Marine Knuckle Boom Crane: Key Benefits and Features
1. Compact and Saves Space
Its small size fits well in tight areas like ship decks, ports, and offshore platforms.
The folding boom saves space while still offering a long reach.
2. Easy to Move and Very Precise
It can rotate 360° non-stop, making it easy to place loads in any direction.
Smooth hydraulic controls allow accurate lifting, even in rough seas.
It can perform two movements at once (at lower speeds) for better efficiency.
3. Strong and Adaptable
Handles loads from 2 to 50 tonnes—can be built for heavier needs.
Reaches up to 20m, and can be extended for special uses.
The knuckle boom bends to handle difficult angles, which rigid cranes cannot do.
4. Built Tough for Harsh Conditions
Made with anti-rust materials (like Q235 steel) for saltwater environments.
Special versions are available for very cold weather.
Its built-in electro-hydraulic power system works on its own, for better reliability.
5. Smart Control Systems
Can be operated from the cabin or with a wireless remote for safety and flexibility.
Smooth speed control for steady load handling.
Optional load monitor improves safety and follows regulations.
6. Customizable for Different Uses
Modular design allows changes in pedestal height, boom length, and more.
Extra options include star-delta starters, lights, personnel baskets, and others.
Suitable for many fields: fishing, offshore wind, salvage, and navy operations.
7. Efficient and Safe to Use
Fast loading and unloading shorten port time.
Emergency lowering system for safe operation in critical situations.
Limit switches avoid overloading and prevent rotation accidents.
8. Meets Global Standards with Full Support
Comes with a 1.5-year warranty on main parts like engine, gearbox, and bearings.
Made in ISO-certified factories with quality checks before shipping.
After-sales service and installation support in over 100 countries.
Marine knuckle boom cranes are highly flexible and adjustable. They can lift loads from different angles and directions. With strong lifting ability, they easily move and install heavy equipment.
These cranes help load and unload goods quickly, which improves how fast ships can operate. They use automated systems, reduce manual work, and cut labor costs. They are stable and easy to use, making them safe and popular in shipping. Their compact design saves space on board, and they can be adjusted for various cargo types. Hydraulic power makes them quiet and energy-saving, supporting green shipping.
Production Details:
Precision machining: Each part is made with high accuracy for better performance.
High-strength steel: Main structures use strong steel for better load capacity and stability.
Heated operator cabin and control box: Provide comfort and ensure operation in very cold conditions.
Rigorous Load Testing:
Every crane undergoes strict load tests. Whether used on ship decks or during ship-to-ship operations, knuckle cranes perform safely and efficiently. Our advanced hydraulic technology is designed for marine use, offers a wider lifting range, and allows safe and fast cargo movement.
Example Project:
Two 250-ton knuckle cranes were built for an offshore energy support vessel. These cranes use an Active Heave Compensation (AHC) system. They connect smoothly to the ship’s DC power grid, reduce energy use during lifting, and work well with energy storage systems.
Crane Technical Highlights:
Lifting capacity: 250 tons main hoist, with an auxiliary hoist.
Working range: 36 meters max radius, suitable for deep-water jobs.
Energy efficiency: Uses a fifth-gen motion controller (HMC 05c) for better interaction with alternative fuel power systems.
Green technology: Supports ammonia, methanol, and LNG fuels.
Case Study:
The second 2.85-ton, 14-meter knuckle crane for a Norwegian client passed ship survey and received CCS certification. This success marks a new level in our partnership.
The client first came to us looking for a reliable partner who could deliver an efficient lifting solution. Our technical skill and ability to meet specific needs made us the chosen supplier. The first crane was delivered and highly praised.
When the client needed another crane of the same model, they returned to us. To make sure the new crane performs reliably in tough marine conditions, we followed international standards in design and manufacturing. We selected high-quality materials, machined parts with precision, and assembled the whole unit with care.
Steel was chosen for its strength, toughness, and corrosion resistance. Engineers select the right type and size of steel based on the crane’s structure and stress points. All parts are precisely machined for perfect fit and better performance.
