HEK Manufacturing has introduced a new work platform which has been developed specifically in response to customer demands for higher payload, faster travel speed and longer platform.

The HEK MS ProMax mast climbing workplatform sets new standards, says a spokeswoman for the company, which is considered to be the world's leading manufacturer of mast climbing work platforms.
According to her, it has:

MS ProMax
'The MS ProMax mast climbing work platform is ideal for medium to high-rise applications such as glass, stone and metal facade cladding, insulation, masonry and renovation projects,' she explains. 'Because it enables a much larger surface area to be covered from one platform, it is an ideal alternative to traditional scaffolding and suspended systems.'
A new gearbox design in the drive unit enables a 57 per cent increase in travel speed to 11 m per second.  This feature, together with increased payload, will be appreciated by contractors working on high-rise applications, she adds.
Increased payload is achieved by a specially-designed new upper roller section to the drive unit.  On a single-mast configuration, the load capacity of the MS ProMax is a maximum of 3,000 kg. In twin-mast configuration, payload is increased to a maximum of 5,000 kg.
When used in conjunction with the Megadeck central deck section, the maximum platform length is 38.4 m.  Apart from providing easy, uninterrupted access to a significantly large facade area, in many applications, it will also reduce the number of mast and drive units required, thereby contributing to increased cost efficiency, the spokeswoman points out.  Fewer masts also mean fewer anchor points, so 'make-good' time on dismantling is also reduced.
The HEK MS ProMax can work to heights of 200 m when anchored or free stand to heights of 20 m.  Deck width is a maximum of 2.5 m, sufficient to provide both storage space for tools and material and freedom for personnel to move around and work uninterrupted.
For easier erection and dismantling, the height at which the mast section has to be lifted has been decreased to just 20 cm.  Like all HEK mastclimbing workplatforms, once the drive section has been positioned, it takes just two men to erect and dismantle.

Savings
Because the HEK MS ProMax uses standard mast and deck sections from the MSM Super/MSHF models, existing customers and fleet operators can purchase the new drive unit as an add-on to their fleet to benefit from the longer platform length, the higher travel speed and payload capacity.  (The longer deck length is only possible with the Megadeck.)
Fewer drive units mean lower maintenance costs as well as faster erection and dismantling times.

Applications
The MS ProMax opens up new opportunities for mastclimbing workplatforms for indoor or outdoor applications. 
The spokeswoman elaborates: 'The longer platform length and increased payload capacity now makes the use of such machines even more cost-efficient compared to traditional scaffolding and suspended access solutions. 
'Two two-man teams can, typically, erect a 100-m-high MS ProMax, in twin-mast configuration, with a 38.4 m  workplatform in as little as three days compared to more workers taking a much longer time to install a scaffolding system with the problem of additional anchor points. 
'The open deck also permits storage of large-dimensioned facade panels as well as facilitating easier installation with less likelihood of damage. 
'The payload capacity of the MS ProMax also makes it feasible to install glazing units from the outside, thereby eliminating the manhandling of panels through the building interior. On-board power supply also eliminates trailing cables and permits the use of a wide range of power tools.
'The four-wheeled mobile chassis with outriggers permits easy movement of the MS ProMax (in freestanding mode) around the site without the need to dismantle mast sections.' 

Engineering
The MS ProMax is yet another example of HEK's innovative engineering skills to deliver even better, more cost-efficient access solutions to the construction industry, she says.   It is produced by HEK Manufacturing at Middelbeers, the Netherlands, which is certified ISO 9001 compliant.
The HEK International Group, together with Alimak AB, is part of Intervect - considered to be the world's leading supplier of vertical access solutions.  Worldwide sales and servicing is provided through a network of Intervect subsidiaries, regional managers and independent dealers.