Jekko makes the crawler crane more powerful

After the launch of the JF365 Jekko has introduced a further, model with greater lifting capacity, which remains within the overall dimensions of a “non-oversized” transporter.

The new crawler crane features all the characteristics of the F990 by Fassi. “That’s how the JF990 has been developed as a winning bet,” says Alberto Franceschini, export sales manager of Jekko.

The new model is described as a real evolution where the traditionally compact dimensions – 6.75 x 2.14 x 3.45m (266 x 122 x 84in) combine with an increased extension capacity of 41m (134 ft), elevated lifting capacity (21,500kg (47,400lb) and advantages in transport.

“We’ve won the first part of the bet,” says Franceschini , “which required investing in an innovative product still not present on the market. We’ve developed a new machine, a stabilised crane truck on tracks that operates as if it was a minicrane. We’ve merged the experience deriving from the JF545 and the JF365 and have, therefore, responded to the market requirements for more performing yet compact-size machines.”

When compared to the dimensions of a truck, the JF990 still is a minicrane: compact, with variable stabilisation modes and a dual engine – diesel and electric. It can reach 41m when using the hydraulic jib and three manual extensions or 38m with an operator basket, which means it can work where a truck cannot reach.

The JF990 can work vertically or horizontally using the hook or the winch; it can also be equipped with a glass pane manipulator, a 3-person hydraulic platform in case of operation with a double articulated joint, and a 1 or 2-operator basket when using the jib to reach as high as 38m. The hydraulic activation on the jib allows for any additional option to be installed.

The JF990 without counterweight can be transported on a regular truck without requiring exceptional-load-transport.

This machine can use a 2.1t (4,630lb) standard counterweight for stabilisation on an area of 8.5 x 8.5m (28 x 28ft) as well as a 3t (6,612lb) extra counterweight reducing the crane footprint to an area of 7 x 7m (23 x 23ft).

The disassembly system – a fast and automatic quick release system similar to that of much bigger cranes – is managed via the radio remote control.

The JF990 crawler crane is independent from its truck and reaches confined places having a major and positive impact on site logistics timing. It can be transported to and used in places where a truck cannot reach: industrial sites, small places, narrow city centres, fenced parks, etc.

Jekko has developed stabilisation management software allowing the most suitable configuration. Each outrigger can take any angle and extension and the software will continuously calculate the operating pressure considering the position of the outriggers and the deriving tilting line. Five stability levels will be displayed on the screen for a user-friendly reading of the loading charts.

This crane can be entirely managed by a single operator via the radio remote control: starting/stopping, crane operations, stabilisation, jib or counterweight installation can be carried out by the operator by himself.

The JF990 is fitted with both a Deutz TCS3.6 L4 55 kW (Stage V, Tier 4) electronic diesel engine and a 13kW three-phase electric motor. Depending on the situations or the requirements, the operator can easily switch from one option to the other: the crane is very flexible and can be used indoors and outdoors.

Franceschini says, “We intend to market this crane mainly in North America and in Central and Northern Europe, where there’s a large demand for machinery able to differentiate from other products. I’m thinking of Norway as an example, where new regulations provide for a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions for yard machinery starting from 2021. The JF990 can operate in electric mode therefore it brings many advantages in highly environmentally-friendly countries. Rental will be another interesting segment because the JF990 has limited weight and excellent performance compared to similar cranes.”