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What are telehandlers used for: benefits and more

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 12:18:13 GMT

21/02/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

If you have ever been out on a construction, railway or agriculture project site, telehandlers are one of the most prominent pieces of machinery on the site. A telehandler is a popular machine due to its combination of providing height like a crane but also the lifting and attachment abilities of a forklift. This allows for the telehandler to tackle a wide variety of projects. Being able to attach and detach attachments to suit your project's requirements allows the telehandler to be a diverse machine on the worksite. With a combination of reach, versatility and power, the telehandler is seen as an all-in-one machine for your forklift and crane requirements. Below are some of the benefits in utilising a telehandler:

Versatility
Loading Heights and Reach
Loading Capacity and Flexibility
On-Road and Off-Road Driving

Versatility

One of the major features of a telehandler is its versatility. Being able to interchange various attachments to suit your projects requirements saves you having to hire other pieces of machinery while also making your project more efficient. A telehandler is also versatile in the type of projects it can take on. From moving construction materials or roofing supplies across site to lifting heavy materials up and down to reach difficult locations, telehandlers are an ideal machine to utilise.

Loading Heights and Reach

A feature that only resides in telehandlers is its ability to lift significant loads to heights and lengths that most machines cannot reach. There are various telehandler models that can cater to your project’s requirements, whether you need a 3-metre lift for general construction or a 20-metre lift for larger project sizes.

Loading Capacity and Flexibility

Another benefit to utilising a telehandler is the boom lifts loading capacity and overall flexibility. In recent years, the loading capacity of a telehandler has significantly increased depending on the model of telehandler you hire. Some can only carry a couple hundred kilograms, while others can carry multiple tonnes of materials. In conjunction with the loading capacity, having a machine that can carry massive material loads while being flexible enough to manoeuvre around obstacles makes the telehandler a unique piece of machinery.

On-Road and Off-Road Driving

Another benefit of the telehandler is the versatility to drive it on the road while also being able to drive it off-road. This sees significant benefits as you can not only utilise a telehandler for tall building repairs, but you can also conduct agricultural maintenance on less favourable terrain. The telehandler utilises attachments which stabilise the machine, allowing it to be used for railway maintenance and powerline replacement.

Looking to Hire a Telehandler? Contact Hi-Range Crane Forks for a Free Quote!

Whether you require a telehandler to complete the removal of pallets from a cargo trailer or to move heavy materials high up, the team at Hi-Range Crane Forks are able to provide you with a telehandler hire that can complete your required project. Give Hi-Range Crane Forks a call or fill out our online enquiry form to get a free quote today!

What Are Hi-Rail Cranes?

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 12:11:53 GMT

28/04/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

All over the world, railways are becoming increasingly popular and is an important service for not only the transportation of goods and services but for people regularly commuting to and from different locations. With investments being made into railways, utilising equipment that can assist in the development and maintenance of railways is essential. Hi-Rail cranes are widely used in the construction industry due to their versatility and reliability.

What is Special About Hi-Rail Cranes?

A Hi-Rail crane is a piece of machinery that has many uses and can complete a wide array of projects within the construction industry. Hi-Rail cranes have a few features that enable them to complete various work projects. The first being that they have the capabilities to drive on the road while also run along railways. They do this by having rubber road tires but also being fitted with additional flanged steel wheels for running on rails.

Another feature is the boom arm that can lift various materials from the ground into hard to reach areas of your worksite. These features allow hi-rail cranes to assist your project requirements.

Are There Certain Projects Hi-Rail Cranes Can Complete?

With hi-rail cranes having the ability to drive on the road while also ride on railways, the scope of projects that these machines can complete is endless.

Hi-rail cranes can tackle railway projects such as:

Junction Upgrades
Railway Track Expansion
Railway Track Maintenance
Slope Stabilisation
Signal Works

Before you hire a hi-rail crane, make sure you understand your project scope and which materials you will need to lift as you may hire a crane that cannot tackle your lifting needs.

Hi-Rail Crane Forks Implements Quality Safety Measures

When dealing with a hi-rail cranes, you want to be assured that all safety measures and systems are in place before the crane undertakes your project.

Here at Hi-Range Crane Forks, each hi-rail crane complies with road-rail vehicle standards and includes the following safety features:

Boom Height Limiting
Emergency Stops
Recovery System
Data Logger

In conjunction with the above safety systems, there are rigorous testing measures that are implemented to ensure that each piece of equipment can handle various lifting capacities.

These testing measures align with the Australian Standards and includes:

Capacity System Testing
Brake Testing
Towing Capacity Testing
Stability Testing

Do You Need a Hi-Rail License?

Hi-Rail cranes can be a deadly piece of machinery if not utilised correctly which is why each operator who utilises these cranes needs to have the required tickets and qualifications. This gives operators an in-depth understanding of the machine, safety systems and how to operate the machine safely.

Contact Hi-Range Crane Forks for a Hi-Rail Crane Hire Quote Today!

Hi-Range Crane Forks are known to supply high quality hi-rail equipment to a wide variety of projects in Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong, Campbelltown, Gosford and across the Central Coast. Give Hi-Range Crane Forks a call or fill out our online enquiry form today!

What Licence Do You Need to Operate a Telehandler?

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 12:11:51 GMT

20/03/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Are you looking to apply for a job working with telehandlers? Or do you need to hire a telehandler for a project you’re working on? Knowing if you have the right qualifications to be able to operate a telehandler can be confusing, especially when you consider all the different attachments that can be used with a telehandler.

The short answer is yes, you do need a licence to operate a telehandler. However, there is a range of other licences you may also need depending on the type and location of work you are undertaking. Below, we go through a range of the necessary licences and requirements you need to be able to operate a telehandler.

What is the Main Telehandler Licence?

The main telehandler licence required is the RIIHAN309E - Conduct telescopic materials handler operations. This training qualifies someone to complete standard operations of a telehandler. It covers a number of requirements such as:

General maintenance of a telehandler
Telehandler pre-start checks
Operating a telehandler
Attaching, securing, lifting, carrying and placing materials
Selecting, removing and fitting telehandler attachments
Relocating a telehandler

With a RIIHAN309E - Conduct telescopic materials handler operations licence you are able to complete the standard tasks a telehandler can undertake. Such as transporting materials and pallets around a construction site, moving equipment from the ground level to a higher level and lifting framework into place.

What are the High-Risk Licences You Need?

When you operate a telehandler there are a number of risks that are involved. Managing these risks responsibly and safely required more than just common sense. A High Risk Work Licence is required when working with or operating a telehandler. If you want to be a telehandler operator, a telehandler rigger or dogman, or work on an elevated work platform, you will need to complete this qualification.

While each Australian state and territory has different guidelines for high risk work licences they follow the same basic principals. By having this qualification you are assuming responsibility for the safe operation of a high risk machine. By enforcing the need for this licence states and territories are protecting everyone on and around these machines.

What Other Licences Do You Need For Telehandler Operation?

Depending on the work you are doing there are situational licences, certificates and inductions you will need to obtain to operate a telehandler. This could be related to working on a mine site, major construction site, in a public area or even on railways. If you’re equipped with a current and valid ‘Conduct telescopic materials handler operations’ licence and a high risk work licence you will be able to obtain most other situational licences, certificates and inductions with training. If you don’t already have these licences you will find it difficult to obtain further certificates.

What if You Don’t Hold Any of These Licences?

Depending on what you require a telehandler to do will depend on what can be done if you don’t have a telehandler licence. If you are looking to work on telehandlers regularly, it is best you get qualified, even if you have some practical experience. It’s becoming more and more common for businesses to require certificates of competency - licences in other words - no matter your experience.

If you only need a telehandler for a short time or have no one qualified we always recommend hiring your telehandler with an operator. In the industry, it’s called wet hiring a machine and it means that you don’t need to stress about trying to get qualified, the telehandler hire supplier will ensure the telehandler operator and dogman have all the necessary certificates.

Need to Hire A Telehandler?

If you’ve chosen not to operate a telehandler but instead wet hire a telehandler, you’ve come to the right place. Here at Hi-Range Crane Forks, we have a broad selection of telehandlers for wet hire available across the greater Sydney area. To find out more about what we can do for you, get in touch with our friendly team today.

What is Hi-Rail?

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 12:11:49 GMT

10/03/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

The term hi-rail is used to describe vehicles and machinery that have been modified to operate both on conventional roads and on railways. The name hi-rail comes from the shortening of highway and railway, and a vehicle that fits the term will generally have standard rubber wheels with retractable flanged steel wheels attached. But why have machinery that can do both? Why not just have rail specific and road specific machinery?

What is a Hi-Rail Machine or Vehicle?

A hi-rail machine or vehicle can, to some extent, be any machine or vehicle fitted with retractable flanged steel wheels. However, the need for this outside of rail and train maintenance is almost non-existent. That being said, hi-rail machinery and vehicles are a range of equipment that are needed to maintain railways and trains.

Hi-rail machinery, vehicles and equipment have a varied history. They first came about in the mid 20th century when town planners and engineers attempted to create buses and trams that could operate both on tracks and on the road. While hi-rail buses and trams were a good theory they did not work in practice. The same can be said for attempts to make road transferable trains.

It wasn’t until maintenance machinery and vehicles were modified to become hi-rail that the usefulness of road and rail operation was fully realised. Now there are companies across the globe specialising in the building, modifying and operating of hi-rail machinery and vehicles. The hi-rail machinery service the demands of local, state and national rail networks, ensuring both the trains and the tracks they use are in optimal condition.

Hi-rail machinery that can often be found on rail maintenance projects are:

Hi-rail telehandlers: Hi-rail telehandlers can be equipped with jibs, elevated working platforms and other specific machinery, however, are also relatively small and light, making them great all-rounder machinery for rail maintenance.

Hi-rail trucks: Hi-rail trucks are generally medium-rigid flatbed trucks that are used to transport equipment to rail maintenance sites. This can include things such as generators, attachments for hi-rail telehandlers, and other tools for maintenance workers.

Hi-rail excavators: Hi-rail excavators are commonly used when major repairs need to be made to parts of a railway infrastructure that doesn’t have direct access to roadways. Hi-rail excavators are able to remove and reinstall tracks and sleepers with a range of purpose-built attachments.

Hi-rail dump trucks: Hi-rail dump trucks are capable of bringing large qualities of loose materials both to the maintenance site and remove debris, tree cuttings and waste quickly and efficiently. If the rail maintenance is a large scale project, hi-rail dump trucks are often deployed to keep up with the loose material demands of the project.

How A Vehicle or Machine Becomes Hi-Rail Complaint

There are two main ways a vehicle or machine becomes hi-rail compliant, they are either purpose-built or retrofitted with aftermarket attachments. There are benefits and drawbacks to both methods but what option you choose often depends on where you are in the world and what options are available to you.

In Europe, it is very common to find purpose-built hi-rail machinery and vehicles, there are a number of manufactures that cater to the demand as railways are such a vital part of how the continent connects people, resources and freight. The hi-rail machines and vehicles manufactured in Europe meet the regulations and standards set by the European Union, anyone looking to export this equipment needs to be across the differences in the European standards and their local standards.

In Australia, we deal almost solely in retrofitted hi-rail machinery and vehicles that meet Australian standards. This is mainly due to hi-rail work being a highly specialised sector. As only a handful of companies work on the railways in each state there is not as high of a demand for purpose-built hi-rail equipment. In saying that there are a number of manufacturers that cater to the need for hi-rail retrofitting, ensuring that their machinery and vehicles will fit the additional retractable steel wheels.

Need to Hire a Hi-Rail Telehandler?

At Hi-Range Crane Forks we work closely with railway operators to keep their rail lines in optimal condition. Our experience with hi-rail machinery is second to none and we pride ourselves on our ability to operate on the rails both efficiently and safely. Our wide range of hi-rail telehandlers and attachments are capable of completing a range of tasks, get in touch with the team today to learn more about how we can help you.

What is elevated work platform hire?

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 12:11:48 GMT

28/02/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

For some construction, agriculture and railway projects, you may need to access higher points of the project to either service or extended upon. This is where acquiring an elevated work platform (EWP) is essential. An EWP is as the name suggests, is a working platform that can be lifted up and down, allowing contractors to access hard to reach places or move equipment from the ground level to another level above.

Are There Safety Requirements You Need to Consider?

Before a contractor can utilise an elevated work platform, they must first undergo the relevant and required training in order to use the equipment safely. When you are hiring an EWP contractor to tackle your project, you need to ensure that the contractor has completed the applicable training. You can either ask the contractor themselves or check with the company to ensure that your project will be completed correctly. There are several aspects of an EWP that an EWP contractor will need to understand before using one; a trustworthy course will cover:

Hazard Assessment
The required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Planning the work out safely
Equipment checks before and after the project
Elevated Work Platform setup
Elevated Work Platform operation
Elevated Work Platform shutdown procedures
Procedures when an emergency occurs

Which Elevated Work Platform is Ideal for Your Project?

Now, there are several elevated work platforms that can be utilised to complete a variety of project scopes. Most EWP’s can be setup and operated by one person, which makes overall labour costs decrease, but some EWP’s can come with an assortment of extra additions. But, when considering the right EWP for your worksite, you need to know the type of work you will be doing with it. Below are the three main EWP’s:

Articulated Boom Lifts

Articulated boom lifts are one of most common lifts you can hire and have a wide variety of features that can assist your project. There are electrical and diesel-powered variations of the articulated lift, allowing them to be utilised in both indoor and outdoor settings. Diesel boom lifts are mostly used to service or replace overhead powerlines. One negative is that an articulated boom lift can only carry up to 200kg in total. Therefore, if you are looking at an articulated boom lift, they’re great if you require manoeuvrability and weight capacity isn’t an issue.

Telescopic Lifts

Telescopic lifts are different to articulated boom lifts and telescopic handlers as they extend straight out, instead of articulating - they're also being much easier to setup. Telescopic lifts are able to carry much heavier loads of materials required for your project; we’re talking tonnes not kilograms. However, the extension of the arm depends on how much the arm can carry. Therefore, if you are looking at a telescopic lift, they’re great for carrying high load capacities if terrain or obstacles are blocking your route.

Scissor Lifts

When compared to articulating and telescopic lifts, scissor lifts are pretty basic as they just manoeuvre straight up and down. Scissor lifts are perfect for lifting materials and workers to required heights due to their large platform base. Scissor lifts are also very versatile as they can be utilised indoors and outdoors, while also coming in various sizes. Therefore, if you are looking at a scissor lift, they’re great if you are looking to work vertically and on even ground.

Contact Hi-Range Crane Forks for Elevated Work Platforms!

Hi-Range Crane Forks are known to supply high quality elevated work platforms to a wide variety of projects in Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong, Campbelltown, Gosford and across the Central Coast. Give Hi-Range Crane Forks a call or fill out our online enquiry form today !

How to Choose the Best Telehandler for Your Project?

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 12:11:46 GMT

24/02/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Before you go picking any particular telehandler and thinking this one will suit your project requirements, you must first understand exactly what a telehandler is and how to use it on your project site. A telehandler (also known as a telescopic handler or teleporter forklift) is a versatile piece of machinery that can extend to reach high places on your construction or agricultural worksite.

With this in mind, you need to understand how big your project site is going to be which will determine the size you require. Due to the telehandlers design, if you overstress the telehandler by trying to lift materials heavier than the telehandler can lift, you risk the telehandler becoming unstable. In order to decide the right telehandler, here are some tips to help you decide:

Project Requirements
Consider the Attachments
Project Environment

Project Requirements

One of the first steps in deciding the right telehandler for your project is first understanding the particular project you need the telehandler for as well as the materials you are working with and the conditions you are working under. Forecasting where the operator will be picking the materials up from should also be a consideration.

When you look to hire a telehandler, you will need to examine the telehandlers load chart. This will show you the exact weight limits and heights of each telehandler, however, these charts are not as straight forward as they seem. These weights and heights are all dependent on the angle and height that the operator will lift the telehandlers boom. This is why knowing the material's weight and working conditions is essential.

Consider the Attachments

Depending on the work you will be conducting on your project site, you may require one or multiple telehandler attachments to efficiently complete your project. Due to telehandlers being compatible with different attachments, understand which attachments you require beforehand is ideal. This will allow you to hire the telehandler that can utilise all the attachments you require. Make sure you check the telehandlers load capacity as some telehandlers may not be able to lift the attachment you need.

Project Environment

When trying to select a telehandler for your project, you also need to take into consideration whether your project requirements are indoors or outdoors. This will significantly change the telehandler you require as there are several models of telehandlers. When working indoors, you would need a compact telehandler that is much lighter than outdoor telehandlers but that is also easy to manoeuvre. On the opposite side, if you are working on a large construction site or railway project, you may require a much larger telehandler due to the materials and overall size of the project.

The ground surface also plays a role in determining the telehandler for you. If you are placing a 14,000-pound telehandler on soil that is uneven or weak, the chances of the hired telehandler staying upright are very low. So, understanding the terrain is a key aspect of choosing a telehandler

Contact Hi-Range Crane Forks for a Telehandler Hire Quote!

When you are looking to hire a telehandler for your project, the team at Hi-Range Crane Forks are leaders in supplying high quality telehandlers of various sizes to suit your projects requirements. With over 30 years of experience supplying telehandlers, you can trust us to supply you with the telehandler that will complete your project in the most efficient time. Give Hi-Range Crane Forks a call or fill out our online enquiry form to discuss out telehandler hire rates.

What Telehandler Size Do You Need?

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 10:58:10 GMT

27/05/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Telehandlers are versatile machines that can be used in a number of different projects. These machines are tough and reliable, allowing them to tackle any task on any terrain. Telehandlers are essential on farms and rural worksites, but they can also undertake civil and construction project requirements.

Now you know some information about telehandlers, there are three main size categories that they fit into - light, standard and heavy. Each telehandler size comes with varying advantages and disadvantages.

