Manitowoc MLC650

The Manitowoc MLC650 is a high-capacity crawler crane designed with cutting-edge technology to enhance lifting efficiency and jobsite flexibility. It has a rated lifting capacity of 650 tonnes, which increases to 700 tonnes with the optional VPC-MAX attachment. This crane utilizes Manitowoc’s proprietary Variable Position Counterweight (VPC) system, which automatically adjusts the counterweight position along the rotating bed depending on boom angle and lifting radius. This innovation reduces the need for extensive ground preparation, lowers ground bearing pressure, and eliminates the need for bogeys or carbody counterweights.

The standard MLC650 is equipped with a 104 m main boom. It can be combined with a 30 m fixed jib or a 101 m luffing jib, bringing the total maximum boom and jib configuration to 157 m. When fitted with VPC-MAX, it can support up to 140 m of main boom or a combined 205 m of boom and luffing jib. This attachment includes a 36 m mast and adds 100 tonnes of counterweight, which automatically repositions based on load moment to optimize crane stability and capacity.

Transport and assembly of the MLC650 are optimized through modular design, allowing boom inserts and the removable live mast shipping module to be shipped cost-effectively. The crane is also equipped with a self-erect mast cylinder and upperworks and carbody that ship on a single trailer, further minimizing setup time.

The MLC650 includes a high-performance control system with full graphic displays, ergonomic joysticks, and a jog dial interface for simplified operation. Hydraulic functions are powered by high-pressure piston pumps and protected by full-flow filtration and relief valves. The swing system uses a dual hydraulic motor setup with a maximum swing speed of 1.3 rpm, or 0.9 rpm in VPC-MAX mode.

Manitowoc’s FACT™ (Fast Aligning Connection Technology) is featured in the boom, enabling quick and secure assembly. Other highlights include a galvanized, insulated operator cab with full visibility and an integrated Vision Cab™ system for enhanced operator comfort and control.

Since its launch at ConExpo 2014 alongside the MLC300, the MLC650 has become a benchmark in its class. In March 2015, it completed maximum load testing with the VPC-MAX installed. The first MLC650 in South Korea was delivered to rental company Shinui Petra in 2016 and was quickly deployed for infrastructure work.