Link-Belt HC-278H

The Link-Belt HC-278H is a 300-ton capacity hydraulic lattice boom truck crane designed for heavy-duty lifting operations in construction, infrastructure, and industrial projects. Known for its unmatched load control and transportability, this crane combines advanced hydraulic technology with a modular design to provide efficiency in both operation and mobility.

The lattice boom is made of high-strength alloy steel, providing a lightweight yet durable structure that maximizes lifting capacity. The HC-278H offers a maximum boom length of 330 feet (100.58 meters), with the option of a 100-foot (30.48 meters) jib for extended reach, making it ideal for projects requiring long boom configurations. For specific applications, the crane also supports a 250-foot luffing boom with a 200-foot luffing jib, and a 30-foot fixed jib, allowing for a total maximum reach of 76.2 meters. Additionally, a “hammerhead” style boom attachment is available for specialized lifting tasks.

The transportability of the HC-278H is a major feature, allowing the crane to be moved quickly and efficiently between job sites. Its modular design enables the crane to be broken down into components, such as the boom and counterweight, using the built-in live mast or an optional 10-foot boom extension for lifting sheaves. This design reduces over-the-road weight and ensures compliance with transportation regulations. The self-contained hydraulic lift-off jacks take just four minutes to be positioned, allowing for easy disassembly and reassembly. A patented hydraulic quick disconnect system further speeds up the process, enabling the upper structure to be separated from the carrier in just two minutes.

The carrier is built on a triple-box frame for maximum strength and stability while keeping the overall weight optimized for transport. This 12×6 carrier, designed by Link-Belt, features air brakes, bogie beam axle suspension, and full-time hydraulic power steering for improved maneuverability. The Detroit Diesel Series 60 engine provides 430 horsepower (321 kW) and includes advanced Detroit Diesel Electronic Controls (DDEC) for enhanced torque management, variable speed idling, and electronic throttle control for precise operator control. The crane can achieve a low creep speed of 0.3 mph (0.5 km/h) for precision movements and a highway speed of up to 58.5 mph (94.2 km/h) for efficient road travel. A CEEMAT 9-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth shifting and reduces driver fatigue during long transports.

The HC-278H’s hydraulic system is based on the proven HYLAB system, offering reliable pilot-operated hydraulic controls for all crane functions, providing precise control for lifting, slewing, and boom extension. This system has been time-tested in over 2,000 cranes worldwide, offering unmatched reliability and performance.

In terms of safety and efficiency, the HC-278H is designed to minimize setup time while maximizing operational performance. The self-contained hydraulic lift-off jacks allow the crane to swing into position in just minutes, while the quick-disconnect turntable bearing, with its snap ring design, ensures fast and secure separation of the upper structure for transport. These features make it possible to get the crane operational quickly upon arrival at the job site and reduce downtime between jobs.

In conclusion, the Link-Belt HC-278H is a high-performance 300-ton lattice boom truck crane that excels in both heavy lifting and transport efficiency. Its combination of a powerful diesel engine, advanced hydraulic systems, modular design, and versatile boom configurations make it an ideal choice for large construction, infrastructure, and industrial lifting projects requiring both reach and lifting power.