We have compiled everything you need to know about each telehandler category to help you choose the right machine for your project. Read on to find out more.

Light Telehandler Size

Light telehandlers are the smallest out of the three main categories. These telehandlers have a lifting capacity of 2,000kg to 4,000kg and can reach heights between 5 to 7 metres. This allows these telehandlers to reach heights typically required for construction sites.

These telehandlers are capable of undertaking farming duties such as hay and silage handling, grain handling and general farm work. They are also capable of lifting and handling structure steel beams or roofing components, giving you a wide range of versatility on-site.

There are pros and cons to employing the use of a light telehandler. One advantage is the flexibility and ability to multi-task. This allows one telehandler to tackle a wide range of projects most forklifts cannot. A disadvantage of this small telehandler is a lack of overall visibility if the boom is mounted on the right-hand side.

Standard Telehandler Size

Standard telehandlers are the most commonly hired equipment as they can do it all. These typically range in lifting capacity from 4,000kg to 9,000kg. They can also reach heights between 8 to 10 metres, giving you the ability to reach high and hard to reach locations.

These telehandlers are ideal for cleaning up worksites by removing unnecessary materials as well as lifting building and construction materials around construction sites. They also can conduct high volume farm work such as handling food and grain. This telehandler can also complete projects when your worksite gets a little muddy or dirty.

One disadvantage of this size telehandler is that in order to undertake any lifting requirements, you need strict training and a license with an over 3-tonne lifting capacity.

Heavy Telehandler Size

Heavy telehandlers are the largest out of the three main categories. These telehandlers have a lifting capacity between 3,000kg to 9,000kg and can reach heights with a long reach boom arm of 17 metres or greater. This allows these telehandlers to execute all your lifting needs.

These telehandlers can complete all bulk handling at waste management facilities and all general lifting on construction, building and civil worksites.

The pros of a heavy telehandler is its ability to multi-task by implementing different attachments while also offering a generous reach to help load tipper trucks, high-sided trucks or hoppers. Also, these telehandlers have great ground clearance, so it can complete tasks in any environment.

A couple of disadvantages include needing extra licensing in order to operate EWP’s with a heavy telehandler, as well as very skilled operators. The long reach boom arm can also pose possible dangers with the height not being able to hold the equivalent weight.

Get in Touch with Hi-Range Crane Forks to Hire from Our Telehandler Fleet!

If you’re looking for a high-quality telehandler to hire for any working requirements you have, get in touch with Hi-Range Crane Forks today. We service and maintain our fleet to the highest standards, giving you confidence, that our equipment won’t let you down. Give us a call or fill out our online form to get a free telehandler quote.

Popular Telehandler Types and Their Benefits

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 10:58:09 GMT

15/05/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

When you need an all in one machine, you can’t go past a telehandler. They’re able to combine the uses of more than five machines in one. Telehandlers, often also called telescopic handlers, have been gaining popularity over the past few decades on construction sites and industrial parks across Australia.

The original models of telehandlers were rough around the edges, and their capabilities didn’t always make them the first thought for hiring or buying. This didn’t stop the manufacturers developing them though, they continued to build on the design and functionality of the telehandler, increasing its load capacity, boom reach and stability. Quickly a machine that was once too clunky turned into the most versatile piece of equipment on the job site.

Now, telescopic handlers have a variety of types and an ever wider variety of attachments that can be used with them. When you have a telehandler on your industrial or construction site you can move pallets, lift equipment, carry loose materials and lift workers through EWP’s. Not to mention the selection of purpose-built attachments that allow you to quickly and easily complete work specific to your industry or project.

The two main types of telehandlers you’ll find in the Australian hire and sales market are the Fixed Boom Telehandlers and the Rotating Telehandlers. Below, we break down what defines the two different types of telehandler, and the individual benefits of each.

Fixed Boom Telehandlers

Fixed boom telehandlers are the original telehandler type, they are built with a fixed cab and a telescopic boom pointing forward. Fixed boom telescopic handlers have a lower range of movement, but are often capable of handling heavier loads. This is because manufacturers are able to put all the counterweight technology in one part of the telehandler.

While they have a lower range of movement they are more than capable of carrying pallets, packages and loose materials around a work site or industrial yard. While fixed boom telehandlers are often compared to forklifts, telehandlers offer more carrying and transport options, as well as being able to lift farther and higher.

Benefits of Fixed Boom Telehandlers

The benefits of fixed boom telehandlers are their heavy-duty capabilities. When you need equipment or materials transported across rough terrain and long distances, fixed boom telescopic handlers are the pick for you. The fixed boom models are typically steadier with heavy loads and have a longer boom, making them more of an asset on major projects, where there are wide spaces and bigger tasks.

Rotating Telehandlers

Alternatively, the rotating telehandlers are a new model, developed in the late 1900s, and have become exceedingly popular in a short amount of time. Rotating telehandlers are the opposite of fixed boom telehandlers, with a cab and boom that can rotate 360 degrees, while the body of the machine is stationary. This enables a much higher range of movement for the telescopic boom making it better for tight access projects.

Rotating telehandlers are not designed to be the heavy lifters, more so the dynamic movers of the telehandler types. In saying that, their standard lift and carrying capacities are still impressive in comparison to forklifts and other machines that complete similar work. No matter if you’re on major construction, or working in an industrial yard, a rotating telehandler is equipped to handle your project demands.

Benefits of Rotating Telehandlers

The unique benefits of rotating telehandlers are their ability to move in tight spaces. Having a cab and boom that spins 360 degrees enables you to pick pallets up on your left and deposit them on your right, without having to maneuver the body of the telehandler. This is especially useful in tight areas where major or regular maneuvering will result in time wasted. While rotating telehandlers may not be able to lift the same weight and height of their fixed boom counterparts they still have impressive capabilities.

Hire a Fixed Boom or Rotating Telehandler Today!

Looking to wet hire a telehandler today? I hope our blog has helped you decide which type you need to hire! Here at Hi-Range Crane Forks, we have a broad selection of telehandlers for wet hire available across the greater Sydney area. To find out more about what we can do for you, get in touch with our friendly team today.

Working at height: selecting the right height access equipment for your project

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 10:58:08 GMT

30/04/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Whether you’re a DIY-er looking to paint your two-story house or a tradie that needs to complete maintenance by scaling a building, choosing the right access equipment is critical for the successful completion of your project. From installing a satellite dish to repairing powerlines, access equipment is utilised in the domestic, civil and commercial industries for a range of working at height jobs. There is a wide range of electric and non-electric access equipment options available on the market, and the piece you choose will depend on a range of factors including whether your job is indoors or outdoors, how many people need to access the area and what obstructions are in the way?

We’ve made it simple for you to choose the right access equipment for your job by outlining everything you need to know in this blog!

What is Access Equipment?

Access equipment is any piece of equipment that is designed to help workers reach heights safely. This can include powered machines like scissor lifts and cherry pickers or non-electrical equipment like ladders and scaffolding. Overall, access equipment is convenient, easy and most of all, safe.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Access Equipment

1. The Job You’re Taking On

The first major factor to consider when choosing access equipment is analysing the type of job you’re taking on. Things to ask yourself would be:

Is the job indoors or outdoors?
Will there be access to electricity?
How big is the workspace?
What obstructions are in the way?

Once you’ve asked yourself these simple questions, you’re one step closer to finding the right piece of access equipment for your worksite.

2. Ground Considerations

There are also some site-specific considerations you should consider when choosing access equipment. Specifically, the type of ground you will be working. If you’re in a factory and have a level working surface then really, any piece of access equipment will work. However, if your job is outside, perhaps on weak soil, then the condition of the ground may not support heavy powered access equipment and you may need to look into soil stabilisation first. The condition of the ground is an important factor to consider when choosing access equipment that will be safe for your workforce.

3. The Maximum Height You Need to Reach

Possibly one of the biggest factors you need to consider is what height you need to reach. If you hire a piece of equipment that can’t reach the height you need to then you’ve wasted valuable time and money. Be sure to know exactly what height you’re working at so you can select the right piece of access equipment to safely access the height for your job.

4. The Lifting Capacity You Require

And finally, you’ll need to know how much you need to lift in order to pick the right machine for the job. So, things to ask yourself are:

How many people need to be lifted?
What tools are they using?
How much room will be needed?

Once you’ve worked out the lifting capacity you require, you can choose access equipment with the right lifting capacity to support the weight of your job.

Types of Access Equipment to Choose From

Elevated Work Platforms (EWPs)

EWP’s are the perfect piece of access equipment for hard to reach areas as they offer extended reach and greater mobility to work around obstacles on the job site. There is a range of different EWP types including knuckle boom EWPs, truck mounted EWPs, straight boom EWPs and even hi-rail EWPs.

Scissor Lifts

Scissor lifts come in two types – electric and diesel. There are a few key differences between the two that may impact which one you decide to use for your project.
Electric scissor lifts are powered by pneumatic or hydraulic systems which are viewed as safer for operators and release zero emissions. Featuring a muffler, this piece of access equipment is perfect for indoor use. Electric scissor lifts can reach up to 12+ metres and are typically used for lighter loads.

Diesel scissor lifts are known for their mobility and feature a sturdy platform for users to work on. They’re suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, though they are typically used outdoor as they’re louder than electric scissor lifts.

Spider Lifts

Spider lifts are a lesser-known piece of access equipment that is small and compact, making it great for indoor work. With a flexible boom arm, spider lifts are also suitable for outdoor work like tree lopping and removal. Spider lifts are lightweight, good on all-terrain and can easily work around obstacles.

Let Us Help You Decide

Hi-Range Crane Forks offer a wide range of access equipment including hi-rail EWPs that are suitable for large outdoor lifting jobs. We can assist your project across New South Wales including Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong, Campbelltown, Gosford and across the Central Coast. To organise a free quote, reach out to us today by giving us a call or filling out our online form.

How to ensure safe use of telehandlers in construction

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 10:58:07 GMT

28/04/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Firstly, what is a Telehandler?

A telehandler, also known as a telescopic handler, is a lifting machine primarily used in the construction industry to carry loads up to hard to reach areas. This versatile piece of equipment combines the benefits of a crane, a forklift and an elevating work platform . Suitable for a range of applications, this multi-functional machine can lift everything from pallets and steel bars to industrial pipes, timber and concrete blocks.

If you have decided that a telehandler is the right machine for your next construction project, then there are a few steps you will need to take to ensure your workers are safe on-site while the telehandler is in use. In this blog, we have outlined some important factors you should consider and basic things you should know about safely using a telehandler on your worksite

Choosing the Right Telehandler for Your Job

The first and one of the most important steps of using a telehandler safely is picking the right telehandler for your specific job. It is crucial to understand how much you need to move on-site and comparing that to the capacity of the telehandler you are looking to hire. Ensuring that your load doesn’t exceed the telehandler’s capacity is important to avoid serious accidents such as the telehandler tipping. You will also want to ensure your telehandler has the right carriage and forks to be able to equally balance and strap your load in place.

Inspect the Telehandler Before Use

While also choosing the right telehandler for the job, it’s important to inspect the machine for any faults or damage that could become an issue on-site. When hiring a telehandler, you should always ask for service records and ensure the machine is in excellent condition ready for work.

Hiring a Skilled Operator

The most common risk when working with a telehandler is the loss of control over the machine. Therefore, is it critical that you hire an operator who is trained and ticketed for the telehandler you’re using on-site. Your operator should be familiar with the machine and have the relevant experience to feel confident carrying heavy materials across the site. Hiring a skilled operator is essential and this should be a priority for any worksite.

Ensure the Telehandler Can Access Your Site

Once you’ve found the right telehandler and operator for the job, the next safety step to consider is how the machine is going to access your worksite. If you’re working in a tight access area, then you should consider using a compact telehandler. Before the machine reaches your site, you’ll want to remove any obstacles from the telehandler’s access point to ensure it can access the site safely.

The Positioning of the Telehandler

Where you position the telehandler on-site is something you should also seriously consider. The telehandler needs to be positioned on a level surface, but if it must be on uneven terrain, then stabilisers or the hydraulic levelling function must be used. Also, when moving the telehandler into place, your operator must avoid jerky movements as this can cause your load to slip out of the forks.

Consider Overhead Obstacles

Working at a height can be quite dangerous if all safety measures aren’t considered. An important factor to consider after positioning the telehandler is ensuring there are no overhead obstacles. This includes powerlines, tree branches or other machines like booms from cranes. If there are obstacles, either move them or if they can’t be moved, reposition the telehandler.

7 Quick Safety Tips for a Telehandler Operator

Here are some important safety tips every operator should know when using a telehandler to handle heavy loads on the worksite.

If you cannot see at least 2 metres in front of you (beyond the load), it is safer to drive backwards
Always ask for assistance when moving unsurveyable loads
Always keep forks 30cm off the ground and adjust the height on uneven surfaces if necessary
Always tilt the carriage backwards
Retract the telescopic boom when moving loads across large distances
Avoid unexpected or jerky movements as this can cause the telehandler to tilt
Always drive forward going uphill

Hire A Telehandler Today

At Hi-Range Crane Forks, we understand that working at heights is dangerous. That’s why we take the necessary steps to ensure all safety measures are considered when operating telehandlers on-site. With an extensive telehandler range and skilled operators, we can assist in the successful completion of your next project. Reach out to our team for wet and dry telehandler hire throughout New South Wales including Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong, Campbelltown, Gosford and across the Central Coast. We offer competitive and affordable quotes that meet your budget.

What rail construction contractors are used for in railway works

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 09:50:10 GMT

20/06/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Compared to other kinds of construction, like road and building construction, rail construction is not often obvious, unless you are directly involved or affected by it. Despite often working under the radar, rail construction is some of the most important infrastructure work that can be done. Just like roads, rail connects cities, states and countries, moving resources, materials and peoples hundreds of kilometres a day.

The people that work on rail construction and maintenance are a special group. They’re experts in their fields and are often working in high-risk environments. To be a rain contractor you need specific gear and machines, as well as training and qualifications. More often than not the same contractors will work a range of rail projects across the country, adding to the difficulty people have with understanding the industry.

Here at Hi-Range Crane Forks, we’ve spent over 30 years working on the rails. Despite having other avenues of telehandler work, we find rail construction, maintenance and upgrades are often the most rewarding. When it comes to rail, there often aren’t other ways to get to a destination, trains can’t detour in the same way cars can, so when you’re called onto the tracks for work you know the positive impact will be instantaneous.

Who Works On Rail Construction and Maintenance

Rail construction can range in size from new lines stretching 100’s of kilometres to an extension of a current line another 10 kilometres. The number of workers you need will differ, but the amount of contractors and subcontractors is often the same. Below we break down the predominant contractors you’ll find on any rail construction.

Project Management

The major contractors on rail construction are often well-known construction companies such as CPB Contractors or Lendlease. These contractors bid for the work and use their network of minor contractors and subcontractors to ensure they have all the tools, equipment, materials and expertise required to complete the works.

They also often have expert internal teams that will be assigned to the rail project. They would manage the standard project needs as well as the additional requirements and logistics needed when working with rain lines.

Technical Services

As with any construction, you need a team of brainiacs to ensure that the work you do will last the test of time and positively affect the environment around the project. There is a wide range of technicians you can have working on rail construction, but three that will be on every project are geotechs, rail engineers and rail electricians.

Geotechs are geotechnical engineering contractors that ensure your constructions will be supported by the existing ground conditions, and provide solutions to any potential ground problems. Rail engineering technicians are responsible for the rail construction meeting all safety guidelines as well as logistical needs. Rail electricians are charged with ensuring the rail lines are safely electrified in compliance with any existing lines. They also handle all signalling and level crossing equipment.

Labourers

While we’ve grouped them in as labourers, the workers that complete much of the hard work are experts at what they do. Highly skilled rail labourers are tasked with building the rail lines. From precursory works preparing the site for construction, through to track laying and welding, rail labourers cover it all.

Hi-Rail Plant Hire

The last contractors you’ll find on every rail construction are hi-rail plant hire businesses. This is where the team at Hi-Range Crane Forks slots in. Our hi-rail plant and operators are vital to the installation, repair and replacement of overhead structures amongst other tasks. Other hi-rail plant businesses will supply excavators, trucks, tippers and a plethora of other hi-rail machinery to ensure the rail construction can progress.

For Hi-Rail Hire Choose Hi-Range
When you need telehandlers, cranes or trucks that have hi-rail capabilities, choose Hi-Range Crane Forks. We have years of experience providing hi-rail services throughout New South Wales and have a dedicated team of experienced operators. To organise a one time or ongoing hire get in touch with the team today.

How to Best Use Telehandlers

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 08:27:32 GMT

15/08/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

For you to finish a project effectively, one of the many things that you should consider is choosing the right equipment for your team. This is crucial because there are many aspects that will affect the way you utilise machinery. For instance, the telehandler is one of the best types of equipment out there and offers a range of benefits. The biggest benefit is that it will help you cut down your expenses because of how productive and effective it is on the job site.

Telehandlers are such versatile equipment, and they have many features and attachments for a wide variety of uses. You can also hire models for specific uses and even customise down to the weight capacity, steering and accessories. By taking all of this into consideration, it shows that while choosing your telehandler, it is important for you to also know the best uses for it.

The Factors that Affect Telehandler Use

The main reason why telehandlers are used so frequently is because of their multifunctionality. Telehandlers are utilised for a wide range of jobs and there are factors that influence the telehandler that you should hire. These are the different types, functionalities and accessories of a telehandler. Depending on these factors, you will know how to best use the equipment to your advantage.

The Main Types of Telehandlers

There are two types of telehandlers: fixed and rotating telehandlers. The difference is based on their movement capabilities. For fixed, you can use this equipment if you prefer to have a lower range of motion. This is also suited for lifting heavy loads. Although it has limited movement because the cab is locked in one place and cannot rotate, it still consists of many subcategories by weight and reach distance. Another benefit of using this type of telehandler is that it can provide you with more accessibility since they come in varieties such as super compact and compact models.

