UK first for crane hirers Hewden
Company invests £11.5 million in new cranes including UK’s first 21m long telescopic self-assembly luffing jib
NATIONAL equipment and crane hire firm Hewden have bolstered their crane business with the addition of 21 cranes ranging from 70 tonnes up to 220 tonnes in an investment totalling £11.5 million.
The new fleet includes a UK first with an innovative new flexible hydraulic jib from Japanese manufacturer Tadano, capable of hoisting loads under roof constructions.
This latest investment lifts the size of cranes handled by Hewden to a new high. Previously dealing with cranes up to 130 tonnes, the new range extends the capacity up to 220 tonnes, with two rigs from Tadano.
The 220-tonne cranes feature a 21m long fully-hydraulic telescopic luffing jib (HTLJ) that can self assemble and provides the flexibility needed for a range of jobs – the first time it has been available in the UK.
Allowing objects to be lifted beyond building edges and be telescoped into building structures with a ceiling, a manoeuvre previously not possible with rigid boom extensions, the Tadano HTLJ principally works like an additional fully hydraulic main boom.
Another advantage is its safe ‘one man only’ quick set-up time of around 30 minutes, with assembly possible in very narrow spaces at the shortest jib length.
Mark Hierons, operations director with Hewden, said: ‘We’ve been involved in the commercial crane hire sector for more than 40 years but this latest venture is a significant development from our traditional fleet.
‘We are going bigger and better, with the new Tadano rig showing how innovative technology can really help to cut costs and improve health and safety.’
Meanwhile, in a separate development, Hewden have completed the purchase of lifting and materials-handling company Interlift as they seek to further expand their rental capabilities.
According to Hewden, the strategic acquisition is part of their customer-centric approach to further products and services in key markets, including construction, industrial and events.
From depots in Middlesbrough, Hull and Glasgow, Interlift provide a range of lifting products and accessories, including: hoists, lifting straps, shackles, beam and plate clamps, height safety and man-riding equipment.
The company, which employs 34 sales, operational and administrative staff, will continue to operate independently whilst utilizing Hewden’s nationwide depot network.
Interlift say their range is complementary to Hewden’s existing products and will strengthen their portfolio of specialist lifting equipment.
Hewden’s chief executive officer, Adrian Murphy, believes the acquisition of Interlift marks a significant step in Hewden’s recent transformation.
‘Like any successful business, we are continuously evolving. Our goal has always been to develop and acquire complementary businesses that have the best people and the best products to support our customers in the markets in which they operate,’ he said.
‘This acquisition is testament to that and increases our capacity to offer industry-leading specialist lifting products and services within our business.’
