Sany SAC18000T

The SANY SAC18000T is a next-generation 1,800-ton all-terrain crane purpose-built to meet the soaring demands of modern wind power construction. This 9-axle flagship model stands as one of the most advanced mobile cranes in Sany’s lineup, designed with the specific requirements of erecting 140-meter class wind turbines. It merges cutting-edge engineering with smart systems to deliver outstanding lifting performance, operational efficiency, and safety.

Officially launched as part of SANY’s heavy-lift strategy in wind energy, the SAC18000T has been strategically developed for rapid deployment, heavy component lifting, and long-boom operations in the renewable energy sector. It introduces several breakthrough technologies, including dual winch coordination, closed dual pump confluence systems, and an intelligent multi-mode suspension platform, all tailored to reduce installation times and enhance job site reliability.

With its maximum lifting capacity of 1,800 tonnes, the SAC18000T provides tiered lifting performance—handling 190 tonnes at 100 meters, 172 tonnes at 110 meters, and still lifting 140 tonnes at 140 meters, with a safety margin exceeding 20%. These metrics align with typical turbine specs like the EN-156/3.0 and EN-182/4.8, ensuring compatibility across a wide range of wind energy installations. The crane reduces average turbine installation time by 5.2 hours, delivering a significant operational edge.

A major engineering feat lies in its boom system. The main boom extends up to 110 meters, and when paired with a luffing jib up to 108 meters, it reaches lifting heights exceeding 170 meters. The structure uses high-strength steel with an optimized mid-to-long section design to resist deformation under high wind conditions—a common challenge in turbine erection.

The SAC18000T also introduces several wind power–specific enhancements. Its advanced tightening technology replaces traditional methods for faster and more secure boom assembly. It features emergency power for the single-cylinder pin system, ensuring uninterrupted operation during power failures. Meanwhile, the dual winch system allows synchronized, accurate lifting of large nacelles or tower sections, preventing rope entanglement and offering ±0.5° hooking accuracy aided by wireless level monitoring.

Control and safety are top priorities. Operators benefit from a fully integrated AI-driven diagnostic and monitoring system, complete with winch anti-entanglement alarms, emergency brake functions, and real-time suspension posture feedback. The crane’s smart suspension system actively adjusts damping resistance and improves road adaptability, offering stability during both travel and lifting.

From a mobility standpoint, the SAC18000T features a 9-axle chassis with four drive axles, supported by an oil-gas suspension system and independent steering on most axles. Despite its size, the crane maintains a tight turning radius of 14.5 meters and reaches a top speed of 70 km/h—crucial for site access in remote wind farms.

Power is delivered via two separate engines: a 485 kW lower engine with 3200 N·m of torque for driving, and a 360 kW upper engine generating 2200 N·m of torque for crane operations. This dual-engine setup ensures dedicated, reliable performance even during simultaneous driving and lifting tasks.

Assembly efficiency is also noteworthy. With a boom setup time of just 240 seconds and a main winch line speed of 130 m/min, the SAC18000T can be fully operational in record time. The total system weight in full configuration—including superlift, outrigger, luffing cylinder, winch, and six boom sections—is approximately 258.5 tonnes.

Operator comfort and control are further enhanced with climate-controlled cabs on both upper and lower structures, spacious visibility areas, and ergonomic instrumentation to support long hours of operation under demanding environmental conditions.

In summary, the SANY SAC18000T is not just a powerful lifting machine—it is a specialized solution for the future of wind energy construction. With its advanced control systems, industry-leading safety features, and unmatched lifting performance, it delivers speed, precision, and reliability for the world’s most challenging renewable energy projects.