Two new high-reaching, heavy-duty rotating telehandlers from Italian manufacturer Merlo have arrived in the U.S. Both are available from Merlo’s U.S. importer, Applied Machinery Sales, Rock Hill, South Carolina.
The two new models, named R70.24 S-Plus and R70.28 S-Plus, each can lift up to 15,400 lbs. The R70.24 can reach vertically to 80’, and the R70.28 can reach up 91’. Applied Machinery Sales says that both are built to stand up to the most demanding job requirements and that both also work from a compact footprint.
Performance
Both machines have nimble maneuverability and can travel at up to 25 mph, thanks to a robust 170-hp Iveco 4-cylinder engine, a hydrostatic transmission with electronic Eco Power Drive control, and three steering modes.
The EPD allows the rpm to vary independently of the speed of the machine. The load-sensing and flow-sharing hydraulic circuits deliver seamless, simultaneous, multiple boom movements with rapid 360° turret rotation for productivity and precise control for spot-on load placement.
The chassis is surrounded by a 3” ring of steel. The design lowers the center of gravity, helps protect the machine, and distributes weight perfectly.
The cab and the controls
Merlo’s well-known 360° operator view comes from more than 46 sq. ft. of glass surface, which offers brightness and visibility. In addition, the cab tilts up to 20°, ensuring the operator has continuous visual sightlines of the boom and load.
Cab access is now easier and safer with the addition of handles and steps on both sides of the turret.
A wide split door leads into a spacious command center. The cab air is cleaned by a HEPA filter, and the eight-vent AC/heat system efficiently delivers optimal airflow for operator comfort.
Designed for maximum operator efficiency, the S-Plus Rotos have a touch-control SMART multi-function armrest; two horizontal capacitive sensitive joysticks; and a touch-sensitive dashboard. Functional controls, such as independent stabilizer placement and machine suspension, are integrated into the armrest. The cab is mounted on isolation pads to reduce noise and vibration. Plus, the no flex boom's Tac-lock system is safely controlled from the cab for quick, safe attachment of accessories.
Safety & Stability
The Advanced Safety System incorporates the best of Merlo telehandler safety systems. It collects and analyzes real-time data, such as stabilizer position (65 sensors), boom extension, boom angle, turret position, carriage rotation, load position, and weight, and displays them on the highly visible LCD. The active suspension system automatically corrects the machine’s position in relation to the terrain.
The four independent, multi-position stabilizers can be deployed individually for precise placement on tight job sights. Merlo stabilizers are designed to retract tightly in order to keep the footprint compact for safe jobsite travel. The load indicator display reflects the necessary data for safe load placement, with or without stabilizer activation.
Plus, high power and high dynamic braking let S-Plus Roto models to hold position, even on steep slopes.
The checklist
Rotating turret (360°) with tilt cab (20°)
Load sensing and flow sharing hydraulics allow for multiple, simultaneous boom movements, and rapid turret rotation
Automatic load management system (ASCS) displays operating and safety parameters in real-time on a large, very visible LCD
Hydrostatic transmission ensures precision machine movement
Active suspension system automatically corrects machine placement on uneven terrain for consistent, safe lifting
Multi-positional stabilizers can be individually or automatically deployed for precise placement on tight job sites
Compact footprint:
R70.24 S Plus: 24’3” x 8’2” (stabilizers deployed 17’3”) x 7’11”
R70.28 S Plus: 27’3” x 8’2” (stabilizers deployed 20’8”) x 10’10”
Lift & Access is part of the Catalyst Communications Network publication family.
