Terex Utilities recently launched its enhanced OptimaTM series of aerial devices—the company’s latest upgrades to its Hi-RangerTM product line. Primarily for utility line construction and maintenance applications, utility workers using the enhanced devices will appreciate their quicker boom speeds and improved responsiveness—the results of a redesigned hydraulic circuit and optimized hydraulic cylinders.
Four-models include:
- Optima TC Series
- Optima TCX Series
- Optima HR Series
- Optima HRX Series
REQUESTED UPGRADES
“Performance, productivity, and safety are among the top concerns of electric utility customers,” says Joe Caywood, Terex director of marketing. “Terex Utilities has responded to customer requests time and again in an effort to provide continuous improvement of our products that are rooted in these three areas of focus.”
Improvements also include greater payload capacity, enhanced side reach, and increased ground access, as well as features that shorten maintenance time. The enhanced Optima TC and Optima HR provide three ft of additional side reach, with an indicator light showing the operator when the boom moves into the extended reach area and has reduced jib capacity. The extended side reach also allows for the upper boom to be lowered all the way to the ground. An optional Load Alert system monitors the truck’s jib and basket capacity.
“The lower ground access makes it easier for operators to hand off tools to ground personnel, clean out debris in the bucket, and is useful in operator recovery situations,” Caywood says. “Optima is built on the strong foundation of Hi-Ranger, designed to provide greater reliability, efficiency, and simplified operation and maintenance.”
All of Optima’s enhanced devices now boast a 700-lb standard platform capacity, with optional 800-lb capacity platforms available for the Optima TCX and HRX models. Another option is a platform that incorporates two single-person buckets that measure 24 x 30-inches each, and have weight capacities of 350 lbs each.
MORE VEHICLE PAYLOAD
Improved payload is always an advantage when it comes to work trucks, their accessories, and their upfits. Aerial devices are no exception. Workers benefit from being able to carry as much gear as possible, so they have all the tools they need when they need them. These enhanced aerial devices are constructed of higher-strength steel which reduces overall vehicle weight, allowing the truck to carry a heavier load. Depending on configuration and stability requirements, the Optima TCX and Optima HRX now provide for up to 1,000 lbs more vehicle payload capacity.
IMPROVED MAINTENANCE
Simplified maintenance can contribute greatly to keeping equipment on the job and out of the shop. Several improvements made to Optima’s aerial devices extend the time between needed maintenance tasks, as well as the time those tasks take. One improvement is an available leveling chain with extended inspection requirements—life extended to 10 years based on typical utility usage—and the five-year inspection doesn’t require the chain be removed and measured for wear. Yet another is the new pedestal design, giving technicians easier access to torque lower rotation bearing bolts. Those bolts are now accessible outside of the pedestal. Another is that hydraulic fittings above the boom rotation are sealed with O-rings, which reduces leaks. All of the aerial devices now are finished with a powder coating, providing for more durability and a longer life.
“All of this adds up to less downtime and less cost for servicing the aerial device, which lowers the total cost of ownership,” says Caywood.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Terex Corporation is a global manufacturer of lifting and material-processing products and services. Terex brands include Terex, Genie, Powerscreen, and Demag. Find out more, visit www.terex.com.
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MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS: NOVEMBER 2017 ISSUE
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