Manitowoc launches new mobile technologies for cranes
Crane maker extends mobile app to Potain tower cranes and releases new Bluetooth-enabled pressure test kit
Manitowoc has extended the use of its free diagnostic app to cover its Potain tower cranes that are equipped with the Crane Control System (CCS) and has also released a new wireless pressure transducer test kit to measure and record hydraulic pressures on all crane systems.
The crane giant said in a statement that the diagnostic app, which already supports its other crane brands, such as Grove, Manitowoc and National Crane cranes, has been updated to extend its coverage to the Potain tower cranes as well and enables operators to interpret diagnostic codes generated by on-board control systems and reduce machine downtime.
John Alexander, director of service, training and telematics at Manitowoc, said: “This new functionality is another step in actively improving our digital tools and expanding our offering to provide customers with easy-to-use and valuable tools for a better user experience with our products.”
According to Manitowoc, it was the first manufacturer in the crane industry to release an app of this kind back in 2018. The diagnostic app increases crane uptime by enabling customers to diagnose technical issues without third-party assistance, leading to faster repairs and maintenance.
Manitowoc also said that its new wireless pressure transducer test kit is designed to do away with the use of cumbersome hoses in measuring and recording hydraulic pressures on all crane systems. The kit communicates wirelessly via Bluetooth with a smartphone app and comes with two transducers fitted with Stauff pressure test connectors and two transducers fitted with Parker quick disconnect connectors. Also included in the kit are a #4 and #6 SAE J1453 ORFS adapter and two spare batteries. A data logging option allows users to quickly download and email the data collected.
The wireless pressure transducer test kit can be purchased through Manitowoc’s Crane Care representative, said the company, while the smartphone apps are free to download for both Apple) and Android devices by searching for “Manitowoc Diagnostic Code App”, and “Manitowoc Pressure Transducers” in the respective app stores.
