As part of Link-Belt’s ongoing strategy to be a leader in customer service and satisfaction, Link-Belt will show its new, in-house designed, total crane operating system called Link-Belt Pulse at ConExpo, March 22–26, 2011, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Far more than just a rated capacity limiter (RCL), Link-Belt Pulse includes a boom extend mode controller (EMC), self-diagnostic capabilities and continuous monitoring of multiple crane functions and conditions. And most importantly, because it’s an in-house design, Link-Belt itself can better control customer support.
Extensive customer input was key to Link-Belt Pulse development. For over a year, the system endured field-testing in climate extremes from cold and damp to hot and humid. In even the harshest environments, Link-Belt Pulse showed bulletproof reliability. This extensive testing also assured that the entire system is fast and easy with the main working screen providing everything the operator needs.
As a rated capacity limiter, Link-Belt Pulse shows maximum allowable load, load on hook, and crane geometry. It warns of an approaching overload or two block condition and shuts down relevant operations when necessary. It also monitors wind speed and warns the operator with a visual alarm. Pre-settable alarms can also assist in avoiding obstructions on the job site.
For boom operation, Link-Belt Pulse clearly animates the boom’s mode of extension. And for cranes equipped with pinning and latching booms, it displays pin and latch status and telescope cylinder travel. All information for telescope operation can be accessed and viewed in real time.
Moreover, Link-Belt Pulse can monitor and control counterweight removal and installation and even fine metering of the winches if the crane is so equipped.
Because of extensive customer input, diagnostic functions are simple to understand. They show repair faults in all areas including sensor data. Faults are indicated by a short message rather than an undecipherable code and, with the press of a button, the system gives further information about the fault and how to clear it.
Link-Belt Pulse sets a new standard for an easy-to-use, reliable, accurate crane operating system. It also lays a firm foundation for extensive future technology. Link-Belt Pulse will be shown at ConExpo on the TCC-1100, HTC-8690, RTC-8090 Series II, and ATC-3275.
