowns or warning lights, refer first to LMI alerts and sensor diagnostics before proceeding; persistent faults may require professional attention.
  • Train teams on proper load distribution and cautious travel speeds when carrying heavy or high CG loads over uneven ground.
  • Always verify hook block and sling ratings to prevent overloading; use manufacturer charts for complex lifts.
  • Employ the exhaust brake during steep descents for controlled stopping and minimized wear on service brakes.
Glossary of Common Terms
  • Boom Angle Indicator: Gauge showing the boom’s angle for accurate configuration and safe lifting.
  • Park Brake Attachment: Allows secure tire anchoring while stationary and hoisting.
  • Machinery Hook: Purpose-designed attachment for complex placement tasks.
Additional Recommendations and Upgrades
  • Install on-board GPS fleet monitoring to support logistics, maintenance, and security.
  • Consider pneumatic tire upgrades for offroad traction at remote sites.
  • Periodically update cab electronics and camera systems for the latest safety enhancements.
  • Consult dealer or manufacturer for advanced accessories—custom fly jibs, spreader bars, or radio controls for specialized applications.
Conclusion: Mastery, Safety, and Lasting Performance
The Franna AT20 Series 2 is more than a mobile crane; it is a symbol of modern lifting technology, blending raw capacity with fine control, resilient structure, and operator-first engineering. Its history and stories on tough job sites underline that expertise, regular maintenance, safety culture, and respect for high-precision machinery are what deliver trouble-free years of service. Whether you’re building Australia’s skyline or moving vital machinery, this pick-and-carry legend keeps industry moving—efficiently, safely, and with confidence.
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