Hammar has taken the wraps off an entirely new side loader in New Zealand that delivers a unique two-in-one lifting capability, while at the same time dramatically lowering the tare weight.
The all-new Hammar 110 was unveiled for the first time anywhere in the world at THE Expo transport and construction machinery show in Mystery Creek, near Hamilton, attracting worldwide interest.
The new model features a double-action system that can either deploy the ‘StepOver’ leg technology developed for the Hammar 155 for stacking or transferring containers, or a new, patented, fast ground handling ability called the ‘SledgeLeg’. The double-action system operates in a single cycle, making it easier to utilise.
In ‘SledgeLeg’ mode, it sees the legs extended to less than half their maximum outreach to rest on a knuckle built into the upper part of the longer ‘StepOver’ leg, as it folds into itself.
This feature enables the Hammer 110 side loader to operate in much tighter, confined spaces. And because the leg does not need to unfold completely, loading and unloading containers is much faster using the ‘SledgeLeg’.
Hammar New Zealand boss, Fred Sandberg, describes it as both an “evolutionary and revolutionary” development and says the 110 model was designed with markets like New Zealand in mind.
“Space is becoming a premium at many businesses in the major cities and towns these days, which makes it difficult for truck drivers to operate a traditional side loader when delivering or picking up a container,” he says.
“When we started looking at how we could assist drivers in this respect we also wanted to use the opportunity to save tare weight, yet without compromising the 36-tonnes lifting capacity, or the strength, quality and durability that Hammar is so well known for,” says Sandberg.
Hammar used its highly successful ‘StepOver’ 155 model as the starting point, developing the double-action ‘SledgeLeg’ system to increase its versatility. Then it took the cranes from the 160 model and revised the trailer chassis to use fewer components and incorporate lighter, high-strength steel as part of the weight reduction exercise.
“Even though we have shaved some 2 tonnes of weight by comparison to the 155, the new 110 model is still extremely strong,” says Sandberg.
Sandberg says the swift deployment of the stabiliser legs in the ‘SledgeLeg’ mode means trucks can be in and out of customer premises in no time, describing the operation as “super-fast” compared to traditional side loaders. And with the ability to still transfer a container or stack on top of another with the fully extended ‘StepOver’ legs, the new 110 provides more options for transport operators.
The new model has much-reduced tare weight, which is now down to 8.3 tonnes. With the prototype now successfully launched, the new Hammar 110 will go into production at the company’s newly enlarged manufacturing facility in Takanini, South Auckland.
It is also safe, thanks to a low centre of gravity that keeps the rig stable, regardless of the cargo and driving environment.
The 110 remains stable whether using the new ‘SledgeLeg’ mode or the ‘StepOver’ because it provides a firm base for the lift in both operations.
Each Hammar side loader model sold in New Zealand comes with a cable remote control as standard, to allow the driver to move around the side loader for the best possible view – a small, easy-to-use radio remote control is also available.
The operation is very smooth, thanks to the advanced hydraulics and electronics, with a soft landing to ensure containers and any delicate cargo is not damaged.
