Terex Cranes has updated the Demag AC 500-8, bringing the all-terrain crane to Tier 4 compliance and allowing it to enter the U.S. market.
With a carrier length of only 56 feet (17.1 meters), Terex calls the AC 500-8 the “most compact eight-axle machine in its class that can achieve a maximum system length of 478 feet (145.8 meters) with a luffing fly jib.”
Along with the upgraded engine, the new AC 500-8 has been outfitted with a new control system called IC-1 Plus. Terex says the new system allows the AC 500-8 to be used on jobs where higher capacity cranes are typically necessary. Here’s their explanation of how the new system works:
The IC-1 Plus control system is designed to provide the crane’s maximum allowable lifting capacity, based on the slewing angle, for every crane configuration. The new control system no longer limits the maximum lifting capacity to a pre-calculated, 360° load chart which was based on the most unstable position of the crane.
Instantaneous capacity calculations allow customers to take full advantage of the maximum lifting capacity available at any given slewing position for any crane configuration. This advantage is particularly useful when working with reduced outrigger settings and reduced counterweight.
…This comes with an added benefit: for many applications, the IC-1 Plus control system not only uses the full potential of the crane’s lifting capacity, but also creates the opportunity to use less counterweight as compared to the 360° lifting capacities. This results in reduced transport costs.
The crane features a star-shaped outrigger design that Terex says “provides the required strength needed for minimal carrier deflection during maximum capacity lifts.”
