Joystick control and a super luffing EJIB: inside Kato’s 51-tonne SR-500LX rough terrain crane
Kato Works launched the SR-500LX, a 51-tonne rough terrain crane for global markets, during the first half of 2019. The machine carries a 42 m five-section boom, a 13.7 m super luffing EJIB and two selectable lifting modes.
Two lifting modes and a jib-less option
The SR-500LX is rated at 51 tonnes at a 2.5 m radius and telescopes its five-section boom from 10.8 m to 42 m, for a maximum boom lifting height of 43.2 m. The super luffing EJIB adds up to 13.7 m from a 9.4 m base with offsets from 5° to 60°, and lifts 4.2 tonnes at a 10.8 m radius. Kato says the EJIB mechanism allows the jib to be deployed safely and efficiently.
Two lifting modes are offered. Mode A is set up for lifting performance and Mode B for stability, giving the operator a choice according to the duty. The crane also publishes no-jib load charts, so it can be worked with the jib removed where the extra reach is not needed and the weight saving is useful.
Cab and control
The cab was reworked for this model. It moves to joystick levers, an LCD cluster meter and a touchscreen COR information display, with a tele-tilt console to ease access into the seat, a suspension seat and an adjustable sunshade.
Kato’s ACS automatic crane system handles the safety side, responding to changes in operating configuration and applying limiting functions. It is presented on a high-intensity colour LCD with illustrated key switches so the operator can identify functions quickly. The COR display covers fuel consumption and operating hours and carries an ECO switch that sets an optimum engine speed for crane work; Auto-Minimum-Control reduces hydraulic pump outlet and fuel burn when the crane is not working.
Dimensions and options
Kato launched the SR-500LX for global markets in the first half of 2019, positioning it between the smaller Roughters and the 70-tonne class at the top of the range. The crane measures 12.76 m long, 2.9 m wide and 3.88 m high, with a slewing radius of 3.9 m. Power comes from a Mitsubishi 6M60-TL.
The option list covers a slewing warning buzzer, anemometer, boom mirror, air heater, fire extinguisher, ash tray, yellow revolving light and electrically retractable heated mirrors — a spread that reflects the range of climates the crane is sold into. Kato markets the SR-500LX worldwide through its distributor network.
Source: Kato — Photos: Kato
Crane facts
- Model: Kato SR-500LX rough terrain crane
- Maximum capacity: 51 t at 2.5 m
- Boom: 5 sections, 10.8–42 m
- Maximum boom lifting height: 43.2 m
- Jib: super luffing EJIB, 9.4–13.7 m, offset 5°–60°
- Maximum jib capacity: 4.2 t at 10.8 m
- Engine: Mitsubishi 6M60-TL
- Dimensions: 12.76 m × 2.9 m × 3.88 m
- Slewing radius: 3.9 m