On the other hand, for rotating telehandlers, you will have a more extensive range of movement. This is because the cab and boom can rotate 360 degrees while the body is stationary. It is relatively easy to manoeuvre and is best utilised for positioning materials in locations that are hard to reach.

Functions of Telehandlers

Telehandlers are commonly used for industrial and construction purposes. As flexible machines, they have five hydraulic functions that are responsible for how they are properly used in several industries. The more you understand their capabilities the more you’ll know why you should utilise them for your projects:

Vertical boom lift - Through the telescopic boom, you can lift and extend it to reach great heights.
Horizontal boom extension - Without moving the equipment closer, the boom extends for height.
Fork tilt up and down - This is best used when manoeuvring objects that need high accuracy. The fork attachment tilts to angle the prongs forward or backward.
Stabilisers up and down - This is used for maintaining balance while lifting objects. They can be found on the front and back of the body.
Frame levelling - This function will make sure that the equipment will remain horizontally despite the rough terrain.

Telehandler Accessories

When it comes to telehandlers, you have a variety of attachments to choose from. With added accessories, you can easily turn your telehandler into a forklift, crane, elevated work platform or an earthmoving machine.

Some attachments include but are not limited to the following:

Bucket - You can use grapple buckets to secure heavy loads while there are also material buckets you can utilise for spreading materials or cleaning the job site.
Forks - There are fork extensions that can add length and also pallet forks that are for lifting pallets of materials.
Platforms - Use work platforms to elevate operators, crew members or materials.

Choose Us for Telehandler Hire

If you are looking for the right company that can give you high-quality services for telehandler hire, then you need to consider Hi-Range Crane Forks. We have a range of telehandlers that you can choose from. We take pride in providing our clients with only the most reliable machinery and skilled operators for all their projects. So, what are you waiting for? Contact us today at (02) 4062 8733 to get a free quote.

Why Hiring a Telehandler Will Help Your Jobsite

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 08:27:30 GMT

31/07/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Ever since telehandlers have made their debut across several countries, especially Australia, they have continued to gain prominence on many job sites. From landscapers to construction workers, telehandlers have proved to be vital machines for better efficiency and productivity. Different industries have also realised the need for telehandlers for their respective job sites.

It has also been stated that telehandler hire has become one of the fastest-growing segments in the construction equipment hire market. This is because of the flexibility that it contributes and how it performs on job sites. Manufacturers have also boasted of its capability to be used for many applications such as multi-storey construction, parking garages and residential housing, among others. This just goes to show how much telehandlers are needed for a broad array of work.

What Are Telehandlers?

When it comes to equipment rental, telehandlers are at the top of the list. Also referred to as a telescopic handler, this compact machine is a combination of the features of a forklift and a crane. It has a telescopic boom with interchangeable attachment heads. This is the reason why many deem it to be one of the most versatile machine types. Furthermore, telehandlers are also popular for what they offer, with more reach and power than a forklift, and at the same time, the same level of manoeuvrability.

The Advantages of Telehandler Hire

There are so many perks that come along with a telehandler hire. Believe it or not, most say that this equipment can do at least 85% of the work on a job site, which means that you can count on a telehandler to take on any task.

Whether you are planning to dry hire a dependable telehandler or utilise a professional operator, these are some of the reasons why you should use this equipment rental:

Accessibility

There are large telehandlers and compact telehandlers. The latter is the product line that is famous for its aspect of accessibility. Compact telehandlers allow work to be done in confined areas, and they are able to help finish jobs in a convenient manner compared to other types of machinery. This equipment hire also has an advantage over a forklift because it can lift to the same height while having bonus perks such as a four-wheel steering and a telescopic boom. When you also consider working in metro areas, telehandlers would be able to get materials into tight spots and low overhead situations.

Easy Navigation

By hiring a telehandler, you will be able to easily navigate through the most suitable roads to the roughest terrain. This is because telehandlers have the four-wheel-drive functionality, which means that you have the on-road and off-road flexibility that you can use to your advantage. That is why it is also one of the best choices for industry applications such as agriculture and construction, among others.

Lifting Heavy Loads

Another advantage of telehandlers is that they are not just known for their ability to lift materials to great heights but also for their high load capacity. They can lift materials weighing several tons, easily competing with machinery like cranes and forklifts. This is also attributed to how the telehandler is designed.

Flexibility

Its flexibility is why telehandlers are on the rise in the construction industry. They are considered one of the most versatile crane-like machines that are available for hire. With their various attachments, from scoop buckets, forklifts, grabs, winches and more, telehandlers are be capable of performing a variety of tasks on a worksite.

Hire A Telehandler Now!

Telehandlers are such useful equipment that you won’t regret hiring one for your project. At Hi-Range Crane Forks we offer telehandler hire projects for rail, building and construction. Our equipment also comes in a variety of sizes from a 6-metre reach to a 25-metre reach. So grab this chance now and contact us today at (02) 4062 8733 to get a free quote.

What is a Hi-Rail Truck?

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 08:27:28 GMT

31/07/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

A hi-rail truck is a dual-mode vehicle which can operate both on rail tracks and a conventional road. They are often converted road vehicles, switching their normal wheels with rubber tires, but fitted with additional flanged steel wheels for running on rails. Hi-rail trucks and cranes are designed to work on railways and are fitted with additional features to work seamlessly in this unique environment. Hi-rail trucks and cranes are compact enough to not pose a danger to overhead powerlines and feature wheels that are safe for rail tracks.

Uses for Hi-Rail Trucks

Hi-rail trucks are typically used for railroad right-of-way maintenance during engineering possessions of the line. They can be driven on roads to get to the site and then transform into a rail vehicle for the final journey to the worksite. This prevents the tiring manoeuvres that would be associated with a road vehicle accessing a worksite that is not near a road. Since they are normally transformed or converted road vehicles, they are typically only driven on rail tracks under an engineering possession. They are generally built to be insulated; thus, they do not activate track circuits.

The Advantages of Telehandler Hire

Whether you are planning to dry hire a dependable telehandler or utilise a professional operator, these are some of the reasons why you should use this equipment rental:

How does a Hi-Rail Truck work?

Strong Guide Wheels

The hi-rail truck has strong guide wheels which are just like train wheels, as they are designed to fit the same rails, but on hi-rail vehicles, they measure just 335mm in diameter. The total weight of the wheels and jacking equipment might range from around 300kg to 1500kg.

Insulated Guide Wheels

To avoid the hi-rail truck from generating crossing-gate operation or setting off other sensors, there is the option of insulated four guide wheels to obstruct conductivity

Medium-Duty hi-rail conversion

As required, medium and heavy-duty trucks are also fitted for hi-rail service.

Install Steering Lock

Once a hi-rail truck is on the way, the train rails take over directional control, so no routing inputs are necessary. To avoid accidental steering of any sort, a steering-wheel lock is installed.

Safety Issues

Hi-rail trucks have been involved in several serious incidents and causalities. Factors which lead to the derailment of these trucks include failed locking equipment, wheel failure, damaged rail wheel support systems, inappropriate tires, and uneven or overloading issues.

When working in a road-going model, operators have to keep in mind that the dynamics of the vehicle will be changed due to the increased weight at the front and rear. Some manufacturers have built high-quality systems that allow the rail wheels to be stored almost entirely inside the original bodywork and moving the centre of mass closer to the road axles. This improves the on-road driving performance of the vehicle.

Hi-Range Crane Forks ensures that all equipment is thoroughly checked prior to delivery to ensure these incidents don't occur.

Contact Hi-Range Crane Forks

If you’re are working on projects like junction upgrades, track expansion, slope stabilisation, signal works or other rail works, Hi-Range Crane Forks have a range of high-quality hi-rail equipment to suit your project needs. Reach out today to organise a free quote on our hi-rail trucks.

Increase Project Productivity with Telehandler Attachments

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 08:27:27 GMT

16/06/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Are you trying to find new and innovative ways to decrease unnecessary spend and increase productivity on your construction site? Then the telehandler is the machine for you. Telehandlers are often seen as single-use equipment, but what many people don’t realise is their untapped potential when used with a range of attachments. Telehandler attachments can range from elevated working platforms through to buckets and fork tynes, and a variety of other attachments.

With telehandler hire becoming increasingly popular it is wise to understand their full potential now, so you can get the most out of them when they are hired onto your construction site. In doing this you will often be able to process tasks faster and increase productivity, all without incurring excessive costs.

Complete the Work of Four Machines in One

It is often said that a telehandler is able to complete the work of four machines thanks to its unique design and lifting capabilities. With the potential to do the work of a wheel loader, forklift, small crane, and scissor lift, a telehandler is an asset to any work site. But how is a telehandler able to complete all this work? With strategic use of attachments such as:

Bucket attachment: This is very similar to the bucket you will find on a skid steer loader, and is capable of scooping, carrying and depositing hard and loose materials around the worksite.
Jib attachment: A jib attachment allows a telehandler to complete work similar to a small crane, lifting and moving awkward objects around the site and elevating them four storeys or more.
For tyne attachment: A fork tyne attachment works in the same way forklift tynes do, enabling a telehandler to move pallets and bulky materials around the work site.
Elevated work platform attachment: EWP attachments are a great investment for a telehandler owner as it removes the necessity for other access equipment to be hired onto a project that already has a telehandlers.

Aside from the four attachments mentioned above, there is a range of other attachments that can be used with a telehandler, there are even purpose-built attachments that allow telehandlers to complete unique projects. But how are these attachments making your project site more productive? By reducing the number of machines you have coming and going from site you are able to complete work when it needs to be done, not when the machine for it rocks up. This keeps your project on or ahead of schedule and reduces the costs outlaid to machine hire.

Reach New Heights Easily

When you hire a telehandler onto your project site you’re not only getting a multi use workhorse of a machine, you’re also getting the benefits of the boom. Telehandler booms can reach up to 60ft high, meaning you can access most areas of your project site from the ground, making moving materials that much easier.

Telehandlers are able to utilise all their attachments when extending to their full length. This means that you are able to get your pallets and materials as well as your people up into the air quickly and easily. All telehandlers hired through Hi-Range Crane Forks come with a telehandler load chart specific to the make and model of the machine going out to hire to ensure you maximise the potential of the telehandler.

Get Your Project’s Productivity On Track With Hi-Range

When you need a machine that can do it all look no further than a telehandler. With the attachments you need and all the mobility and range you could want the telehandler is the machine that is going to kick your project into the next gear. Get in touch with the Hi-Range Crane Forks team today to find out how you can get a telehandler with a range of attachments on your site today.

4 Mistakes People Make When Choosing a Telehandler Hire Company

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 08:27:23 GMT

20/06/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Having been in the telehandler hire business for over 30 years, we’ve seen our fair share of hiring mistakes. Some telehandler hire mistakes can’t be avoided, but there are four key mistakes that we’ve seen time and again that can easily be avoided once you know what to look out for. To ensure you pick the right telehandler hire provider every time we’ve put together this blog as a guide to avoid the most common mistakes.

Telehandlers are often seen as the bridge between access equipment and run of the mill construction equipment. This is due to the multitude of attachments that they support and the wide variety of tasks and projects telehandlers are able to complete. Because of this, however, it is easy for hirers to get confused when booking a telehandler. This can then quickly lead to mistakes that could be avoided.

Below are four mistakes we see made every week and easy ways to avoid them so both yourself and the telehandler hire company have a good experience.

1. Not Checking What the Telehandler Hire Company Does

This mistake is not unique to telehandler hire, but in fact, is seen across the construction machine hire and access equipment hire industries all the time. We often see people waste hours of their time ringing around to different telehandler hire companies when a quick check of their website would tell them if the company can complete the project or not. To save time there are three things you should have an idea about before making a call to a telehandler hire company.

Type of project (residential, commercial, construction…)
Length of project
Project requirements

From these three things you should be able to piece together the kind of telehandler hire company you need. Whether it’s a company that specifically does long term dry hire to construction, short term wet hire, purely civil work, or residential construction. This will save you time and effort and ensure that when you reach out to a telehandler hire company, you know they can help you.

2. Not Knowing What Telehandler to Hire

It’s not uncommon for the hirer to not know exactly what telehandler to hire, however, they should have somewhat of an idea of what the telehandler is required to do. The three points mentioned above will not only help you decide what telehandler hire company you should go with, but also the type of telehandler you need to hire.

Most telehandlers for hire will be ranked on their boom length, lifting capacity, or capabilities, if you’re still unsure we have another blog dedicated to the different varieties of telehandlers. By describing your project requirements in as much detail as possible to the telehandler hire company they will be able to choose the best telehandler for your project. This is why it is imperative to choose a telehandler hire company that fits your project needs.

3. Choosing the Cheapest Quote

It is common in the industry for hirers to shop around until they’ve found the cheapest quote. While this isn’t necessarily a bad thing - you need to ensure you’re not being ripped off - you also need to consider what you are giving up for the lower cost. When you are calling around to different telehandler hire companies, cost should not be the first and last question you have for them.

Ensure you ask about the quality of service the company will be providing and what conditions the telehandlers are in. This is especially important for long term or recurring hire discussions as you need to be able to rely on this company into the future. Lastly, consider what the telehandler hire company is sacrificing elsewhere in order to provide you with the lowest quote.

4. Not Reading or Signing a Hire Contract

Capping off the four mistakes we see made every week is potentially the riskiest of them all. Not reading or signing a hire contract with a telehandler hire company can create major financial and legal issues for yourself and the corresponding company. To protect yourself it is always crucial to sign a contract before you allow the telehandler hire company to start work or provide the machine. The contract should include important information such as:

Hire period
Rate per hour or project cost
Clarification on who is liable for maintenance and repairs
Any additional costs such as late feesReturn and hire extension policies

If there is anything in the contract that does not sit right with you you are within your rights to question the hire agreement and resolve the issue. All legitimate telehandler hire companies will request you sign a contract of some respect to ensure that they are also covered in the occurrence of a late return or dispute of cost. Singing a contract to hire a telehandler is the same as if you were to lease a house or a car and should be stock standard for the industry.

Hire a Telehandler from the Experts in the Industry

With 30 years of experience under our belt, the team at Hi-Range Crane Forks knows a thing or two about telehandler hire and how to do it right. With a team of expert operators and professional allocations managers, we have the skills and knowledge to get you the telehandler you need to hire. Get in touch today to find out more.

How Does Hi-Rail Equipment Work?

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 06:25:03 GMT

29/10/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Hi-rail vehicles are vehicles designed to operate both on railways and on the road. They are usually maintenance vehicles working on the railway, where the area is too tight or there are no access roads for the railway they’re working on. Hi-rail equipment is usually built for the road in the usual way, then installed with the necessary implements to operate on railway lines. Let’s discover what it takes to make a hi-rail vehicle.

The Flanged Wheels

One of the hi-rail elements installed on hi-rail trucks is flanged wheels, which are stored under the vehicle when on the road, then are folded down for use on the railway. The hi-rail vehicle is placed on the railway with the flanged wheels down. Propulsion may be determined by a hydraulic system, or the road wheels, which make contact with the track as well.

The flanged wheels are just like train wheels, only on hi-rail equipment, they’re much smaller. They drop down via hydraulic over electric systems. Because equipment built for the road has wheels that are usually wider than a train track, a hi-rail truck will be fitted with road wheels that are closer together than usual, so there isn’t a massive gap between the road wheels and flanged wheels.

The flanged wheels of hi-rail vehicles are free rolling, so when a hi-rail truck is placed on a railway track, a brake test must be performed to determine the stopping distance, dependent on weather conditions.

The Steering Lock

A steering lock is installed in the hi-rail equipment to ensure that it doesn’t steer off the track. When on the railway, hi-rail vehicles don't need to steer, as the direction it moves is entirely dependent on the track. Locking equipment can be automatic or manual.

Steering locks are essential. A malfunctioning steering lock can cause a derailment, which damages the hi-rail vehicle and can cause injury to the operator.

Insulated or Non-Insulated?

Hi-rail equipment are sometimes designed to be insulated, which means it doesn’t activate track signals. This feature is in the flanged wheels, which are designed to impede conductivity - the primary way rail vehicles activate track signals. An insulated hi-rail truck will not set off crossing-gate operation or other sensors.

However, some operators prefer their hi-rail vehicles to be non-insulated, to ensure they can be picked up on track safety systems in case of an accident.

Contact our team today for advice on whether your hi-rail equipment should be insulated or non-insulated, based on your project.

Convert or Build?

There are a lot of considerations that go into spec-ing out the chassis of a road truck for conversion into a hi-rail truck. The unit may not actually have the base to accommodate the necessary hi-rail elements. For this reason, most manufacturers prefer to build a vehicle from the ground up.

We Do Hi-Rail!

We offer a range of hi-rail vehicles for wet or dry hire, including:

Hi-rail trucks
Hi-rail EWPs
Hi-rail cranes

W e pride ourselves on our high-quality machinery, skilled operators and attention to detail. If you have any questions about our hi-rail equipment or would like a free quote, please don’t hesitate to

Capabilities of Each Telehandler Size

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 06:25:01 GMT

15/10/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

When browsing telehandler hire options, the two biggest factors to consider are what you’ll be loading, and where you’ll be loading it. Using a telehandler size that isn’t able to lift the weight you want to lift as high as you need is a wasted hire, but worse, telehandler hire that isn’t stable enough for the terrain you’re on is a safety risk. Let’s look at what each of the telehandler sizes are capable of.

(This blog is a generalisation and should not be taken as advice over that of the load chart on your machine. Always check the telehandler’s load chart to understand its capabilities.)

5-7 Metre Reach Telehandlers

Though most machines are classed based on their weight, telehandler sizes based on weight vary wildly without indication of their reach or how much they can even lift. However, classing telehandlers based on their reach indicates something you can use: how far they can reach.

