SECTOR REPORT Ӏ KNUCKLE BOOM LOADER CRANES
caused by increased trade tensions especially in the US market. Orders received, however, remained stable in this uncertain market environment. Our Q3 orders grew in EMEA as well as in APAC. ‘In 2026 we will continue to
execute on our 2024-2028 strategy and focus on growth opportunities. We aim at profitable growth by focusing on essential industries like construction, waste and recycling, defence logistics, retail and final mile. Growing our North American and services business will contribute to our future growth.’ Palfinger is another giant in the
knuckle boom loader crane sector. In April this year, at Bauma 2025 in Munich, Germany, it launched its latest innovation: the PK 880 TEC. Available to order now, the first units will be delivered early next year. “The crane is ideal for tight construction sites,” says Stefan Oberleitner, Palfinger’s product line leader for loader cranes. “In part that is because it is optimised
for weight; in part also because of its advanced engineering and intelligent features.”
DIGITAL DEVELOPMENTS Here Palfinger, like Hiab, is taking note of customer demand for smart features. One of the things that sets the TEC range apart, says Oberleitner, is state-of-the- art technology. “Key assistance systems like the Slewing Lock limit crane movement in restricted areas. The Memory Position function allows faster, more accurate, repeat lifts by storing up to four positions. And with the Levelling Assistant the PK 880 TEC can reduce setup and stabilisation time by up to 80 percent.” Precision is another byproduct of digital technology and control. Recognising this Palfinger has introduced new installation tips for its P-profile knuckle booms. They are designed for heavy-duty loader cranes with a maximum load capacity of 20 tonnes. The anchor
point and hook is offset upwards from the extension arm. This offset gains crucial centimetres; with it loads can be manoeuvred through openings and narrow passages that would otherwise be impossible. Another innovation along
The Hiab iQ708 HIPRO in action
the same lines is Palfinger’s tiltable crane fork: PZP TILT. It enables palletised or non- palletised materials to be placed with precision through façade openings or onto upper levels, so significantly improving productivity on challenging construction sites. Again, software is key: the device is fully integrated into the crane’s overload protection system via the company’s MTCF (Monitor Tiltable Crane Fork) software; operators receive real-time monitoring and visual feedback via remote control. This ensures each movement stays within safe operating parameters. The result, says Palfinger, is faster work processes, safer crane operation, and maximum precision. Customer demand, says
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