Hiab Crane Truck Models and Systems Explained

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Posted Nov 16, 2024

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View of a Crane
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Hiab crane trucks are known for their versatility and reliability, with models ranging from 1 to 50 tons in capacity. They're used in a variety of industries, including construction, manufacturing, and logistics.

The X-HiPro is a popular model that features a 5-axle design, allowing for increased stability and maneuverability. This makes it ideal for tight spaces and heavy loads.

Hiab crane trucks also come equipped with advanced systems, such as the X-HiPro's 5-axle design, which provides a 10-meter outreach radius. This is achieved through a combination of hydraulic and mechanical systems.

The Pro-Xtra system is another key feature, offering a 10-meter outreach radius and a 5-axle design. This system is designed for heavy-duty applications and can handle loads up to 50 tons.

For your interest: Jib Crane Design

What is a Hiab Crane Truck?

A Hiab crane truck is a type of loader crane that's been around for over 80 years, with its roots dating back to 1944 when Hydrauliska Industri Aktiebolaget (Hiab) was founded in Sweden.

Credit: youtube.com, Hiab Crane Semi Automatic Folding Feature

The company's first crane prototype was improved upon in 1947, leading to the launch of the HIAB 190 into mass production. This marked the beginning of Hiab's journey in the lifting sector.

Hiab cranes are known for their distinctive orange colour, which was chosen in 1952. This iconic colour has become synonymous with the brand.

Here are some key milestones in Hiab's history:

  • 1948 - Neighbouring Norway became the first export market
  • 1956 - The first fully hydraulic crane HIAB 170, known as the Elephant, hit new market sales
  • 1960s - The first second boom JIB was introduced
  • 1984 - Black became the new default colour
  • 1992 - Today's backbone control system, SPACE, was launched
  • 2015 - Advanced functions like CTC, SAF, and SAM were introduced
  • 2021 - The improved control system SPACEevo was announced

Features and Functions

Hiab loader cranes are renowned for their industry-leading innovation and durability, making each working day more efficient and productive. Their precision accuracy and safety systems minimize damages to the equipment and reduce risk liability.

The control system of a HIAB truck is a sophisticated set of interfaces that allows the operator to precisely control the crane's movements. It enables the operator to extend, retract, raise, and lower the boom with precision, and also allows for fine adjustments during delicate material handling tasks.

The integration of the boom, hydraulic system, stabilisers, and control system makes HIAB trucks indispensable tools in various industries where efficient and safe material handling is paramount.

Knuckle Boom Features

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HIAB trucks with knuckle boom cranes are renowned for their flexibility and precision in material handling.

Their multiple folding sections allow the boom to articulate, making them ideal for tasks in urban areas with limited space and obstacles.

These trucks can manoeuvre loads with remarkable accuracy, making them a versatile choice for various material handling needs.

The articulating feature of knuckle boom HIAB trucks allows them to reach difficult-to-access locations.

They are commonly used for construction site deliveries, placing heavy equipment on rooftops, and transporting materials over buildings or other structures.

The hydraulically operated telescopic booms of HIAB cranes can extend to considerable lengths when needed, providing optimal flexibility during material handling tasks.

The boom is designed to retract compactly when not in use, minimising the overall footprint of the crane and enhancing the truck's manoeuvrability.

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Loader Cranes Are Our DNA

Loader cranes are at the heart of what HIAB does, and it's no surprise given the company's rich history. HIAB was founded in 1944 by Eric Sundin and Einar Frisk in Hudiksvall, Sweden.

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The first HIAB crane prototype was improved upon, leading to the mass production of the HIAB 190 in 1947. This was a significant milestone for the company.

HIAB's innovative spirit has led to many breakthroughs over the years. The first fully hydraulic crane, the HIAB 170, also known as the Elephant, was launched in 1956. It was a game-changer in the lifting sector.

The company's commitment to innovation has continued to this day. The SPACE control system, which is the backbone of many HIAB cranes, was launched in 1992. This was followed by the introduction of advanced functions like CTC, SAF, and SAM in 2015.