Telehandlers that can reach 5-7 metres are generally called light telehandlers, as they generally weigh 4-6 tonnes. This telehandler size is best for general agricultural uses, such as hay and silage handling, grain handling and more. This is because smaller telehandler sizes can pose visibility issues, which affect work in tighter industrial settings more so than on an open farm.

Construction includes multitasking, which light telehandler hire is ideal for, as telehandlers with 5-7 metre reach are generally flexible, acting as an all-terrain forklift or a loader with a bucket. Check if the light telehandler is compatible with the fork you need to turn it into an effective construction machine.

Our 5-7 metre reach telehandler hire range includes:

Dieci Hire: Apollo 25.06
Dieci Hire: Dedalus 30.

8-18 Metre Reach Telehandlers

Telehandlers with an 8-18 metre reach are called standard telehandlers, usually they can lift 4-9 tonnes, and are suitable for both farm and industrial applications. They can perform higher volume farm work than smaller telehandler sizes like handling more fodder and grain. 8-18 metre reach telehandler hire is also useful for general handling and waste collection on construction and building sites. They can clean up and lift things around a construction site when the terrain is too muddy and wet for a traditional forklift.

Since this telehandler size usually has a lift capacity of over three tonnes, the operator is required to be trained and licenced. Consider wet hiring a telehandler with an experienced Hi-Range Crane Forks operator for your high volume farm work and light industrial tasks.

Our 8-16 metre reach telehandler hire range includes:

Dieci Hire: Icarus 40.17
Dieci Hire: Pegasus 40.17
Manitou MT 1840
Manitou Hire: MRT 15.42

19 Metres+ Reach Telehandlers

Telehandler hire of this size is generally used for heavy industrial purposes, like general lifting on work sites and bulk handling and waste management facilities. They can usually lift from 3-9 tonnes of material at a time.

The 19 metres+ reach telehandler size can handle the same weights as standard telehandlers, but is more capable of loading high-sided trucks or hoppers, and can act effectively as a small crane or an elevated work platform. 19 metre+ reach telehandlers are also more flexible with attachments such as a jib, bucket or work platform. It’s increased size gives it great ground clearance for waste management.

When using telehandler hire for heavy industrial purposes, make sure not to use it as a replacement for a wheel loader, as even this telehandler size does not have all the capabilities of a wheel loader.

When using telehandler hire as an elevated work platform, ensure you have operators with extra licencing for elevated work platform operation. Consider wet hiring a heavy telehandler size with Hi-Range Crane Forks’ experienced operators.

Our 19+ metre reach telehandler hire range includes:

Dieci Hire: Pegasus 40.25
Dieci Hire: Pegasus 50.21
Manitou Hire: MRT 21.50
Manitou Hire: MRT 25.40
Manitou Hire: MRT 24.70

Browse Our Telehandler Sizes!

Hi-Range Crane Forks supplies telehandler hire including manitou hire of all sizes across New South Wales. We pride ourselves on our high-quality machinery, skilled operators and attention to detail. If you have any questions about our light, standard or heavy telehandler hire, or would like a free quote, please don’t hesitate to contact us today at (02) 4062 8733 and our friendly team will get back to you as soon as we can.

Benefits of Hiring 360 Degree Telehandlers

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 06:24:55 GMT

25/09/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Telehandlers (AKA telescopic handlers or reach forklifts) are essentially a combination between a crane and a forklift, with a traditional forklift pallet on a crane boom. With attachments other than the traditional forklift pallet, however, telehandler hire can be used in a wide variety of applications - one example being as an elevated work platform with a man box attachment. Though telehandlers are usually hired for construction and industrial settings, other industries such as the entertainment industry have hired telehandlers for events and creative production.

Usually a limiting quality of telehandler hire is the boom’s ability to move only up and down, while an operator must drive the machine to adjust it side-to-side. 360-degree telehandlers (or ‘rotating telehandlers’) eliminate this limiting quality by being designed to access a 360-degree radius without moving the machine itself. Here are three reasons why you should choose 360-degree telehandler hire for your next project.

Rotator attachments are also available for some models of telehandlers for hire that allow 360-degree rotation where the telehandler wouldn’t otherwise be able to rotate.

They’re A 3-in-1 Machine

A telehandler is a forklift, crane and elevated work platform all in one - but a 360-degree telehandler combines the abilities of a non-360-degree telehandler with the additional abilities of a crane and elevated work platform that other telehandlers miss out on. These include rapid set-up, rotating loads, increasing visibility, easy outrigger deployment, stowage and levelling.

As a 3-in-1 machine, 360-degree telehandler hire is more cost-effective than other telehandler hire, especially on worksites with multiple lifting tasks. For these tasks, you may otherwise need to hire small mobile cranes, costing more and taking longer to set up and pack down, increasing labour cost. Other single-machine options may also limit your operators’ ability to carry out technical lifting operations on a deadline.

You Get Precision Control At Impressive Load Heights

360-degree telehandler hire usually gives operators greater control over a more powerful machine. While the load heights vary, many 360-degree telehandlers average at around 5t of load at 30m high while maintaining accurate control. Their high lifting capacity is, in some, aided by a four-point chain boom or telescopic outrigger poles.

Structures such as a pentagonal cross-section and features such as precision steering with boom lateral rigidity provide ease of control to the operator, even while performing complex tasks. Modern 360-degree telehandlers provide more control with a Load Status Monitoring System, making sure the actual weight of the load doesn’t exceed the theoretical work chart set by the operator. In the event of overload, this system will cut the machine off. Along with tilt correction systems and secure frame levelling systems, modern 360-degree telehandler control systems provide the operators and others on the job site a greater degree of safety.

They Offer High Reach & High Manoeuvrability

A 360-degree telehandler’s 360-degree reach capabilities allow operators to complete its versatile range of tasks in quick succession, carrying out different operations without having to move the machine. Operators don’t need to turn the machine around to access different areas, but in the event that they do need to move the machine - getting in and out of tight-access areas - 360-degree telehandlers are highly manoeuvrable.

360-degree telehandlers are more compact than many other telehandlers for hire, and have turning circles that allow them to turn in tight conditions. Some models’ stabilisers even have a telescopic scissor design that enables the legs to be partially instead of fully deployed to avoid obstacles.

Hi-Range Offers Them!

At Hi-Range Crane Forks, we supply two brands of 360-degree telehandlers for hire - Manitou and Dieci. Our models include:

Manitou MRT 1542
Manitou MRT 2150
Manitou MRT 2540
Manitou MRT X 2470
Dieci Pegasus 4017
Dieci Pegasus 5021
Dieci Pegasus 4025

Manitou telehandler hire is best for boom construction, operating on slopes and unstable ground, adapting to various attachments and being comfortable while you do it.

Dieci telehandler hire is best for lumping and carrying fibrous materials, working in hot and dry environments, loading across a slope and seeing what you’re doing as you do it.

We at Hi-Range Crane Forks provide 360-degree telehandler hire to New South Wales. We pride ourselves on our high-quality machinery, skilled operators and attention to detail. If you have any questions about our 360-degree telehandlers or would like a free quote, please don’t hesitate to contact us today at (02) 4062 8733 and our friendly team will get back to you as soon as we can.

Most Unique Uses for Telehandlers

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 06:24:54 GMT

17/09/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

In the construction industry, you might think of telehandler hire as solely for moving materials around on a job site. Some standard uses for telehandlers include using them as pallet forks, Elevated Work Platforms, crane jibs and more.

However, there are a few industries that use telehandlers you’d be surprised about. The entertainment industry in particular is picking them up and finding them more cost-effective, efficient and useful ways of producing new works and hosting events. Check out the new ways people are using telehandlers here.

Operating On Film Sets

Telehandler hire is used to set up film sets by bringing setpieces and larger props from loading trucks into sets where forklifts are impractical. A traditional pallet fork or goods cage are great telehandler attachment options for this purpose.

Telehandlers can also lift props from one area of the set to another and hold them up if they are to be suspended for a scene. These uses are best completed with a goods cage telehandler attachment option.

With a safety cage telehandler attachment option, a telehandler is also useful for enabling a cameraman to get a certain angle, whether it be birds-eye, angled top-down or close-up from a lower level of the set. Trying to get these angles with other equipment such as scaffolding can take days to set up and pack down

A safety cage or access platform telehandler attachment option is also useful for stunt teams on the film set, as they can use the telehandler to jump or swing from heights that would be hard to attach a traditional pulley system to - such as the open air.

A telescopic boom on a telehandler can be used to erect studio lights, lighting areas that would be hard to access to build a permanent lighting structure. Each telehandler attachment option is useful in bringing together a film set in different ways.

Setting Up For Music Festivals

Telehandler hire is used to set up different stages, mount speakers and safely move equipment for festivals. Festival organisers can hire up to hundreds of machines to set up before the festival, keep on stand-by during it and then pack down the festival once it’s over.

At festivals, telehandlers usually lift equipment into spaces where it is impractical for a forklift to go. Forklifts are generally not terrain-friendly to many festivals - especially outdoors on grass. Hiring telehandlers with grass-friendly tyres are therefore a better option.

The equipment telehandlers generally move at festivals includes generators, fences, toilets, barriers, gazebos, speakers, and tower lights. In the case of tower lights, different telehandler attachment options can either replace the need for tower lights by attaching them to a telehandler’s telescopic boom, or help set up with grab attachments and access lifts for workers putting it together.

In the summer festival season, many plant hire companies’ equipment spends almost as much time at festivals and fetes as on construction sites.This is because of the cost-effectiveness of temporary staging over permanent structures, especially for travelling festivals or festivals responsible for setting up their own equipment on a block of land, rather than using an existing festival space.

Setting Up and Clearing Motorsports Tracks

Before a racing event on a motorsport track, telehandler hire can be used to move equipment between a loading truck and the track, or from track to track. Structures that a telehandler may be required to lift include ramps, barriers, sound equipment, and winners podiums. Earthmoving bucket telehandler attachment options have also been used to transport dirt from an off-site dirt pit to a stadium off-road truck course.

During the race itself or between races, telehandlers are usually used to lift crashed cars, bikes and vehicle parts off the track safely and efficiently, so no other driver crashes into them.

Telehandlers’ versatility on terrain is also useful for this purpose, as depending on the track they could be operating on dirt, grass or tarmac.

Hire a Telehandler Today

Whether you need to hire a telehandler to film your next masterpiece, put on a show or keep racers safe, we’ve got the telehandlers for you! Hi-Range has a fleet of telehandlers suitable for use on all terrains, including rail. Contact us today at (02) 4062 8733 to hire a telehandler for any standard or unique job you have!

Benefits of MEWPs

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 06:24:53 GMT

25/08/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs) are manoeuvrable and compact machines used to lift workers into spaces they otherwise would not be able to reach. MEWP hire is used on both indoor and outdoor worksites to eliminate the risk of accidents associated with climbing, lifting and even falling on the job. The need to keep your workers safe while accessing high areas is common between many different sectors, making MEWP hire versatile and universally needed. Workers cleaning windows, moving boxes and building infrastructure all need access to Mobile-Elevated Work Platforms.

The most common types of MEWPs include scissor lifts, boom lifts, access platforms and aerial platforms.

MEWPs are Flexible

As we said, MEWP hire is universally needed and supports a variety of industry sectors. But Mobile-Elevated Work Platforms are also flexible between different tasks on the same project. MEWPs can be easily adjusted for different heights, and some are even designed for use on rough terrains. They’re easily set up and packed down, while also being compact and easily manoeuvred into tight areas before extending.

MEWPs that are mounted as part of a truck are the easiest to transport, however, larger stand-alone MEWPs can also be transported on a flatbed or trailer. Some MEWP models can even move while the platform is still raised, which is beneficial when completing jobs in multiple locations across a project site.

Spider-lift Mobile Elevated Work Platforms are the best for tight spaces and building interiors, as they’re lightweight and have low ground pressure. They don’t damage floors or pathways and fit through standard doorways and gates.

All-terrain vehicles with attached Mobile-Elevated Work Platforms, four-wheel drive and four-wheel steering options, are best for jobs in extreme conditions. Their levelling controls make it possible to operate, even on heavily sloped ground.

MEWPs Make Your Workspace More Accessible

Mobile Elevated Work Platforms can be easily adjusted for different heights and, depending on the machine, can get into just about any space. This makes your worksite more accessible by increasing your workers’ reach, whether you’re in a warehouse, on a construction project or at an event. When looking for MEWP hire, consider the chassis size, it’s manoeuvrability, turning radius, and steering. Don’t forget to also check the height you need the elevated work platform to reach.

Jobsites with permanent obstacles such as water, ditches or structures especially should be utilising MEWP hire to enable their workers to work at height around the fixed obstacles. If working on sites with the need for both horizontal and vertical reach, consider hiring a MEWP with up-and-over ability – they position the operator’s basket around overhead obstacles in constricted work environments. Articulate or telescopic booms are ideal for this.

Scissor lifts make worksites with narrow paths and high capacity loads more accessible. They lift from the ground straight to vertical heights.

They Increase Safety

Mobile Elevated Work Platforms are easy to set up, pack down and operate. They can lift heavy tools or materials, specialist equipment, breakables and workers safety and quickly. Ensure to follow the instructions provided or undergo training, and familiarise yourself with your MEWP’s safety features and emergency plans when you’re using it.

Industry standards ensure Mobile Elevated Work Platforms are manufactured and maintained correctly, so they’re not only easy to operate but reliable too. Here at Hi-Range we provide robust machines and maintain them regularly, so you can be sure you’re using a safe machine.

In order to operate access equipment workers are required by law to undertake training. As a business, providing this training is beneficial, but our operators at Hi-Range are capable and available for wet hire as well.

They’re Cost-Effective

Hiring MEWPs for hard-to-access jobs can save you money by increasing productivity across the worksite. Mobile Elevated Work Platforms reduce time spent on conducting risk assessments and setting up scaffolding and other equipment.

Hiring a Mobile Elevated Work Platform also means you won’t have to hire as many machines or hire for as long as you would with other equipment. MEWPs can also move equipment that might be costly to move with traditional lifting methods. Since they’re so easy to use, less staff have to be onsite to operate them, reducing labour costs as well.

Hi-Range has a range of Mobile Elevated Work Platforms coming soon!

Reach out to us today to discover why Hi-Range is the right company for your next MEWP hire. We provide high quality wet and dry hire services and a range of equipment to choose from. We pride ourselves on providing the most reliable machinery and skilled operators for your projects across the greater Sydney region. Contact us today at (02) 4062 8733 to get a free quote.

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Telehandlers may seem simple to use, but the skills needed to operate them depend on the complexities of the machine attachments and its heavy lifting power. While a ‘telehandler licence’ doesn’t exist, you may need a High-Risk Work (HRW) Licence or elevated platform licence to operate a telehandler. You need one of these licences to operate a telehandler when:

It’s fitted with a boom or jib and hook block
It’s fitted with a personnel box attached directly to the main boom and extended 11m or more

You don’t need a licence to use a telehandler if it’s fitted with attachments like buckets or forks.

How Long Does a Telehandler Licence Last?

Both licences required to operate a telehandler fitted with a boom/ jib and hook block, or with an 11m+ extending personnel box, last 5 years.

You can renew your HRW licence after 5 years by applying to High Risk Work Licence Online Services with your licence number, renewal notice number, and all other relevant documentation. Your HRW licence is still valid during the renewal process, which you can use the renewal confirmation and receipt as proof of. After licence renewal, you have to pay the licence fee, which differs from state to state.

An Elevated Work Platform licence can also be called an EWP Licence or Yellow Card. To renew an EWP licence, you must complete a refresher training programme. The idea is your knowledge should be as current as your EWP licence.

What Does a Telehandler Licence Cover?

The licences you need to operate a telehandler cover all applications of telehandlers, including when fitted with a boom/jib and hook block or a personnel box extending 11m+.

An HRW Licence (WP class) allows the holder to operate a telehandler when the boom is 11m long or more. To obtain a WP class High-Risk Work licence, you need an EWP licence. HRW licences come in different classes allowing for the completion of different types of high-risk work. If you have an HRW licence of a different class, you will still need to undergo the WP class training, then apply within 60 days of the date of your notice of satisfactory assessment for that class. Once accepted, you can work in multiple occupations on a single licence.

An Elevated Work Platform Licence gained from the course ‘TLILIC0005 – Licence to Operate a Boom-type Elevated Platform (boom length 11m or more)’ allows the holder to operate a telehandler with a boom of over 11m.

What Are the Requirements of a Telehandler Licence?

To undertake either of the courses needed to legally operate a telehandler in high-risk situations, you need to:

Be at least 18 years old
Provide more than 2 forms of identification
Wear the appropriate PPE during training
Be able to read and write basic English
Pass a language, literacy and numeracy assessment

What Other Licences Do I Need?

The other requirements for operating a telehandler depend on the job you’re completing. When operating a slewing-type telehandler, you’ll need a WorkSafe C2 licence or higher and when driving a telehandler on public roads you’ll also need a current driver’s licence. You do not legally need a Telehandler Gold Card to operate a telehandler, but it does formally prove competence, which telehandler hire companies often require if you’re dry hiring to operate yourself.

Choose Us for Telehandler Hire

Searching for a high-quality telehandler hire service? Look no further! Hi-Range has a range of telehandlers to choose from. We take pride in providing our clients with the most reliable machinery and skilled operators for any project in the greater Sydney region. Contact us today at (02) 4062 8733 to get a free quote.

How telehandlers are used in construction

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 04:53:12 GMT

8/12/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Telehandler hire makes a valuable contribution to the construction process by unloading materials from delivery vehicles, transporting them around construction sites and placing them at height, or reach. Telehandlers can be fitted with a wide range of attachments including buckets, skips, work platforms, and crane jibs.

