Grove RT550E

The Grove RT550E, launched at Bauma 2013, is a compact yet powerful rough terrain crane with a rated capacity of 45 tons (40.8 metric tonnes). The crane is equipped with a five-section full power boom that extends from 9.9 meters to 39 meters, which is the longest in its class. The Megaform™ boom design optimizes strength-to-weight ratio, and the Twin-Lock™ boom pinning system allows for quick and secure section locking using a single hydraulic cylinder, thereby reducing internal boom weight and maximizing lifting capacity.

For increased reach and flexibility, the RT550E features an 8-meter fixed swingaway jib that is offsettable at 0°, 20°, and 40°, giving a maximum tip height of 49 meters. The boom elevates between -2.5° and +79° via a double-acting hydraulic cylinder with holding valves.

The superstructure includes a full-vision, all-steel cab fitted with acoustic insulation, tinted safety glass, deluxe seating with dual-axis electronic controllers, heating, and air conditioning. The operator interface features Manitowoc’s ICOS color display for load moment and anti-two-block systems, with audio-visual warnings and integrated work area definition to enhance safety on job sites.

Power is delivered by a Cummins QSB 6.7-liter diesel engine producing 119 kW at 2500 rpm, with a peak torque of 732 Nm at 1500 rpm. This engine is paired with a 6-speed range-shift transmission (3 speeds x 2 ranges, both forward and reverse) and a front axle disconnect for optional 4×2 travel.

The RT550E chassis features 4×4 drive/steer configuration, fully independent hydraulic steering, and four steering modes—front, rear, crab, and coordinated. The crane offers a turning radius of just 7.02 meters and has a maximum road speed of 27 km/h. The theoretical gradeability is rated at 68%, with a gross vehicle weight of 28,500 kg. Standard tires are 16.00×25 with an option for 20.5×25.

Outrigger design incorporates inverted hydraulic jacks to protect the cylinder rods from jobsite contaminants and to extend seal life. Outriggers can be deployed in three positions: fully retracted, 50%, or 100% extension. The maximum pad load reaches up to 31,340 kg.

The hydraulic system includes two main pumps (one piston and one gear) with a total capacity of 380 LPM (or 484 LPM with air-conditioning), operating at a maximum pressure of 275.7 bar. The hoisting system provides a line pull of up to 53 kN and a line speed of 112 m/min using a 16 mm diameter rope. The main hoist rope length is 190 meters, while the auxiliary hoist holds 137 meters.

Additional features include Manitowoc’s CraneSTAR asset management system, optional auxiliary hoist package, lighting and convenience packages, and CE compliance features. The RT550E stands out for its high lifting performance in a compact footprint, making it a reliable option for congested urban sites or confined industrial work zones.