Gebr. Willing strengthens Rental Fleet with Largest Rotating Merlo Telehandler with Electric Option
15.01.2024
Bremen:
Specialising in crane and materials handling technology, Ansgar and Georg Willing are currently completing their fleet with the most powerful Merlo Roto. They took delivery of the new endlessly rotating Roto 70.28 S PLUS (7 tonnes - 28 m - 170 hp) from Merlo Germany in Bremen at the beginning of the year. It is the second of this size in the portfolio of the company based in Falkensee near Berlin. Its special feature is the optional electric operation of the hydraulics.
The electric equipment can be ordered in all S and S-PLUS rotors over 20 m lifting height. In addition to the regular Stage V-compliant 4-cylinder diesel engine, the electric versions are equipped with an electric motor. With this, all functions of the telescopic handler can be carried out electrically, with the exception of moving the basic machine.
Managing Director Georg Willing says of the decision to purchase the 32A version: "Investing in the XXL-Roto was a logical decision for us. It runs between our 16 and 30 tonne cranes in terms of power and boom. We also see it as a mobile alternative to the telescopic crawler crane."
The first Merlo seven-tonner crane arrived at the Willings in 2023 with a standard diesel engine.
"We want to deliver what others don't have and can't do. This runs through our entire, highly customised range."
He continues: "Everyone is talking about electromobility. Most people think of cars. In the construction industry, however, it has long been integrated by many manufacturers for economic reasons. The e-functions in the Roto are a good example. The tried and tested concept makes the largest rotating Merlo even more flexible."
"Together with Merlo Germany technician Ulrich Ellmers, we put the machine through its paces. The way the device received us was perfect. Everything apart from driving is actually electric.
What's more: "As the application runs via the socket without battery handling, you simply plug in the 'box' and you're ready to go. Switching from diesel to electric and back is also done quickly in a few simple steps. In electric mode, we have lower operating costs overall when working. Ingenious, we think."
The E option is available in many models of the Merlo Roto series with a lifting height of over 20 m and lifting capacities of 5 to 7 tonnes. Their booms extend upwards to around 35 metres. The uppercarriages can be rotated 600° or endlessly.
The abbreviation "S" in the type designation stands for the integrated hydropneumatic levelling system, "PLUS" for a higher level of equipment. At its core, it includes endless rotation, two load-sensing pumps to increase the total flow rate of the hydraulic system, two control blocks (one only for steering and swivelling) and the tipping cab. In addition, the "PLUS" version displays the inclination of the implement mount (more precisely, the load fork).
All rotors have radio and working platform preparation as standard. They also feature the Adaptive Stability Control System, or ASCS for short. It ensures the high safety parameters and assists the operator.
(from left to right) Ulrich Ellmers (Merlo, Technology), Ansgar Willing, Georg Willing, Henrich Clewing (Merlo Germany, Managing Director)
The Managing Director of Merlo Deutschland GmbH, Henrich Clewing, supports Willing Bros. in the decisions regarding the fleet. He adds: "The large rotors are our flagships. The 7t machines have immense appeal. Due to the variety of possible applications and technical features, they require a great deal of consultation. We are happy to take on these tasks and are focussing on an intensive exchange with the market and users."