Construction works

Telehandler hire works as a replacement for hiring forklift trucks, aerial platforms, and cranes during the construction of new buildings, including roofs and coverings, even in slopes or tight spaces.

With their telescopic booms, telehandlers can reach higher and further than forklift trucks, with greater stability on rough terrain - so they can transport goods and materials up to builders working at heights, or up to other machines as they are working. Attaching a bucket can enable telehandlers to lift aggregates including gravel, earth, and bricks, to builders.

With a man basket, telehandlers can lift the builders themselves where scaffolding is unnecessarily expensive, such as on construction projects of moderate height. They outperform aerial platforms used for this instability, load capacity, and width.

A lifting hook or winch attachment can enable telehandler operators to perform the work of a crane in tight access areas where a crane cannot reach. Telehandlers can lift and place pre-cast materials such as roofs and coverings onto buildings under construction.

Property renovations

Telehandlers’ two steering axles for compactness and manoeuvrability makes them the ideal machine for renovations, which often take place on either delicate or tight-access structures. They can move large loads in narrow spaces, so perform well on major renovations on parts of buildings and courtyards. Discover some of the most compact and manoeuvrable telehandlers for hire in our 360 Degree Telehandlers blog .

Hi-Range Crane Forks’ range of smart telehandlers for hire with technologies designed for precision can handle work on delicate structures such as historical buildings and heritage sites being renovated for structural upgrades and support.

Telehandler hire is ideal for a range of renovation tasks, including:

Light demolition work, with a grab attachment;
The structural building, including placing building materials, and;
Transporting building materials on site.

Assembly of large structures

As telehandler hire is traditionally used for their lifting capabilities, they are the ideal machine for the assembly of structures with pre-made and pre-cast elements. These include temporary structures such as stands for events and funfairs, and stages for concerts, which we discussed in our Most Unique Uses for Telehandlers blog.

Hi-Range Crane Forks has also been involved in the assembly of permanent structures including large renewable energy plants such as photovoltaic panel fields and wind farms. Wind farms, in particular, need precise lifting machines for the delicate and difficult handling of wind turbine blades, which requires hooking and lifting them with a lifting hook or winch attachment at their centre of gravity from storage to their place on site. Wind farms and solar farms also often require assembling on hills and steep slopes, which a telehandler hire is ideal for.

Which telehandler should you hire?

Telehandlers are a versatile and capable machine for a wide variety of projects. Within the telehandler hire market, there are telehandlers more ideal for certain projects than others.

To learn more about making your telehandler hire decisions based on size, read our blog on the Capabilities of Each Telehandler Size.

Hire a telehandler from Hi-Range Crane Forks

Discover what our range of telehandlers for hire can do for your project by calling us today. We pride ourselves on our high-quality machinery - including our telehandlers - skilled operators, and attention to detail.

If you have any questions about our telehandlers for hire or would like a free quote, please do not hesitate to contact us today at (02) 4062 8733 and our friendly team will get back to you as soon as we can.

Our Work on Sydney Metro Rouse Hill Trains Facility

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 04:53:11 GMT

26/11/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Building a Better Sydney Metro Network
The Sydney Metro project is Australia’s biggest transport project, aiming to build 31 metro railway stations and a 66km standalone metro railway system to deliver a train to the Sydney city centre every two minutes both ways by 2024. After the completion of the Northwest stage of the project in May 2019, a Northern Connection is being created to connect the Northwest section to the Metro City and Southwest, including an improved Rouse Hill Sydney Metro Trains Facility. Hi-Range provided telehandler hire to contractors Systems Connect, a partnership between CPB Contractors and UGL Engineering.

Find out more about what we’re doing for the Metro City and Southwest stage here.

Rouse Hill Trains Facility

The Sydney Metro Trains Facility (SMTF) at Rouse Hill was built as part of the Sydney Metro Northwest sub-project, which was completed in May 2019, providing capacity for 22 trains. The Rouse Hill trains facility provides space and infrastructure for train stabling and maintenance, as well as accommodation for the Sydney Metro project’s growing fleet of driverless trains. The administration building houses the Sydney Metro project’s Operations Control Centre, where the fully-automated system is operated from.

The Metro City and Southwest stage of the Sydney Metro project includes an expansion of Rouse Hill’s train facility, to have space for an extra 37 trains.

Rouse Hill During the Sydney Metro Project

Rouse Hill has continued to be operational during its expansion in the Metro City and Southwest stage of the Sydney Metro project, which requires:

The installation of five kilometres of tracks and overhead wires
The installation of over 10 kilometres of high and low voltage electrical cabling
The installation of rail systems, lifting beams and access platforms
The expansion of the existing maintenance building, including the fitting out of new sheds and rooms
The installation of a new gantry crane
The modification of some existing roads

Hi-Range Crane Forks has provided telehandler hire and telehandler operators to the Rouse Hill expansion project, which have mostly aided in the installation of overhead wires and rail systems.

So far, over three kilometres of track and 6,500 sleepers have been installed, and over 12,000 tonnes of rock ballast have been delivered to the approximately 60 labourers on the ground at Rouse Hill.

What Still Needs to be Done

The Sydney Metro Train Facility at Rouse Hill is part of the Metro City and Southwest stage of the Sydney Metro project, which is set to be completed in 2024. As a sub-project, the Rouse Hill train facility includes shorter-term goals for the next few weeks rather than the next few years, including:

Fit-out of the maintenance shed
Construction of railway switch
Installation of new rail track and sleepers
Installation of overhead cables
Installation of temporary fencing and site equipment
Completion and testing stabling rail tracks
Internal fit-out of the administration building
Removal of excess water from the work site
Installation of underground cables
Installation and testing new signalling equipment and cables
Expansion and fit-out of the Operations Control Centre (OCC)
Installation of back-up power supplies at OCC

As part of the Metro City and Southwest stage of the Sydney Metro project, a supplementary train facility will also be built at Marrickville for overnight stabling of trains and light maintenance activities.

We can do the same for your project!

Now that you know what we can provide in telehandler services to the Sydney Metro project, discover what we can do for your project by calling us today. We pride ourselves on our high-quality telehandlers for hire , skilled operators and attention to detail.

If you have any questions about our hi-rail equipment or would like a free quote, please don’t hesitate to contact us today at (02) 4062 8733 and our friendly team will get back to you as soon as we can.

Our Work on Line-Wide Works During The Sydney Metro Project

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 04:53:09 GMT

16/11/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Creating a New Metro Line for Sydney
The Sydney Metro project is Australia’s biggest transport project, aiming to build 31 metro railway stations and a 66km standalone metro railway system to deliver a train to the Sydney city centre every two minutes both ways by 2024.

The Line-Wide Works

The Sydney Metro project includes sub-projects, which aim to get parts of the new metro line in Sydney operational quickly. One sub-project is the line-wide works on the Northern Connection (AKA Metro City and Southwest), which aims to connect the currently operational Sydney Northwest new metro line with the CBD and beyond into Bankstown.

The Sydney Metro’s line-wide works project was awarded at $1.4 billion to Systems Connect, a partnership between CPB Contractors and UGL Engineering, who are tasked with constructing all the permanent systems, services and infrastructure for the Sydney Metro, including metro rail track, power, communications, signalling systems, and more.

The package provided by Systems Connect to the Sydney Metro project includes:

Connecting 31 kilometres of underground railway track, to be laid in twin tunnels from Chatswood to Sydenham
Connecting 31 kilometres of overhead power equipment and 11 new substations to power the Metro from Chatswood to Bankstown
Expanding the Sydney Metro Trains Facility at Rouse Hill to accommodate 37 new eight car Sydney Metro trains
Constructing the Sydney Metro Trains Facility South at Marrickville to provide stabling for 16 six-car Sydney metro trains
Installing tunnel equipment such as ventilation, draining and emergency evacuation and monitoring equipment
Fitting out the tunnel ventilation and high voltage equipment in the seven new underground metro stations
Fitting out the tunnels and underground stations with rail track, overhead wiring, high voltage power systems, tunnel ventilation, fire suppression systems and tunnel safety services
Delivering bulk power feeds to meet the Sydney Metro City and Southwest high voltage reticulation and traction power requirements
Delivering new train stabling and maintenance facilities at Sydenham
The open northern dive works to tie Sydney Metro City and Southwest into the Sydney Metro Northwest at Chatswood
Providing high voltage reticulation and traction power systems for the Southwest corridor from Sydenham to Bankstown

Hi-Range Crane Forks has provided CPB Contractors and UGL Engineering with our telehandlers for hire and telehandler operators, which mostly aided in connecting power to the new metro line in Sydney.

What’s Already Been Done

The Northwest section of the new metro line in Sydney was opened to the public in May 2019. The City and Southwest section line-wide works are operating in the existing T1 North Shoreline railway corridor. So far, Systems Connect has completed:

Station excavation and structural works
Waterproofing and concrete lining at Pitt St Station
Services facility excavation and structural works
Rail delivery
The creation of twin metro tunnels at Chatswood
Excavation for the foundations of a ramp to the twin metro tunnels at Chatswood

What’s Still To Come

Systems Connect and the NSW Government predict the Metro City and Southwest (or Northern Connection) section of the Sydney Metro project will be completed in 2024. In the next four years, they plan to:

Extend the Northwest line beneath Sydney Harbour
Build 15km of greenfield line, including 7 new stations, between Chatswood and Sydenham
Upgrade 13km of existing Sydenham-Bankstown railway line and 11 existing Sydenham-Bankstown stations
Expand the Sydney Metro Trains facility at Rouse Hill
Build a new depot at Sydenham

We can do the same for your project!

Now that you’ve seen what we’re doing for the new metro line in Sydney, discover what we can do for your project by calling us today. We pride ourselves on our high-quality machinery - including our telehandlers for hire - skilled operators and attention to detail.

Advantages of crane and telehandler hire in Sydney

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 03:10:48 GMT

08/10/2021

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Cranes and telehandlers are versatile machines ideal for haulage and heavy lifting in the construction and shipping industries. Crane hire and telehandler hire ensures the quick movement of materials and machinery with the accuracy and safety of load positioning. Hiring a crane or telehandler instead of labourers for the placement of pipes, building materials, railroad tracks , shipping containers, mobile homes, and more can increase productivity, safety, and the quality of work while reducing costs.

On Sydney construction sites, which are expensive to manage and difficult to access, crane hire and telehandler hire is especially important. Cranes and telehandlers can help other machines navigate tight-access construction sites by transporting materials in ways that avoid obstacles on the ground. By moving materials vertically as well as horizontally, cranes and telehandlers play a crucial role in lifting materials that need to be placed above ground level, preventing accidents otherwise caused by navigating obstacles on the ground, and saving time otherwise spent navigating obstacles on the ground.

Crane and telehandler hire provides flexibility

Hiring a crane or telehandler instead of buying one allows a construction company greater flexibility while reducing costs. Where buying a crane or telehandler would sink a significant amount of money into a machine that may not be applicable for every job, hiring a crane or telehandler is cheaper, leaving construction companies freer to hire a crane or telehandler again for a different job. Different cranes and telehandlers are ideal for different jobs, after all, and if a construction company seeks to complete a variety of jobs, they need enough in their wallet to gain access to a variety of cranes and telehandlers. That comes with crane hire and telehandler hire, not a purchase.

Flexibility is vital to Sydney construction sites because of their differences in access and terrain. Sydney construction sites vary from site to site; where one site may require a crane or telehandler suited to steep slopes and wet conditions, another may require a crane or telehandler ideal for avoiding power lines. In Sydney, spending all your money on one crane or telehandler means forfeiting a large number of jobs that don’t suit your crane or telehandler’s specifications. Hiring, on the other hand, means gaining the flexibility to accept all the job requests that come through.

Crane and telehandler hire is trustworthy

Crane hire and telehandler hire companies offer consultation services on what crane or telehandler is best for your project - taking out the purchasing guessing game of which crane or telehandler will perform on the widest range of jobs… or whether Jim on Gumtree is scamming you.

Australian construction companies often suffer heavy equipment purchasing scams by fake websites based in Sydney offering fake discounts on heavy machinery. Crane hire and telehandler hire, as opposed to purchase, requires human interaction in the form of consultation, operator hire, and more, that prevents scammers from going to crane hire or telehandler hire as a scam strategy. Consulting a crane hire or telehandler hire company rather than a heavy equipment sale site is the easiest way to ensure that what you pay for is what you actually get.

Crane and telehandler hire reduces costs

Crane hire and telehandler hire reduce costs not only in the crane’s initial purchase but in the crane’s operation and maintenance costs. Buying a crane or telehandler means employing and training operators, paying for maintenance and repairs, buying spare parts, and paying to store the machine. Cranes and telehandlers for hire are already maintained from a company that stores them, and their extra parts, for you. If the crane or telehandler brakes down, the hire company organises repairs. And crane hire companies like Hi-Range Crane Forks can also provide a crane wet hire service, where we provide a trained and accredited crane operator to your project.

Cost reduction is an essential strategy on Sydney construction sites. Sydney is the 19th most expensive city in the world to build in, just behind Paris, and ahead of Singapore and Berlin, according to a report by consultancy company Arcadis. With high costs and high taxes on importing materials, Sydney construction companies are looking for ways to cut costs without sacrificing site safety, site productivity, and the quality of their work. Crane hire and telehandler hire, over purchase, is the best way to do this.

We supply telehandlers for hire!

We supply telehandlers for hire with crane attachments and with or without expert Hi-Range Crane Forks operators, all over Sydney and wider New South Wales. We pride ourselves on our wide range of affordable machinery and reliable consultation and hire services.

4 reasons why a professional should handle your crane

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 03:10:47 GMT

18/01/2021

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Crane hire is an important part of construction projects, especially for contractors who don’t have cranes in their fleet or need a boost to their range of cranes for a specific job. But sourcing a crane isn’t the whole story - hirers also need someone to operate it.

Hi-Range Crane Forks offers hi-rail cranes for hire with expert operators and railway services with our fleet of cranes suitable for work with Tier 1 companies. Find out more about why hi-rail crane hire would work for you here.

Reason 1 - Legalities

Not everyone can operate every crane. For most cranes on most jobs, you will need a High-Risk Work (HRW) licence to hire a crane.
But that doesn’t mean anyone with any HRW licence can hire a crane. If you have one type of HRW licence, you may have to consider the type of crane you are using and what you are using it for to verify if a different licence is required.

Hire companies like Hi-Range Crane Forks have an in-depth understanding of what licences are required for certain tasks, and can offer a professional in that field with all the required accreditations.

Some cranes that you will need a HRW licence of some kind for include:

Bridge and gantry cranes
Vehicle loading cranes
Vessel-mounted cranes
Tower cranes
Mobile cranes

Hi-rail cranes are a type of mobile crane, which in many situations requires an operator to have a HRW licence.

Reason 2 - Safety

Without the Work Health and Safety knowledge of professionals, including extensive experience in properly setting up the crane, checking the ground stability and level, adjusting to weather conditions, monitoring the crane, and constantly re-calculating the crane’s actual lift capacity based on its level of wear-and-tear, even properly accredited operators who don’t handle cranes for a living could easily pose a safety risk. Even experienced operators who haven’t worked with the particular model of crane they are looking to hire are more likely to make devastating mistakes than the operators already assigned to that crane by the hire company.

Hi-Range Crane Forks recommends crane operators that have not used hi-rail cranes hire a crane operator from the hire company to do so.

Reason 3 - Bang for your buck

Get this: when you hire a crane operator, you’re not just hiring a crane operator. A professional crane operator from your hire company will also:

Rig the crane
Set up the boom and cabling
Prepare the hoist
Secure a mobile crane
Block and level the crane
Test the crane and other equipment
Verify that the right attachments are installed correctly

A Hi-Range Crane Forks operator will complete all the specialised hi-rail tasks needed for the set-up, pack-down, operation, and safety requirements of a hi-rail crane.

If your crane is stationed on a job site for a significant period of time, it will need regular maintenance and upkeep. Where a hire company may charge extra for these works on a dry hire project, smaller adjustments to the machine, including small troubleshooting solutions, can sometimes be performed by the operator, hassle-free.

Reason 4 - Getting the right crane

Although hire companies can always guide you on the equipment you may need based on the details of your project, having an operator from that company on the ground ensures the hire company knows more about the project than they would from a phone call, and thus they can better pair you with a crane. Hiring a crane that best suits your project ensures safer, more efficient, and higher quality work, no matter who is operating it.

Safe Work Australia recommends “Before you choose a crane, you should discuss your workplace needs with your suppliers”. Some of Safe Work’s considerations of crane hire include:

How long you’ll have it for
How often you’ll use it
What conditions you’ll use it in (including the conditions where a hi-rail crane is needed)
The maximum load the crane can bear

These are very general questions, so having a professional operator from the hire company to look more closely at your actual needs goes a long way.

Wet hire a hi-rail crane from Hi-Range Crane Forks today

We supply hi-rail cranes for hire with expert Hi-Range Crane Forks operators all over New South Wales. We pride ourselves on our high-quality machinery, skilled operators, and attention to detail.

Why hire hi-rail cranes with us?

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 03:10:46 GMT

18/01/2021

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Hi-rail cranes are an essential addition to a job site where heavy lifting is required on, for, or near a railway line. On rail works including railway construction, railway renovation, re-railing, and railway maintenance, hi-rail cranes can transport machinery, materials, and workers to and from a tight-access job site, or around a job site where machinery, materials, and workers would not be able to reach without lifting equipment.

Hi-Range Crane Forks offers a wide range of well-built and well-maintained hi-rail cranes for hire. Hiring hi-rail cranes have proven a cost-effective solution to railway work when clients do not have hi-rail cranes of their own. Where buying a hi-rail crane risks forking out cash for a machine that businesses might not use enough to justify the purchase, hiring a hi-rail crane ensures you pay for what you use, hire the right crane according to the hire company’s advice, and get full access to wet hire options.

