Spierings SK1265-AT6

The Spierings SK1265-AT6 represents the upper end of the mobile tower crane segment and reflects the long-standing design philosophy of Spierings, which focuses on combining tower crane performance with road-going mobility. Developed for large-scale and high-rise construction projects, the SK1265-AT6 was introduced to serve contractors who require long reach, high hook heights, and high lifting capacities without the logistical complexity of conventional tower crane erection.

Mounted on a six-axle all-terrain carrier, the SK1265-AT6 has a gross vehicle weight of approximately 72 tonnes, depending on configuration and local road regulations. The crane is powered for road travel by a heavy-duty diesel engine driving the carrier, providing a maximum travel speed of around 80 km/h and good gradeability for long-distance relocation between sites. All six axles are steered, giving the crane excellent maneuverability despite its size, which is particularly important when accessing congested urban sites.

The crane superstructure features a lattice jib with a maximum length of 60 metres. In horizontal trolley jib configuration, the SK1265-AT6 can handle loads of approximately 2,000 kg at maximum radius, while delivering a maximum lifting capacity of 10,000 kg at short radii. The crane’s load moment capability places it firmly in the heavy mobile tower crane category, making it suitable for handling large prefabricated elements, concrete components, and structural steel. By raising the jib to steep angles, the crane achieves impressive hook heights of up to approximately 80 metres, enabling work on high-rise residential and commercial buildings.

A key characteristic of the SK1265-AT6 is its fully automatic, one-man erection system. The telescopic tower and jib are erected quickly at the push of a button, following a controlled and compact assembly curve that minimizes the space required around the crane during setup. This allows the crane to be erected on sites where traditional tower crane assembly would be difficult or impossible. Once erected, the crane can remain standing between work phases without dismantling, improving overall site productivity.

All crane working motions are electrically driven, including hoisting, slewing, trolley travel, and erection. Electrical power for crane operation is supplied either by an onboard diesel generator or via an external site power connection, allowing the SK1265-AT6 to operate with low noise and reduced local emissions when external power is available. The electric drives provide smooth, stepless control, with precise load handling characteristics comparable to those of a conventional top-slewing tower crane. Slewing speeds are optimized for stability at large radii, while hoisting speeds allow both fast material handling and fine positioning.

The outrigger system consists of four fully hydraulic supports with automatic leveling and electronic inclination monitoring. Multiple outrigger base widths are possible, enabling the crane to adapt to restricted site conditions while maintaining safe working capacities. Thanks to its favorable center of gravity and robust carrier design, the SK1265-AT6 can be repositioned slowly on site while erected, subject to manufacturer guidelines, which is a significant advantage on large projects with changing lifting zones.

The operator’s cab is designed to tower crane standards, offering excellent all-round visibility, ergonomic controls, and a comfortable working environment for long shifts. Advanced monitoring and safety systems provide real-time information on load conditions, crane configuration, and wind speeds, contributing to safe and efficient operation.

In summary, the Spierings SK1265-AT6 is a high-capacity mobile tower crane engineered for demanding urban and high-rise construction projects. Its combination of long reach, high hook height, strong lifting performance, and rapid self-erection makes it a powerful alternative to large conventional tower cranes, particularly where flexibility, speed of deployment, and site logistics are critical considerations.