Wire Cranes adds Grove GMK5150XL and GMK5250XL-1 to UK fleet

The two five-axle all-terrains give the company a significant step up in reach and capacity. The 150-tonne GMK5150XL carries a 68.7 m main boom — the longest available on a five-axle 150-tonne crane — while the 250-tonne GMK5250XL-1 tops its class with a 78.5 m boom and a maximum tip height of 109 m with jib and boom extensions fitted.

Straight to work

Both cranes were put to the test immediately after handover. The GMK5150XL made its debut on a precast-concrete construction project, while the GMK5250XL-1 started out at a local industrial plant, supporting an ongoing site expansion — the kind of large-contract work the company bought the crane for.

Wire Cranes specified both machines with the MAXbase variable outrigger positioning system, which allows asymmetric set-ups on confined sites, and with bi-fold swingaway jibs for additional reach.

“We’re a young company, but our standards, investment, and ambition have been clear from day one. Our modern and versatile fleet provides customers with a one-stop solution, and the addition of the GMK5150XL and GMK5250XL-1 is another big step forward. As a business, we believe in investing in the right equipment, people, and support to ensure we deliver for our customers.”

— Andy Unsworth, managing director, Wire Cranes

Four new cranes in six months

The delivery means Wire Cranes has taken four new units in under half a year. Based in Warrington in the north of England, the company works for customers across the UK. The cranes were supplied through Manitowoc’s UK office, with aftermarket support provided from the manufacturer’s service facilities in Buckingham and Barnsley.

That back-up was a deciding factor, according to Unsworth.

“Aftermarket care is very important to us. When you invest in a crane, the equipment is only part of the decision. Uptime, parts, technical help, and our relationship with the manufacturer are all crucial. Manitowoc has supported us at every step, giving us confidence as we grow our fleet of Grove cranes.”

— Andy Unsworth, managing director, Wire Cranes

Grove says the single-engine design of the GMK5250XL-1 cuts diesel consumption by around 30% compared with previous-generation models, while the GMK5150XL’s taxi charts allow it to travel between jobs with much of its counterweight on board.