Hi-rail cranes are a type of mobile crane, which offers benefits over static cranes including power, compactness, ease of setting up and use safety, and reduced pollution. A quality mobile crane gets the job done easily, quickly, and safely, even in tight-access areas.

Hiring hi-rail cranes over traditional mobile cranes is a matter of even more access. Hi-rail equipment has the tyres for traditional road use, as well as rail-specialised wheels to operate where there is no road nearby - such as on a mine railroad - or where there is no space by the railway. Learn more about how hi-rail equipment works here. The versatility of places where hi-rail cranes can be used makes them a no-brainer hire over traditional mobile cranes when working on rail projects.

We offer quality hi-rail crane models including:

Manitou MRT 2150
Manitou MRT 2540
Manitou MRT 2470
Dieci Pegasus 4025
Dieci Pegasus 5021
Dieci Pegasus 4017

We use Manitou and Dieci products because they put safety first, they are technologically innovative, and their state-of-the-art features allow for more efficient, accurate work.

Though a diverse fleet is an important part of being a quality hi-rail crane hire company, Hi-Range Crane Forks embodies other valuable attributes as well. We have over 30 years of experience in offering hi-rail equipment and rail services and are experienced in serving Tier 1 companies and government bodies on complete junction remodelling and signal upgrade projects. Two of our most recent projects include the line-wide works for Sydney Metro and the Sydenham Station Junction Metro.

It’s not just the experience of Hi-Range as a company, either. Our individual hi-rail crane operators are experts, doing quality work with the safety of other workers, clients, and the general public in mind.

We bring our utmost to every project, whether for a Tier 1 company or a local small business - so you can be sure our hi-rail cranes are meticulously maintained and serviced to perform at their best, 100% of the time, without bringing up the price.

Work with us

Experience firsthand how Hi-Range Crane Forks can improve the quality and efficiency of your project by hiring a hi-rail crane with us today. We pride ourselves on our well-built and well-maintained hi-rail cranes, skilled hi-rail crane operators, and attention to detail.

If you would like a free quote or more advice on hi-rail crane hire, just call us on (02) 4062 8733 or visit our Contact Us page, and our friendly team will get back to you as soon as possible.

How important is hi-rail equipment to the NSW rail industry?

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 03:10:44 GMT

17/12/2020

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Australia's rail system is critical to the nation's economy. Without rail, Australia would face significant logistical and congestion challenges, a hit to freight transport, and economic detriment.

Hi-rail equipment for the growing rail industry in Sydney and wider New South Wales will not only allow Australians to manage the challenges posed by population and economic growth, but will allow Australians to develop a better-integrated and prosperous society.

Why New South Wales needs more railway construction and railway upgrades

Rail connects people who cannot drive, cannot afford a car, do not live close to a bus stop, or prefer not to drive for any reason, to jobs, education, health services, and amenities. Living in the worst Australian city for congestion, Sydney residents are increasingly suffering the consequences of driving. With 130,000 new vehicles registered in New South Wales per year, this is predicted to only worsen.

As a result, Sydney residents are increasingly taking the train in a switch that benefits the economy. In Sydney, every road journey replaced by rail saves approximately $10.64 in congestion, accidents, and carbon costs.

But, as it is, New South Wales rail infrastructure does not support this switch. The Sydney heavy railway system is already reaching capacity in terms of how many trains it can sustain.

With Sydney residents’ increasing urge to switch from road to rail transport, the economic benefits of that switch, and the limited capacity of the Sydney railway system, constructing new railways and performing railway upgrades to increase capacity is paramount.

The railway construction and railway upgrades New South Wales needs

The Australian Railway Association has released a number of reports detailing not only the importance of New South Wales’ railway system but of making specific railway upgrades and improvements to it. They recommend constructing new railways, upgrading railways, and implementing new rail policy approaches between states, to improve New South Wales railways in the future.

Their recommendations for constructing new railways include:

Underground railways through tunnels
Building platforms and maintenance sheds for longer trains
Building a rail that can withstand faster trains

Their recommendations for existing railway upgrades include:

Upgrading old railways to double-tracked railways
Improving signalling and rail communications infrastructure, especially when incorporating driverless trains
Scheduling more long-term beneficial, mundane railway upgrades, over visible short-term beneficial projects

Their policy recommendations include:

Using private companies for new build and railway upgrade projects
Requiring major projects to consider local companies for new railway construction and railway upgrades

Where hi-rail equipment comes in

Where new railway construction and railway upgrades are needed, hi-rail equipment is needed. Hi-Range Crane forks have provided and continue to provide hi-rail services to New South Wales projects that the Australian Railway Association has deemed vital to improving movement in our state.

Most recently, Hi-Range provided telehandlers for wet hire to Systems Connect on the Sydney Metro line-wide works and the Rouse Hill Trains Facility expansion.

The line-wide works include constructing new rail through a tunnel with a modern track, upgrading rail, and installing new and upgrading old signalling and communications systems. Hi-Range Crane Forks’ telehandler services made electrical wiring, track signalling, and railway communications on the Sydney Metro line-wide works possible. Read more about the line-wide works in our previous blog.

Hi-Range also made electrical wiring, track signalling, and railway communications on the Rouse Hill Trains Facility expansion possible. The Rouse Hill Trains Facility expansion includes laying more track, constructing sheds for train maintenance and storage, signalling, and communications systems, as well as increasing New South Wales’ train capacity by an extra 37 trains. If this does not sound like much, one train can replace 880 cars on the road during peak hour, or 110 haulage trucks. Read more about our work on the Rouse Hill Trains Facility expansion in our previous blog.

Our rail services are not limited to just plant supply to electrical, signalling, and communications work on railway lines, but junction upgrades and remodelling, embankment stabilisation, and upgrades. We can also load and unload scaffolding and sandblasting equipment, provide height access for rock bolting and rock drilling, and contribute to redundant pole removal. These jobs are vital in new rail construction and rail upgrades - all performed by a local company bridging the gap between the government and commercial sectors for the benefit of New South Wales’ economy.

Hire hi-rail equipment from Hi-Range Crane Forks

Hi-Range Crane Forks supplies vital hi-rail equipment for hire to New South Wales rail works improving the state’s all-important railway system. Contact us today to make a booking.

The benefits of hi-rail truck hire with Hi-Range Crane Forks

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 02:45:06 GMT

19/10/2021

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Due to the steady growth of Australia’s population, the railway industry has experienced an increase in infrastructure development and funding in recent years. Railway construction and railway maintenance projects are becoming more commonplace. Many railway projects require specialised equipment, such as hi-rail trucks, so they can be completed with minimal disruption to rail services. But what is a hi-rail truck, and how can hi-rail truck hire benefit a railway project? Let’s find out.

What is hi-rail?

The term “hi-rail” is the combination of the word’s “highway” and “rail”. It refers to vehicles that are able to operate both on the road and on railway tracks. Hi-rail vehicles may also be referred to as “hyrail”, “high-rail”, and “road rail” vehicles.

What are hi-rail trucks?

Hi-rail trucks are trucks that have either been designed or modified to be able to operate on roads and railway tracks. They typically have a set of regular rubber wheels for roads and a retractable set of flanged metal wheels for railways.

Hi-rail trucks may also be fitted with other features that allow them to operate more efficiently on railways. For example, some custom models of hi-rail truck can be controlled while on the railway from the inside cabin as well as from the back of the truck and from the top of an attached elevated work platform (EWP).

What are the benefits of hi-rail truck hire?

The primary advantage of using a hi-rail truck to service a railway project is their versatility. A hi-rail truck can be driven normally to get to the project site and then transfer onto railway tracks to perform work on areas of the railway where there is no nearby road access. They can also travel via railway tracks from one project site to another if required. This greatly reduces project time spent on material, equipment, and machine transport.

Most hi-rail trucks for hire come equipped with a variety of specialised tools and attachments that allow them to perform a variety of railway maintenance and railway construction duties. Hi-rail trucks are also very compact and typically do not pose a risk to overhead powerlines and other railway fixtures.

Why hire a hi-rail truck with Hi-Range Crane Forks?

Hi-Range Crane Forks provides quality hi-rail trucks for hire to railway construction and railway maintenance projects across New South Wales. Here are a few reasons why you should hire a hi-rail truck with Hi-Range Crane Forks:

Expertise

Hi-Range Crane Forks have been servicing the railway industry for over 30 years now! When you hire a hi-rail truck with us, you can rest assured that we will use our experience and expertise to provide you with the right hi-rail truck for your project.

Flexibility

To ensure that we can meet the needs of our customers, we provide both wet hire and dry hire solutions for our hi-rail trucks. When you wet hire a hi-rail truck with us, we provide you with a skilled and qualified machine operator. If you have your own certified operator, we’ll deliver a reliable, well-maintained hi-rail truck to your project. Our hi-rail trucks are available on short-term and long-term projects alike, so we can accommodate for the needs of almost any project.

Skilled operators

Our skilled operators can assist with signalling work, track upgrades, construction, and maintenance works using the machine. Our team always endeavour to help our customers achieve outstanding project outcomes.

Hire a hi-rail truck with Hi-Range Crane Forks today

For quality hi-rail truck hire across New South Wales, make Hi-Range Crane Trucks your first choice. Contact us on {phone} for an obligation free quote.

Telehandler brands: the ultimate guide to picking your equipment

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 02:45:04 GMT

15/10/2021

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

In some industries, brand names are just an excuse to tack more money on to a product. When it comes to heavy machinery, however, the name behind the piece of equipment that you choose matters a great deal. While there is no real risk in buying an inexpensive pair of chain-store shoes, cutting corners and costs on site machinery can carry serious consequences.

Telehandlers are a particularly complex machine, meaning that you get what you pay for when purchasing one. If you are not ready to outlay the money required for a high-quality telehandler, hiring is an ideal option. Hi-Range Crane Forks offers a range of telehandlers for hire from three of the world’s most respected machinery brands. Read on to find out more about the benefits of each brand.

Dieci telehandlers

Dieci’s telehandlers are renowned for their quality Italian design and manufacturing, as well as their custom features that cater to Australian conditions. During their 50-year history, Deici has forged a reputation as an industry innovator. Their commitment to breaking new technological ground across the agricultural, industrial, and construction sectors has seen them produce machines that are expertly designed with operators in mind.

Dieci telehandlers also happen to have some famous neighbours. The machines are designed and manufactured in the same Italian region as Ducati, Ferrari, and Maserati - and the telehandlers share the same attention to detail that these luxury brands are known for. The brand can claim the honour of developing Europe’s first-ever telescopic forklift in 1983, and they have continued to innovate across the design and development of telehandlers to suit all applications.

Merlo telehandlers

Merlo is a name synonymous with innovation in machinery, as the brand is constantly breaking new ground to ensure its product range is engineered to suit the user. For example, back in 1987 Merlo presented the first telescopic handler with a side engine and a low-hinged boom at the rear of the chassis.

The brand continued to tick off some world-firsts in telehandler design in the early 2000s, introducing two innovative suspension systems. The B.S.S. device (Boom Suspension System) hydraulically dampens forces reaching the telescopic boom, while the E.A.S. system (Electronic Active Suspension) is an intelligent system, enhanced by hydropneumatic shock absorbers that operate both as an active suspension and as a device for correcting the side tilt of the chassis.

It's not a stretch to say that the Merlo range of rotating telehandlers has changed the game of machinery engineering. Merlo’s constant improvements and innovations have set the benchmark for its competitors, particularly for operators who prioritise premium control and safety standards.

Manitou telehandlers

Manitou has a lot to gloat about regarding their construction machinery. Staking a claim as the inventor of the first all-terrain forklift truck, the company has used its expertise to design high-performance telescopic handlers unlike anything else on the market. These are what we now know as the MT-X and MHT-X ranges: machines that are custom-made to handle heavy and bulky loads. These new-generation motorised machines are essential to a wide range of construction fields. Across the disciplines of masonry, cladding, tunnelling, roofing, structure, and renovations, Manitou telescopic handlers are up to the task.

Some of the top features of Manitou telescopic handlers include their extreme versatility due to interchangeable attachments and different steering modes. The machines also feature modular dashboards with easily accessible cabs, not to mention perfect manoeuvrability. Their tough design ensures that each machine is highly shock resistant, but not at the expense of user comfort. Ergonomics have been taken well into account, including 360-degree visibility from the cab.

Find high-quality telehandlers for hire at Hi-Range Crane Forks

When it comes to construction, it turns out a name matters quite a lot. Hi-Range Crane Forks operates and maintains selection of top-of-the-line, meticulously maintained telehandlers for hire from each of these three brands, so you can approach your project with confidence. If you are seeking a telehandler that you can rely on, this is the place to find it.

Our company can provide wet and dry machinery hire options for clients across New South Wales. Call our helpful team on {phone} or reach out to us online to find out more about our high-quality telehandlers for hire.

What is the difference between a telehandler and a forklift? Common questions answered

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 02:45:03 GMT

12/10/2021

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

When it comes to the wide world of construction machinery, there are some common terms that get used interchangeably when they shouldn’t. To the site novice, a telehandler and a forklift might be considered as machines suitable for the same jobs, or even two words for the same machine. This is not the case!

Sure, they both lift, place, and move loads, but there are some key distinctions between these two powerful machines that you should be across before you decide on which one to hire for your project. We’ve done the research and asked the experts for the main differences between telehandlers and forklifts, so that you can make an informed choice and avoid any on-site disappointment.

1. Telehandlers have multiple arm attachments

If you need a machine with increased mobility on your site, telehandlers win the day over forklifts. While the humble forklift has its place in lifting loads up and down, telehandlers feature booms that can be fitted with different attachments. Telehandlers are essentially the Inspector Gadgets of heavy machinery.

Telehandlers can move loads backwards and forwards with ease without moving their base, unlike their forklift counterparts. In addition, telehandlers can be fitted with hooks, scoops, and buckets to handle any load that may be present on your site.

2. Telehandlers and forklifts work best on different terrains
Forklifts and telehandlers have different capabilities, making each one suitable for certain jobs. A telehandler is something of a construction site superstar , boasting versatility and manoeuvrability that makes it a great choice for tricky terrain. Thanks to their larger wheelbases and bodies, telehandlers can handle slippery and uneven surfaces. Forklifts are better fitting for less tumultuous terrain, as their reliable control and functionality work well indoors.

3. They each shine in different settings

For construction and outdoor sites, hiring a telehandler is a no-brainer. Telehandlers fill a range of niches, so you don’t need to hire a different machine for every single job on site. Thanks to the variety of telehandler attachments available, a telehandler can become something of an all-in-one solution for larger construction projects. Whether you need to carry large loads to hard-to-access spots, or require a mini-crane in a pinch, the telehandler has you covered.

If you have indoor work that needs to be done, such as in a warehouse or a factory, forklifts are generally the go-to choice. They can move loads across shelves, docks, vehicles, and warehouse floors, providing a range of functionality perfectly suited to a more controlled environment.

Which one do you choose?

While traditional forklifts have their place, you really can’t beat a telehandler when it comes to versatility. To summarise, a telehandler is capable of everything that a forklift is, with some extra features that come in handy on the job site.

Take advantage of our first-rate telehandlers on your next project

With all this information considered, you may now be realising that a telehandler would be the ideal piece of equipment for your next construction, renovation, or assembly job. Hi-Range Crane Forks operates and maintains a wide range of telehandlers for hire , all fully capable of servicing projects of any size across New South Wales.

From telehandlers with a 5-7 metre reach, all the way up to 20+-metre reach, have the telehandler perfect for your job. If you would like to know more about our light, standard, or heavy telehandler hire services, call us today on {phone} or get in touch via our website. Our friendly team can help you with quotes and expert advice.

Why you should hire a hi-rail EWP with Hi-Range Crane Forks

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 02:45:02 GMT

08/10/2021

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Elevated Work Platforms (EWPs) are a common sight on work sites across multiple sectors in New South Wales. They are manoeuvrable and compact machines that can lift and lower workers, enabling them to perform work at height and in areas they would otherwise not be able access easily. EWPs are used both indoors and outdoors and eliminate the risk of accidents related to climbing, lifting, and even falling while on a work site.

Because EWPs provide exceptional access height in a compact platform, they are a popular choice of machine on railway construction and maintenance projects. Many railway construction and maintenance projects involve working at heights and in tight access areas because they are located in urban environments. In fact, there are EWPs that are specifically designed for the rail industry called hi-rail EWPs.

What is a hi-rail EWP and what are they used for?

Hi-rail EWPs are EWPs that have been modified or manufactured to operate on both on roads and railway tracks. The term “hi-rail” is a combination of the words “highway” and “rail”. A hi-rail EWP will typically have standard rubber wheels for the road and a set of retractable flanged steel wheels that allow them to operate on railway tracks when there is no road nearby.

Hi-rail EWPs are ideal for performing maintenance and repairs on overhead rail powerlines. They can safely move workers to the repair site without the risk of damaging adjacent powerlines and structures.

Why hire a hi-rail EWP with us?

If you’re looking for hi-rail EWP hire in Sydney and across New South Wales, make Hi-Range Crane Forks your first choice. Here are some reasons why you should hire with Sydney’s leading hi-rail EWP hire providers:

Company expertise

Hi-Range Crane Forks have been providing specialised hi-rail equipment hire including hi-rail EWP hire to the rail industry for over 30 years. In our time as a company, we have worked with government bodies and Tier 1 contractors to successfully complete countless railway construction and railway maintenance projects. Our wealth of experience and expertise allows us to deliver our clients the right type of hi-rail EWP for their project.

Flexibility

Hi-Range Crane Forks offers a variety of wet hire and dry hire options for hi-rail EWPs. If you’re looking to wet hire a hi-rail EWP, we’ll provide a skilled operator to complete the associated railway maintenance and repair duties. If you can provide you own ticketed operator, we’ll provide you with a hi-rail EWP for dry hire for the duration of your project.

