Last Updated on March 19, 2024 by PALFINGER
PALFINGER MARINE is gearing up to launch its new PFM 2100 crane series to the industry at the SMM trade show in Hamburg between the 3rd and 6th of September 2024. The all-new model features a 29-meter maximum outreach at a comparatively high load capacity, giving the crane a significant edge over its direct competition. This first blog article of four sheds a light on the development and prototyping process.
PALFINGER MARINE is a constant innovator of maritime lifting solutions and eager to continue living up to this reputation in 2024. Developing a new crane that gives our customers and partners a real competitive advantage is no mean feat and requires massive contributions from all talent pools across the entire company. In the case of the new PFM 2100 crane series, everyone involved rose to the challenge magnificently.
THE NEW PFM2100 – SOME HARD FACTS
The most notable innovation of the new PFM 2100 crane is the fact that it has no less than 9 boom extensions, resulting in an outreach of 29 meters. A high load capacity of over 4,000 kilos at maximum outreach constitutes a major advantage over existing solutions offered on the market. This latest model is also the first PALFINGER MARINE crane to feature our patented P-profile extension boom system. Its stiffness and lightweight design form the foundation for the impressive outreach. A high-end oil flow control valve, which allows the use of one or more hydraulic functions simultaneously, is key to swifter, smoother, and more accurate crane movements.
A LOOK AT RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
It is almost impossible for outsiders to fathom how much effort goes into developing a completely new crane solution. The feasibility analysis was conducted as early as 2021, with the main project launching in November 2022.
The scope of the project became evident as my entire team worked on the crane design, notably on calculating and simulating crane operations.
Sebastian Költringer, Discipline Leader Mechanical Engineering at PALFINGER MARINE
The primary target market involves the aquaculture industry, especially the fish farming segment. In addition, the focus lies on customers in the service and workboat segment.
The scope of the project became evident as the entire team collaborated on the crane design,notably on calculating and simulating crane operations.
INSIGHTS INTO PROTOTYPING
Christian Köck (left) and Markus Padinger (right), who can look back on 25 and 34 years of experience at PALFINGER respectively, were in charge of assembling the prototype in a specially equipped prototyping area in Köstendorf, Austria. The project was particularly exciting for Markus, who started out at our company as an apprentice. The initial model, featuring all mechanical and hydraulic elements, consisted of approximately 1,250 individual parts. Only the pre-assembled extension boom was delivered from our facility in Lengau, Austria. Building the prototype based on parts lists, computer modelling, and hydraulic mapping took roughly 500 working hours.
The prototype of the PFM 2100 that was built at the prototyping area in Köstendorf, Austria.
WHAT’S NEXT?
Prepare for a deep dive into prototype testing – from comprehensive functional and endurance tests to real-time operation comparisons. Stay tuned for our next blog installment, focusing on endurance testing and an exciting factory visit from our partner.