Here's a brief timeline of HIAB's major milestones:

  • 1944 - Hydrauliska Industri Aktiebolaget (Hiab) was founded in Hudiksvall, Sweden
  • 1947 - The HIAB 190 was launched into mass production
  • 1956 - The first fully hydraulic crane HIAB 170 was introduced
  • 1992 - The SPACE control system was launched
  • 2015 - Advanced functions like CTC, SAF, and SAM were introduced

Control System

The control system of a HIAB truck is a sophisticated set of interfaces that allows the operator to precisely control the crane's movements.

HIAB trucks are equipped with a control system that enables the operator to extend, retract, raise, and lower the boom with precision.

Utility workers in protective gear servicing power lines with a truck crane on a rural road.
Credit: pexels.com, Utility workers in protective gear servicing power lines with a truck crane on a rural road.

This control system also empowers the operator to make fine adjustments during delicate material handling tasks, contributing to the overall safety and efficiency of the crane's operation.

The key components of HIAB trucks work in synergy to create a reliable and efficient material handling solution, with the boom providing reach and flexibility, and the hydraulic system generating the necessary power to move heavy loads.

The HiDuo control system with XSDrive remote control brings an unprecedented level of safety to operations without reducing performance, making your business safer and more profitable.

This highly flexible system will give an audible and visual signal at 90% capacity and will stop all radius increasing functions once full capacity has been reached, ensuring safe operations.

With the HiDuo control system, you can manage all electronic functions, including Overload Protection (OLP) and Automatic Duty Control (ADC), for added peace of mind.

HIAB cranes are designed to be tailored to meet the specific demands of your industry, with a wide selection of loader cranes to give you the flexibility to handle the heaviest loads safely and versatility to tackle the most complex tasks.

Safety and Reliability

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Safety and reliability are top priorities when it comes to Hiab crane trucks. Industry leading technology provides world-class safety features that keep operators safe and in control, minimizing risk to individuals or the environment.

Hiab's safety features reduce human-driven errors and unsafe operations, ensuring a safer working environment. Weight capacity and load limits must be strictly adhered to, and stabilizers must be used on uneven surfaces during crane operation.

Some crucial safety considerations include:

Reliability is also a key aspect of Hiab crane trucks. Hiab's premium engineering and cutting-edge operation management features ensure optimum longevity and service life of the equipment. This is backed up by the most comprehensive warranty in the market.

Variable Stability Limit

The Variable Stability Limit system is a game-changer for HIAB trucks. It monitors the truck's stability by registering the extension of stabilizers and monitoring the pressures at each leg to determine the maximum safe capacity of the crane.

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This means operators can lift heavier loads in situations where the legs can't be fully extended, increasing the efficiency of any business.

HIAB's Variable Stability Limit system is available on all Hiab K-HiPro cranes, including the 285, 425, and 505 models.

VSL Plus is available for the 505 model, which compensates for the weight of the load on the truck, offering even greater lifting capacities.

By using VSL, operators can safely lift heavier loads, reducing the need for multiple trips and increasing productivity.

Here are some key benefits of HIAB's Variable Stability Limit system:

Safety

Safety is paramount when operating a HIAB truck. The Variable Stability Limit system (VSL) monitors the truck's stability by registering the extension of stabilizers and monitoring the pressures at each leg to determine the maximum safe capacity of the crane.

HIAB's industry leading technology provides world class, industry leading safety features that keep operators safe and in control, minimizing risk to individuals or the environment. With the smart technology solutions of HIAB's knuckle boom cranes, human driven errors and unsafe operations are reduced.

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To ensure safe operations, operators must strictly adhere to the truck's weight capacity and never exceed load limits to maintain stability and prevent accidents. Different types of cargo require specific securing methods to prevent shifting during transport, ensuring the safety of both the cargo and road users.

Stabilisers are crucial components that provide stability and balance to the HIAB truck during crane operation. They are extendable supports located near the truck's chassis, deployed to create a stable base when the crane is lifting heavy loads.