Skilled operators

When you wet hire a hi-rail EWP with Hi-Range Crane Forks, we send out skilled operators who can perform signalling work, powerline repairs, railway maintenance, and more using our hi-rail EWPs. We can also assist with larger jobs like junction upgrades, embankment stabilisation, and track upgrades.

Safety and quality assurance

We make sure that all our hi-rail EWPs are maintained to an incredibly high standard. To ensure that everyone remains safe and that their projects are completed on time, our hi-rail EWPs are always provided to our customers in optimal condition.

Work with us today

To hire high quality hi-rail EWPs in Sydney and across New South Wales, get in touch with Hi-Range Crane Forks today. We have both wet hire and dry hire options available to suit the needs of our valued customers. Contact us on {phone} to get a free quote, or learn more about the EWPs we have available here.

Hi-rail EWP hire; wet hire or dry hire?

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 02:45:01 GMT

08/10/2021

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

In the rail industry, hi-rail EWPs (Elevated Work Platforms) are often used to undertake railway maintenance works including track expansion, signal work, or junction upgrades. Whether you wet hire or dry hire a hi-rail EWP can have a significant impact on the outcome of your railway repair or maintenance project. But what is the difference between wet hire and dry hire for hi-rail EWP? Let’s find out.

What is a hi-rail EWP?

EWP stands for Elevated Work Platform. An EWP is a working platform that can be lifted and lowered so an operator can perform their work in hard to access places or move equipment from one level to another. EWP is a categorical term which includes machines such as boom lifts, telescopic lifts, and scissor lifts.

A hi-rail EWP is an EWP that has been modified to operate both on roads and on railways. The term ‘hi-rail’ is just a combination of ‘highway’ and ‘rail’. Hi-rail EWP’s

Do you need a licence to operate a hi-rail EWP?

To operate a boom lift EWP with a boom length of over 11 metres, an operator is required to hold a licence. The required licence is a WP High Risk Work (HRW) licence issued by a Work Health and Safety Regulator. In New South Wales, the Work Health and Safety Regulator is SafeWork NSW.

Boom lifts under 11 metres and all other types of EWP do not require the operator to hold a licence. However, the operator must still be able to show proof of training or accreditation. Most operators obtain this training by undertaking a Yellow Card course. A Yellow Card is a nationally recognised industry licence that is issued by the Elevating Work Platform Association of Australia.

Check the type of EWP you’re planning to use and its size to discern whether you need to hire an accredited operator for your project.

What is the difference between wet hire and dry hire?

A wet hire service will include the hi-rail EWP and a qualified operator while dry hire provides the hi-rail EWP only. If you decide to dry hire a hi-rail EWP, you will need to operate the machine yourself or provide an operator for it.

The pros and cons of hi-rail EWP wet hire

When you wet hire a hi-rail EWP, the provided operator will control the machine. This will increase the hire cost as you will be paying for the operator’s labour as well as the hi-rail EWP hire and fuel costs.

The benefit, however, is that the provided operator has the correct licence and training as well as a level of familiarity with the hi-rail EWP unit that allows them to complete work with a high level of efficiency and skill. In theory, almost anyone can obtain the correct training and licences to operate a hi-rail EWP. However, becoming proficient at carrying out railway maintenance works using a specific type of hi-rail EWP can only happen through hands-on experience.

The pros and cons of hi-rail EWP dry hire

Hi-rail EWP dry hire does not include an operator. If you have the experience and correct licences to operate a hi-rail EWP, the dry hire option will certainly be cheaper because you will not have to pay for an operator’s labour.

If you can provide your own ticketed operator, their labour costs may be cheaper depending on what has been contracted. However, it may be cheaper with some wet hire companies to hire both the machine and the operator rather than providing your own separately.

Dry hire also comes with a level of risk. Even if you have the correct licences, you or your provided operator may not be proficient working with the hired hi-rail EWP. This increases the chances of using the hi-rail EWP incorrectly which then heightens the risk of injury or damage to the project and compromises safety. A less skilled hi-rail EWP operator may also take far longer to complete the work.

Hi-Range Crane Forks offers hi-rail crane wet hire

At Hi-Range Crane Forks, we provide both wet hire and dry hire options on our hi-rail EWPs available across New South Wales. Contact Hi-Range Crane Forks today for a quote by calling

How to prevent crane hazards

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 02:45:00 GMT

08/10/2021

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Cranes and telehandlers are essential machines on New South Wales construction sites, but they are also big, heavy, and carry big and heavy things. Knowing this, mitigating the risks associated with operating a crane is essential to keeping workers and the general public safe.

Crane hazards can be applied to machines using crane attachments. Hi-Range Crane Forks provide telehandlers with crane attachments available here.

How do crane-related injuries happen?

The first step of preventing crane hazards is identifying them. Safe Work Australia estimates that between 2003 and 2015, 47 workers were killed in crane-related accidents, and 240 crane-related injury claims are reported per year on average. Knowing why can help to keep from repeating them.

Data like this can help to identify ways that construction companies can prevent crane hazards. For example, the most common crane-related injury is muscular stress while handling objects - meaning employee education on how to lift heavy objects and knowing your limits on how heavy an object you can lift would reduce this crane-related hazard. Improving traffic management on site could prevent workers being hit by moving objects; improving the safety of tower cranes and man boxes would prevent falls from a height; and centreing loads correctly would prevent workers from being hit by falling objects.

But how do you implement this information?

Choosing a machine

Every machine is built differently, and in the case of machine hire, chances are that they have been used before. To ensure you hire a crane built for your project, check its specifications. Can it lift the loads you will require it to lift? Can it fit into the spaces you require it to fit? Can it manoeuvre around power lines and other obstacles on site? If the answer to any of these questions is “no”, then the machine is not safe to operate on your project.

Most importantly, ensure that you hire a machine from a reputable machine hire company. The machine hire company must be able to prove that the machine for hire is up to date on services, maintenance, and repairs, that the machine is not damaged, and that it is right for the job. Poorly serviced and maintained cranes and telehandlers can turn out weaker than specified, making it difficult for an operator to know if they are overloading the crane or telehandler or centering a load correctly, which can cause loads to fall onto the site below.

Reputable machine hire companies like Hi-Range Crane Forks can provide a consultation service to advise you on which machine to hire on your project, and always provide hirers with well-maintained machines.

Wet hiring a machine

In our blog “4 reasons why a professional should handle your crane” , we talked about how even experienced operators can be vulnerable to breaching work health and safety requirements when operating a machine they have never operated before. When hiring a machine, Hi-Range Crane Forks recommends wet hire, as a professional operator working within the hire company will have experience on the machine you hire. Hi-Range Crane Forks’ operators are licenced and trained to adhere to all occupational health and safety measures on our cranes.

Wet hiring also ensures a greater level of consultation between your construction company and the hire company. With the operator as a liaison on the ground, construction companies have greater access to work health and safety advice specific to the crane. Professional operators with experience on the hired machine can more easily note changes to a crane or telehandler’s load bearing capabilities or any damage it may have sustained. An extra pair of eyes to identify a problem can help to prevent it.

Creating an emergency plan

Emergency plans establish organised and clear prevention methods for an emergency, and organised and clear emergency responses. This means all staff know their part in preventing crane hazards and in mitigating them should they occur. Project managers know all too well that the only way to ensure something happens is to ensure staff know that it is their job to do it, and know how.

Emergency plans should include:

Identifying the hazards and who they would affect
Assessing the risk of the hazard occurring
Identifying who is responsible for controlling a hazard
Instructions on how to control the hazard

Workers and other companies on site should be consulted in the creation of the emergency plan. Feel free to identify hazards with the help of the first section of this blog, the consultancy of your crane hire company, your workers, other companies on site, and your wet hire operator.

Hi-Range Crane Forks offers hi-rail crane wet hire

We supply telehandlers for hire with crane attachments, and with expert Hi-Range Crane Forks operators, across New South Wales. We pride ourselves on our skilled operators, expert consultancy, and attention to detail.

Got slope stability works coming up? Our cranes can be of help

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 01:53:01 GMT

01/01/2022

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Track works. Railbuses. Change trains at the next station. If you are a regular rail commuter, these are all phrases that no doubt cause you to roll your eyes, check your watch, and adjust your plans. To the untrained observer, railway track upgrades are largely seen as an inconvenience – albeit a necessary one. The team at Hi-Range Crane Forks is an expert source of knowledge on this subject, as we undertake this kind of work on a regular basis. We are here to help you understand the ins and outs of railway track maintenance, from track upgrades to sleeper removal. Join us for an inside look.

The right equipment for the job

Due to the precise, delicate, and timely nature of railroad track maintenance, a fleet of high-performing heavy machinery is necessary to get the job done well. Hi-rail cranes, elevated work platforms (EWPs), trucks, and telehandlers combine to create a formidable force capable of tackling the specific challenges of track works. These machines have a range of features that are unique in the heavy-machinery space, including four-wheel-drive, standard fixed booms, and even full slewing capabilities. These elements are helpful in the rail upgrade space as they help to increase accessibility, avoid contact with powerlines, and aid in the loading of sensitive materials.

What’s happening on the ground

Train tracks have a huge role to play in the rail system, so it is of the utmost importance in all upgrades and repairs that they are treated with expert care. As well as repair jobs such as changing broken rails and damaged sleepers, regular maintenance takes place constantly – lubricating and adjusting switches, tightening loose track components, grinding the rail surface that train wheels run on to leave a clean surface for a smoother ride, as well as cleaning and replacing the ballast. None of these tasks can be completed without the appropriate heavy machinery. Hi-rail trucks for loading materials, hi-rail cranes for safe accessibility, and telehandlers for moving heavy loads are just some examples of the machinery used to complete rail works safely.

But wait … look up!

When it comes to repairs and upgrades in the rail space, it is important to be aware of overhead lines. An overhead line (or overhead wire) is an electrical cable that is used to transmit electrical energy to the train. This powerful system is not without its faults and is extremely dangerous when not attended to by professionals. Overhead lines may be negatively affected by strong winds causing wires to swing. Electrical storms can knock the power out with lightning strikes on systems with overhead wires, stopping trains following a power surge. Overhead lines are not to be messed with – which is why it is important to give them appropriate clearance when performing track works. Hi-rail elevated work platforms (EWPs) are crucial in the repairs and upgrade process. The compact nature of an EWP means it can safely move a worker to the desired area without the risk of damaging overhead powerlines. Certain EWPs also feature wheels that are safe to travel on railroads without the risk of cracking the tracks below.

The professional team keeping your tracks on track

As you now know, railway track upgrades are quite a serious and complex operation. The team at Hi-Range Crane Forks are experts in this line of work, boasting decades of experience both on site and with pre-planning logistics. The company has been behind some major rail network projects across New South Wales including Central Station main works, Sydenham Station junction, and the Newcastle intercity fleet just to name a handful. If you are contracting for major rail works, trust the team at Hi-Range Crane Forks to achieve outstanding results that will keep your project moving right on track.

What is a rail junction upgrade?

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 01:52:54 GMT

01/01/2022

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Rail junction upgrades are rail works projects designed to improve rail systems and corridors. A rail junction is, by definition, a point at which two or more rail lines intersect or diverge from one another. Junctions are often located at or close to stations to facilitate expanded route capacity and rail efficiency. At Hi-Range Crane Forks, we can assist with comprehensive rail junction upgrades across New South Wales.

A rail junction upgrade is a complicated process, typically involving multiple contractors and many moving parts. Upgrade projects typically involve track works designed to improve rail route efficiency. For example: the separation of freight and passenger lines can minimise the down time required when trains must give way to one another. A junction upgrade could also include the integration of an additional rail route into an existing junction. Hi-Range Crane Forks provide top quality rail works services and can ensure that your next junction upgrade is a success.

Well-executed junction upgrades are all about efficiency - making sure that the right contractors and equipment is in place at the right time to ensure minimal downtime for rail routes. At Hi-Range Crane Forks, we provide a comprehensive range of plant and equipment for hire that ensure industry-leading results on any kind of junction upgrade. Our fleet of top quality hi-rail cranes, hi-rail elevated work platforms, hi-rail trucks, and telehandlers are all custom designed to work on rail tracks. We can provide wet hire packages with skilled operators, as well as dry hire packages for businesses with their own qualified operators. No matter what equipment you require for your next rail junction upgrade, Hi-Range Crane Forks has you covered.

Potential upgrade downfalls to keep an eye out for

While the outcome of a well-executed rail junction upgrade is always positive, there can be potential hazards and pitfalls which may occur throughout the course of each project. These issues range from frustrating to potentially dangerous. The most common issue which can arise while carrying out rail junction upgrades is damage caused by using improper machinery or employing underqualified contractors. Disorganisation like this incurs the risk of improperly installing or damaging infrastructure or materials - which can have immediate ramifications or go unnoticed and cause further damage down the track. Although time is often of the essence when it comes to rail junction upgrades, it is absolutely vital that arrangements are made to contract an expert team equipped with high-quality machinery, like the team at Hi-Range Crane Forks.

Rail junction upgrades in New South Wales

New South Wales is almost completely canvassed by rail routes and corridors, from metropolitan networks like Sydney trains to regional lines which extend to Broken Hill, Cobar, and more. As a result, New South Wales contains a large number of junctions, and the need for rail junction upgrades is significant. At Hi-Range Crane Forks, we offer our rail services, heavy equipment, and machine operators across New South Wales.

Rail junction upgrades: facilitating faster train times

While being quite an involved process, rail junction upgrade projects are one of the most effective methods of streamlining rail routes and corridors. They can effectively facilitate lessened rail congestion without the need for massive infrastructure reworks across existing networks. The team at Hi-Range Crane Forks have the skills, expertise, qualifications, and necessary equipment to ensure great results on every rail junction upgrade project we have a hand in. Get in touch with us today to plan a rail junction upgrade, and get an obligation-free quote from our friendly team.

Hire a hi-rail truck with Hi-Range Crane Forks today

For quality hi-rail truck hire across New South Wales, make Hi-Range Crane Trucks your first choice. Contact us on {phone} for an obligation free quote.

Hold the line – how does a railway track upgrade work?

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 01:26:24 GMT

01/01/2022

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Our team has plenty of experience in putting our cranes to work on slope stability and slope safety projects in New South Wales. Here’s a brief overview of some common slope stabilisation techniques and how our cranes and equipment can help to implement them.

What is slope stabilisation?

Whether they’re natural or man-made, slopes don’t always stay perfectly in place. Slopes built from rocks or dirt are inherently predisposed to shift and move, and while that kind of movement takes a while to get going, it can snowball very quickly once it’s in motion.

Slope stabilisation is the process of assessing a slope for potential movement or displacement, and then acting to both restore the slope to its previous condition and prevent future movement where possible - therefore ensuring slope safety.

What are some common slope stabilisation techniques?

There are a handful of commonly utilised techniques for addressing and mitigating slope movement in order to improve slope safety. The appropriateness of these individual methods will depend on what the slope is made of and what’s causing it to move, however implementing one or several of these measures is likely to improve overall slope stability.

This range of potential solutions includes:

Material removal

If the problem stems from the slope having a loose top layer composed of dirt or earth, this material can be easily removed and replaced with either a static material like concrete or nets designed to immobilise the slope’s new top layer.

Soil stabilisation

Naturally occurring slopes composed primarily of dirt and soil can be stabilised in a number of different ways.

These include mechanical processes (material compaction; preliminary water drainage; material mixing) and chemical processes (applying materials like fly ash, lime, or concrete).

Support stabilisation

A slope can also be stabilised with the aid of physical supports like rock bolts, anchor points, and retaining walls.

Water drainage

The presence of excess water can put increased internal pressure on the materials comprising the slope. Draining this water can help to mediate material slippage and improve overall stability.

How can our cranes help?

We’ve got a wealth of experience when it comes to slope stabilisation - we’ve been working on rail projects for over 30 years now , and have completed slope stabilisation works all around New South Wales.

Our most commonly used slope stabilisation techniques include retaining wall/vibro stone column construction, soil replacement, geocell installation, and planting vegetation on top of a temporary erosion control mat.

These techniques have served us well on a wide range of slope stabilisation projects around the Sydney region and New South Wales. When combined with our experience, professionalism, and knack for problem solving, they’re a recipe for slope stabilisation success.

New South Wales’ slope safety experts

Slope stability is crucial to the ongoing safety of many of our roads and rail systems, as well as the people that use them. The Hi-Range team is well-positioned to handle these jobs and deliver outstanding outcomes, because of our extensive knowledge and experience when it comes to slope stabilisation techniques. If you’re in need of a reliable slope stabilisation contractor, get in touch with Hi-Range Crane Forks today .

Mind the labour gap: How an effective subcontractor strategy can address the rail and road infrastructure labour crisis.

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 00:03:36 GMT

16/02/2023

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Overview

Skilled worker and labour shortages have been on the rise across numerous sectors Australia-wide in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This reduction in the workforce has been particularly prominent in the road and rail industry. A recent survey of members of the Australian Railway Association (ARA) found that 68 percent of rail infrastructure business was reliant on overseas workers and skilled labour to successfully deliver on large scale projects.

With international and domestic COVID restrictions and border closures cutting off the access to overseas talent pools, rail and road infrastructure providers are experiencing the significant impact this has caused; with many current projects relied upon to contribute to the post-COVID economic recovery. To address these ongoing shortages, many rail and road contractors have now begun to implement a long-term subcontractor strategy.

The outsourcing of labour to a third party, also known as subcontracting, is a common practice across all industry sectors and forms a vital piece of the construction economy; with some major companies outsourcing upwards of 80 percent of their work activities. As skilled labour shortages continue to affect all areas of the construction industry, the resulting demand for subcontractors has never been higher.