After completion, the client visited our factory for inspection. Our team gave a live demonstration, showing our manufacturing strength. Compared to the first crane, the new one has improved details and better performance. The client was very satisfied with the upgrades.
Marine Knuckle Boom Crane: Compact, Efficient, and Versatile
This crane is small, has a compact design, and moves flexibly. It loads and unloads quickly and rotates 360 degrees. It handles cargo on ships easily and fits tight spaces.
It works well at various docks. Its 360-degree rotation helps position cargo precisely. It uses both electric and hydraulic systems. You can choose a control mode. We also customize cranes to meet special needs. It is suitable for underwater salvage, marine fisheries, aquaculture, construction, and more.
Why Choose Our Marine Knuckle Boom Crane?
✅ Years of Experience: We have over 14 years in crane engineering and export to over 100 countries.
✅ Full Support: We help with customization (FOB/CFR/CIF) and installation.
✅ Good Value: We offer cranes that are affordable and strong. Some handle up to 900 tons.
Good For: Ship cargo, offshore oil rigs, fish farming, wind turbine work, and salvage operations.
How to Operate the Knuckle Boom Crane Safely
This crane is small and saves space. It moves goods on ships and reduces manual work. To use it safely, follow these rules:
Before Operating:
Do not use the crane until it is tested after installation.
Make sure all control handles are in the middle position before turning on the power. If not, move them to the middle and add lubricant.
Check all safety devices before use.
Operate and lift goods from the same side for best view.
Hold the control lever as shown in the "OK" image. This allows quick release to the middle position in case of danger.
Opening and Closing the Crane
To open the crane:
Fully close the second knuckle.
Open the first knuckle.
Then open the second knuckle.
To use the telescopic boom:
Estimate the weight of the goods before lifting. Compare it with the crane’s rated load. Plan the path to lower the goods.
Lower goods slowly and place them gently. Avoid swinging. Do not let goods hit the crane.
Avoid rotating with heavy loads. Retract the boom before turning to protect the crane.
After attaching goods, avoid sudden starts or stops. This reduces extra force on the crane.
Note: Use the same handle to control all sections of the telescopic boom.
To close the crane:
Fully retract the telescopic boom.
Note:
After work, disconnect the hydraulic pump.
Check that all control handles are in the middle. If not, reset them manually.
Crane Maintenance
Check the crane regularly. Inspect all parts, especially safety devices.
Check power lines and hydraulic pipes. There should be no leaks or twists.
Check the oil level. Keep it between the high and low marks.
Always remember: safety first.
A Quick Repair Story: 12-ton Crane Breakdown
The 12-ton knuckle crane suddenly stopped working. It was stuck while loading food supplies. They asked for repair right away.
I put on my clean, dry work uniform and picked up my tool bag from the engine room. My look is what they call "old school."
On the way, I saw a repair team working on the elevator. They said it was broken. I hoped it wasn’t an electrical issue. I went to fix the crane first.
The operator said the crane stopped during work. They turned the power off and on again. Then the screen showed an emergency stop. When they pressed the reset button, the power shut off again.
That sounded unusual. I checked all fuses in the power cabinet—all were good. The manager brought the manual. The circuit design was clear and well-made.
Since the power cabinet was fine, I climbed up to check the control cabinet. I used a ladder to reach the platform. It was nice up there with the sea breeze.
I turned the main power back on. The input and output voltage of the power module were normal. The OMRON power module looked well-built.
The screen still showed the emergency error, even though the button was not pressed. I pressed the reset button, and the power cut off again. The power module had input but no output. It had shut off to protect itself. Something was short-circuiting.
The operator said they had just changed the main solenoid valve coil two days ago. That was a good clue.
Earlier, the oil pressure was low. We checked the solenoid valve and found power was normal. We asked them to replace the valve, but they used a non-original part instead.
I unplugged the solenoid valve connector and turned the power on. This time, the emergency error was gone. The motor started normally.
I measured the resistance of the replacement coil—it was zero. It was broken after just a few hours of use.
We replaced it with a new coil. The crane worked again.
In this job, this is what makes me happy: getting a repair call, finding the problem, thinking clearly, fixing it fast, and getting back to work.