HIAB trucks are equipped with safety mechanisms to protect operators and transported goods, minimising the risk of accidents and injuries. Some crucial safety considerations include:

  • Weight Capacity and Load Limits: Operators must strictly adhere to the truck's weight capacity and never exceed load limits to maintain stability and prevent accidents.
  • Proper Securing Techniques: Different types of cargo require specific securing methods to prevent shifting during transport, ensuring the safety of both the cargo and road users.
  • Maintaining Stability: Stabilisers must be used on uneven surfaces during crane operation.
  • Safe Working Practices: Operators must follow safe working practices, such as maintaining a safe distance from the load and powerlines to prevent accidents.

Reliability

Hiab equipment is known for its reliability, with premium engineering and cutting-edge operation management features that ensure optimum longevity and service life.

Their industry-leading reliability has earned them a reputation as the go-to choice for many industries. Hiab's commitment to quality is evident in their comprehensive warranty, which covers repair or replacement of components for up to 5 years on main structural components.

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Hiab's warranty is one of the most comprehensive in the market, with a 2-year warranty on the entire product and up to 5 years on structural parts. This gives you peace of mind knowing that your equipment is protected.

Hiab's T-Crane warranty exceeds industry standards, reflecting their confidence in the long-lasting performance of their products. Their equipment is designed to provide many years of reliable service.

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Two Year Warranty

HIAB equipment is built to last, with a promise of quality and longevity that's backed up by a comprehensive warranty. All Hiab equipment comes with a 2-year warranty on the entire product.

This warranty covers repair or replacement of components for 2 years on all components. Certain normal exceptions, such as replacement of consumables, apply.

HIAB loader cranes are designed to be reliable and durable, with a focus on safety and performance. An industry leading two-year warranty for full peace of mind.

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The warranty on structural parts is extended to 5 years on Cranes, giving you added protection and reassurance. There's no better or more comprehensive warranty in our industry.

HIAB's warranty is designed to give you confidence in your equipment, and to provide you with peace of mind. By covering repair or replacement of components for 2 years on all components, and up to 5 years on main structural components, HIAB is committed to ensuring your equipment remains safe and reliable.

Meets International Standards

HIAB trucks have revolutionised material handling in various industries, offering increased efficiency, adaptability, and safety.

Proper HIAB training is imperative for safely and efficiently operating a HIAB truck. Trained operators are better equipped to handle challenging situations, reducing the likelihood of accidents and injuries.

HIAB trucks have been globally certified to meet increasingly higher standards. This commitment to excellence is a testament to the company's dedication to quality and safety.

Credit: youtube.com, Standards for Performance, Safety and Reliability

Our accredited HIAB operator trainers provide excellent courses from industry-renowned accreditors ITSSAR, AITT, and RTITB. These courses cover essential topics such as Pre-use checks, HSE, LOLER, and PUWER regulations.

By investing in the training of HIAB truck operators, companies can ensure compliance with industry regulations, minimise accidents, and optimise productivity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called a HIAB?

The name "HIAB" comes from the Swedish company Hydrauliska Industri AB, which was founded in 1944. It's a nod to the innovative use of hydraulics by Eric Sundin, a ski manufacturer who saw a way to power loader-cranes with a truck's engine.

How much does a HIAB cost?

HIAB hire costs range from $120 to $300 per hour, plus fuel and other fees, depending on the distance and location

What is the difference between a crane and a HIAB?

Mobile cranes are self-propelled and require complex setup, while Hiab cranes are mounted on vehicles and easier to set up. This difference affects their cost and deployment speed.

Lulu Franklin

Writer

Lulu Franklin is a passionate writer, blogger and creative mind who loves to share her ideas with the world. Her articles are always informative, engaging and thought-provoking, covering topics ranging from lifestyle and fashion to health and wellness. With a natural flair for storytelling, Lulu's writing style is both authentic and relatable; she has a talent for making complex issues easy to understand.

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