08-22-2025, 06:31 PM
Introduction
Link-Belt Cranes, headquartered in Lexington, Kentucky, stands as a testament to over a century of engineering excellence and innovation in the heavy equipment industry. Established in 1880, the company has evolved from its origins in coal-handling machinery to become a leading manufacturer of mobile cranes, including rough terrain, telescopic, all-terrain, and lattice boom cranes.
Historical Milestones
Over the decades, Link-Belt Cranes has introduced several groundbreaking products:
Link-Belt Cranes has consistently integrated advanced technologies to enhance crane performance and safety:
Link-Belt Cranes actively engages with the community and industry professionals through various events:
Link-Belt Cranes' commitment to innovation, quality, and community engagement has solidified its position as a leader in the heavy equipment industry. With a rich history and a forward-looking approach, the company continues to set benchmarks in crane manufacturing and services.
Link-Belt Cranes, headquartered in Lexington, Kentucky, stands as a testament to over a century of engineering excellence and innovation in the heavy equipment industry. Established in 1880, the company has evolved from its origins in coal-handling machinery to become a leading manufacturer of mobile cranes, including rough terrain, telescopic, all-terrain, and lattice boom cranes.
Historical Milestones
- 1880: Founded in Belle Plaine, Iowa, by William Dana Ewart, the company initially focused on manufacturing detachable link-belt chains for agricultural machinery.
- 1890s: Expanded into coal-handling equipment, developing the first wide-gauge, steam-powered, coal-handling clamshell-bucket crane.
- 1906: Relocated to Chicago, consolidating operations into the Link-Belt Company, and began manufacturing crawler-mounted cranes.
- 1965: Acquired by FMC Corporation, leading to the development of aerial ladder trucks and the establishment of the Link-Belt Speeder Corporation.
- 1980s: Consolidated operations to Lexington, Kentucky, and in 1986, formed a joint venture with Sumitomo Heavy Industries, which later led to full ownership by Sumitomo.
Over the decades, Link-Belt Cranes has introduced several groundbreaking products:
- Hydraulic Cranes: Transitioned from cable-actuated systems to hydraulic mechanisms post-WWII, enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
- All-Terrain Cranes: Developed versatile cranes suitable for both on-road and off-road applications, catering to diverse construction needs.
- Telecopic Cranes: Introduced cranes with extendable booms, offering flexibility in various lifting scenarios.
Link-Belt Cranes has consistently integrated advanced technologies to enhance crane performance and safety:
- Telematics Integration: Incorporation of telematics systems for real-time monitoring and diagnostics.
- Advanced Hydraulics: Development of hydraulic systems that offer improved lifting capacities and fuel efficiency.
- Operator Assistance Systems: Implementation of systems that aid operators in load management and safety compliance.
Link-Belt Cranes actively engages with the community and industry professionals through various events:
- CraneFest: A biennial event showcasing the latest crane models and technologies, attracting industry professionals worldwide.
- Educational Conferences: Hosting events like the Crane Certification Association of America (CCAA) Fall Educational Conference, providing training and networking opportunities for crane professionals.
Link-Belt Cranes' commitment to innovation, quality, and community engagement has solidified its position as a leader in the heavy equipment industry. With a rich history and a forward-looking approach, the company continues to set benchmarks in crane manufacturing and services.