By enlisting the services of a subcontractor, productivity is optimised on a project and ensures it meets the agreed delivery times. However, in order to reap all the benefits that subcontracting can provide, it is vital that there is an effective management strategy in place.

What you will learn from this publication:

The benefits of utilising subcontractors as an alternative to in-house skilled workers sourced from overseas.
The common issues that can occur when subcontractors are hired without a management strategy in place.
Key fundamentals that should be actioned to ensure an effective subcontractor strategy.
68% of rail infrastructure business is reliant on overseas workers and skilled labour to deliver large scale projects.
Major companies outsource, or subcontract upwards of 80% of their work activity.

The key benefits of subcontracting

Subcontracting has many benefits for project management firms, allowing for a greater focus on core competencies which, in turn, minimises risks, optimises costs, and ensures the high quality of project delivery.

Across large-scale rail infrastructure projects, subcontracting helps to secure the supply of specialised equipment like hi-rail, as well as the provision of qualified and experienced operators. Project managers can also be assured that the workers provided by a subcontractor will be fully licensed to meet all necessary legal obligations.

Structuring a business to partner with subcontractors as opposed to solely relying on in-house labour and machinery also assists with safeguarding against any economic downturns and periods of uncertainty. When demand is at a minimum, a firm can avoid mass lay-offs and can source subcontractors as an additional means of labour far more efficiently than mass hiring. In relation to machinery, the need for ongoing maintenance, housing, insurance, and other expenses can be avoided during poor performing economic cycles.

For companies looking to scale up their business and incorporate projects with areas of scope that fall outside of their specialty, rather than incorporating a new division into the existing company structure, they can compensate with specialised subcontractors. This will allow a business to take on more potentially lucrative contracts and meet all necessary delivery requirements without incurring the financial risk of in-house expansions.

Subcontracting provides companies with access to a specialised network of skilled workers.
Companies that utilise subcontractors can scale their workforce in accordance with current economic cycles and industry demand.

Issues that can arise due to ineffective subcontractor management

Despite its wide-ranging benefits to primary contractors, the process of subcontracting is not a prevention oriented one and, as a result, is subject to common issues that arise across all types of rail and road infrastructure projects.

As such, it's therefore crucial for management firms to have an effective subcontractor management system in place.

The major management concerns that arise when working with subcontractors generally revolve around productivity and delivery timeframes. These “big picture” items of concern can eventuate as a result of any number of small instances during the project delivery process with a few of the more common being:

Knock-on effect:
Subcontracted projects operate in an inter-dependent manner, with the actions of one party directly impacting the other. For example, should one subcontractor be late in delivering one certain aspect of the project, this can create a knock-on effect for the parties whose work is set to follow, with each now being forced to mirror the initial subcontractor and work beyond their originally agreed completion times.

Communication:
As with most business operations, communication is vital to any level of success. It stands to reason that the larger the project, the more difficult communication becomes. With subcontractors, especially those being outsourced for the first time, they are not always going to conduct their work in the manner that your firm and long-term partners may be used to. As a result, a lack of effective communication and leaving subcontractors to their own devices could lead to unexpected project outcomes.

Tracking and payments:
Staying on top of elements such as project labour costs, overall work progress in relation to projections, and payment and invoice schedules can be a lot to juggle if a firm doesn’t have the correct reporting systems in place. Maintaining a log of up-to-date information across all aspects of a project is crucial in ensuring subcontractor output is able to be accurately tracked, and completed works can be clearly invoiced, confirmed, and paid.

Having identified and outlined some of the factors that can result in ongoing project issues working with an outsourced workforce, we will now look at some of the key considerations that can be incorporated into an effective management strategy.

McKinsey analysis found that large projects take on average 20% longer to finish than scheduled.
Research conducted by FMI found that miscommunication and poor project data results in 33% of working hours across the Australian and New Zealand construction industries being allocated to 'non-optimal' activities.
Poor communication accounts for upwards of $8.4 billion in rework costs annually across Australia and New Zealand.
The construction industry is one of the least digitised globally.

Key points to achieving an effective subcontractor strategy

When taking on a subcontracted workforce for any manner of construction, including road and rail infrastructure, it’s important that the firm clearly plans and outlines a strategy for how they will manage their additional resources.

Improvising or implementing new processes for every project can lead to inconsistencies in relation to communication, safety, and overall productivity.

A uniform subcontractor strategy should aim to encompass standardised processes and procedures that can be applied across all projects. By adopting a blanket strategy, firms will encourage consistent subcontractor behaviours which, in turn, will minimise the occurrence of unexpected variables, unknowns, and reduce overall project risks. Bearing this in mind, we have identified two recommended actions that should be incorporated when planning for a successful subcontractor strategy.

Consider a collaborative/partnership model:
When drawing up agreements and outlining the relationship between the main contractor and the subcontractor, you can either view them as a servant adversary, or as a project partner with identical delivery based outcomes. Outcome-based contracts backed by an on-site culture that encourages the right behaviours and recognises and rewards good performance can not only ensure a successful project delivery, but also lay the groundwork for building sustainable long-term subcontractor relations.

Utilise the correct construction and mobile software:
Mobile and cloud-based technology has made it increasingly easier to maintain consistent communication and manage documents on a project site. Software platforms now exist that have been purpose-built for the construction industry and can provide live, up-to-date data reporting and manage daily aspects like timesheets, dockets, maintenance logs, and workflows. In direct relation to subcontractor output, there are platforms that assist in compiling thorough assessments of completed work, compensating for aspects like safety performance, quality of work, and overall productivity.

Delivery partner models have been used internationally for public infrastructure projects including the Olympic Games in London.
Locally, delivery partnerships are being highlighted as an effective model for government infrastructure projects and was implemented on the Woolgoolga to Ballina Pacific Highway Upgrade (W2B).
In 2019, digital construction solutions, such as software, were highlighted as having the potential to increase total industry revenue by $25 billion across a two-year period.

Improvising or implementing new processes for every project can lead to inconsistencies in relation to communication, safety, and overall productivity.

Delivery partner models have been used internationally for public infrastructure projects including the Olympic Games in London.
Locally, delivery partnerships are being highlighted as an effective model for government infrastructure projects and was implemented on the Woolgoolga to Ballina Pacific Highway Upgrade (W2B).
In 2019, digital construction solutions, such as software, were highlighted as having the potential to increase total industry revenue by $25 billion across a two-year period.

Summary

When it comes to the timely completion of road and rail infrastructure, there is no doubt that operational efficiency is key.

Labour shortages are a growing trend within the industry and as projects become more complex, working with subcontractors is becoming increasingly more common. With this dramatic shift in operational practices, it is vitally important for project management firms and primary contractors to have an effective subcontractor strategy in place.

Subcontracting can afford firms the flexibility to scale up their operations as demand dictates and broaden their fields of specialty, whilst safeguarding themselves against unnecessary financial outgoings during periods of economic downturn. While it is well documented that the use of subcontractors can at times be problematic, these factors can be drastically reduced with appropriate management strategies.

By adopting a partnership approach to your subcontracted workforce and reinforcing a clear set of processes and procedures, as well as a means of reporting and communication, whether that be via a piece of technology or not, road and rail infrastructure firms can continue to deliver projects and keep up with industry demand. By establishing long-term, mutually beneficial business relationships with subcontractors, it can firmly cement in-place a viable alternative to in-house labour and greatly reduce the reliance on sourcing skilled workers from overseas.

Hi-Range Crane Forks have spent more than 30 years partnering in a subcontracting capacity with Tier 1 companies and Government bodies to deliver road and rail infrastructure.
By implementing effective management strategies, Hi-Range Crane Forks have established sustainable, long-term partnerships with subcontractors whom they continue to collaborate with on road and rail projects.

Improving rail safety with hi-rail cranes: Reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.

Sun, 23 Jul 2023 10:54:55 GMT

16/02/2023

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Introduction

The safety advantages of hi-rail cranes: An in-depth look at how hi-rail cranes can improve safety in the rail industry by reducing the risk of accidents and injuries during operations.

When utilising cranes to complete rail constructions, it is paramount to protect and maintain the safety of workers. In the case of mobile cranes, a SafeWork NSW data analysis in 2018 discovered that the most common safety incidents for this crane involved collapses. Mobile cranes, by nature, involve a range of operating and relocation safety considerations, and their movements throughout a worksite leave room for a range of risk factors.

Hi-rail cranes could offer safety advantages that mitigate a number of industry risks due to their high level of accessibility, minimising the need to traverse difficult landscapes and roadblocks.

Railway corridors can often be difficult to access, whether due to fencing, surrounding structures, power lines, or station layouts. In order to complete installations or repairs in tight-access areas, mobile cranes must be carefully manoeuvred. Yet despite best efforts and practices, there is always a higher level of risk involved with utilising mobile cranes for these projects.

Choosing Hi-Rail cranes for railway works offers a higher level of safety and access to a wide range of railway types and locations. Hi-rail cranes are specifically designed to operate on railways, with the added benefit of being fixed to the track when in use, which can dramatically reduce potential risk factors associated with mobile crane operation.

The main topics this document will cover include:

The range of safety risks involved in operating mobile cranes for railway construction
Issues with limited mobile crane access have when traversing railway locations and landscapes
How Hi-Rail crane systems bypass the safety issues involved in mobile cranes and offer a fixed-track safety advantage
Between 2011 and 2015, 45% of mobile crane accidents involved crane overturns, which was the largest cause of crane accidents between these years

The risks of using mobile cranes for railway constructions

There are many risks and issues involved with using a mobile crane for railway constructions.

Tipping risks while operating

One of the main risks associated with mobile cranes is the potential for tipping over. According to the North Carolina Department of Labor, one mobile crane tips over during every 10,000 hours of crane use in the US. Tipping often occurs when cranes are not correctly set up, when the load being lifted exceeds the crane's capacity, or when improper access is attempted.

This means that attempting to traverse difficult landscapes or areas like those found in railway constructions can result in a mobile crane tipping over, which can cause severe damage to equipment and surrounding structures, as well as injury or death to workers and members of the public.

Slow-paced, cautious access

Another risk associated with mobile cranes is the need for careful access. This can increase the risk of accidents and delays, as well as increase construction time. Mobile cranes are typically large and heavy, and they require a stable and level surface to operate on which can be a challenge in urban areas where the availability of suitable sites is limited.

Additionally, mobile cranes often require extensive set-up and take-down procedures, which can also add to the risk and time required for construction. Before these mobile cranes can be used for railway constructions, correct assembly is required to mitigate risks.

Not suitable for emergency scenarios

Mobile cranes are not suitable for emergency response constructions such as bridge collapses, natural disasters, and accidents. Their large size and weight can make it difficult to access the site of an emergency, and they may be limited by traffic, road access, and long assembly requirements. Mobile cranes are not typically equipped with the necessary features to operate in emergency conditions, such as the ability to lift heavy loads quickly or move through tight spaces.

Difficult traversing crowded areas
Mobile cranes often complete work beside the track corridor, rather than on it. If the area around a track is full of obstacles like buildings, workers, or other structures, then lifting may be required over these areas. However, lifting over these obstacles poses further safety risks. In their General Guide for Cranes, SafeWork Australia stated that “Loads should not be lifted over public access areas including footpaths, roads, highways, railways, waterways and buildings. If there is a risk of people being hit by falling objects, control measures… should be used to prevent people being hit by falling objects during lifting operations.”

The safer alternative to mobile cranes: hi-rail cranes

Hi-Rail cranes are capable of completing junction upgrades, track expansions, slope stabilisation, signal works, and rail works using specialised mechanisms.

Safe for operation beneath powerlines

Hi-rail cranes are advantageously compact in size, and are made specially to suit the various working spaces found in railway construction environments. According to SafeWork NSW, between June 2020 and October 2021 workplace contact with electricity resulted in more than 400 dangerous incidents, 569 serious injuries, and two fatalities. Due to their size, Hi-Rail cranes pose significantly less of a threat to overhead powerlines when compared to mobile cranes. This means they can navigate around and beneath wires without causing a risk.

Designed for on-track use

Hi-Rail cranes also have wheels and mechanisms that are specifically designed to stay on railway tracks. These cranes won’t have to operate beside the track, because they are designed to work on railway lines. Without the immediate risk of nearby obstructions surrounding the rail corridor, surrounding workers will be able to work more safely throughout operations.

Easy access for emergency repairs

Hi-Rail cranes are able to provide easy access to locations along track which are more difficult to reach. Mobile cranes often require further equipment and negotiation to place them in desired locations, whether it be within a city station, a trenched railway, or building surrounded railway corridor.

For emergency access situations, Hi-Rail cranes are ideal because to their ability to travel along a track towards whatever track-related obstruction requires construction aid. Whereas other cranes can be stopped by traffic and surrounding structures, especially within city areas, Hi-Rail cranes can go where a mobile crane is unable to.

Designed for quick and risk-free dispatch
When constructing and dismantling mobile cranes, there are a large number of potential risks involved. 51% of crane related incidents in a 2010 HSE analysis in the UK involved erecting, dismantling, and extending a tower crane, making it the most common accident category of the tower crane incidents considered. Hi-Rail cranes are far easier to erect than mobile and tower cranes, because they are especially designed to operate within rail construction environments.

The same investigation deemed lifting, manoeuvring, and fitting together large components at height as physically demanding and hazardous. Assembly is far easier by using a Hi-Rail crane, which is designed to be assembled within the tight-access environments found in railway corridors, and then easily placed on tracks for quick transportation.

When compared to the array of risks that arise when using a mobile crane which works beside a track rather than on it, choosing a Hi-Rail crane for railway constructions is choosing a crane option that is specifically designed for railway use and has significantly less risk while operating. You are ensuring the safety of surrounding personnel and protecting the structural stability of your project.

Summary

Using mobile cranes to complete railway constructions throughout tight-access areas poses significantly more risks than if a site was to utilise Hi-Rail specialised railway equipment. Mobile cranes must operate beside track constructions, rather than on the track, meaning they must be carefully brought to site, assembled, used correctly, and then dismantled.

Throughout the process of using a mobile crane, there are many possibilities for damage and safety risks to arise. Whether this be the risk of tipping, errors when erecting or dismantling crane equipment, issues with site-access, inability to complete emergency repairs, or more. A mobile crane does not have the designed easy access that a Hi-Rail crane has, which is what makes it a more dangerous machine to operate.

For these reasons, railway constructions can benefit greatly by choosing Hi-Rail equipment for their site since Hi-Rail cranes are designed to operate within railway spaces, offering superior access, safety, and efficiency. By choosing equipment that is purpose-built to traverse the tight-access spaces found in railway constructions, teams can remain safe and your site is no longer at risk.

With the steady numbers of railway accidents occurring throughout Australia causing railway construction professionals to reconsider how they approach their crane equipment, Hi-Rail equipment meets the safety criteria of large-scale rail infrastructure and surfacing works. Hi-Rail cranes are the most comprehensive alternative to traditional beside-rail constructions, and vastly reduce safety risks to on-site personnel, as well as bystanders.

Hi-Rail cranes have been utilised on a range of railway construction sites throughout NSW, offering safe accessibility, quick assembly, and access to railway corridors
Hi-Rail cranes offer a safer alternative to mobile cranes due to their specialised design for railway construction use.

The role of Hi-Rail equipment in modernising rail infrastructure

Sun, 23 Jul 2023 10:21:26 GMT

17/02/2023

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Introduction

Hi-Rail equipment is currently playing a key role in modernising rail infrastructure around the world. With a range of current railway construction projects progressing nationwide, each are benefiting greatly from the advantages of Hi-Rail equipment.

Due to growing population numbers and a recent surge in technological developments, there has been a significant growth for railway initiative and construction projects throughout Australia, including New South Wales.

According to the NSW Government Public Transport Patronage statistics, over 20,000 people used train systems throughout December 2022 to travel. Travel by train was the most popular method of transport for NSW throughout 2022, and there has been a steady rise since September 2021 in public transport use since COVID-19.

Australia needs railways to be more efficient, more aesthetically-pleasing, and functional, and multiple railway construction projects within NSW have identified Hi-Rail equipment as the best way to achieve these results.

Hi-Rail equipment can operate along existing tracks to allow for superior access to railway construction sites. Hi-Rail equipment offers the advantage of a compact design which is capable of traversing beneath power lines and throughout station locations.

Choosing Hi-Rail equipment for the modernisation and construction of rail infrastructures has become commonplace due to the superior level of access and safety they offer. When used for the modernisation of railways, this equipment is helping to make waves in the process of installing, maintaining, and updating railways.

What you will learn from this publication

This document aims to address three key topics:

The safety risks involved with using traditional equipment on city modernisation-based construction sites
How Hi-Rail equipment can access the tight spaces found in Sydney Metro areas, and minimise safety risks
Why railway modernisation construction sites are relying on Hi-Rail equipment to complete their project

The limitations of rail construction in NSW

Some of the target areas in the general push for NSW trainline modernisation include trainlines running through Sydney City areas. For projects like Sydney Metro, these construction efforts will require underground, tunnel, and tight-access constructions. This is where regular equipment, like telehandlers, cranes, trucks, and EWP’s must be able to navigate these small city areas.

Equipment size limitations

One of the biggest limitations that come with using traditional equipment for railway modernisation projects is size, since traditional equipment may not be compact enough to fit in these small station areas to complete construction easily.

According to an applied sciences study into railway overhead wiring structures in Australia, “When a single overhead structure fails, operation of trains will be suspended and causes economic loss to the rail company and commuters”. To prevent these issues to overhead powerlines and to provide ample access for construction equipment to work on railways, it is imperative to choose equipment which suits the size of rail corridors in Sydney’s city areas.

Rail access limitations

In order to bring traditional construction equipment to desired railways, access needs to be provided via a roadway. This equipment is then able to be navigated throughout desired sites, however movement can become difficult in small access places. If roadways are blocked or equipment is too large to operate beside railway lines, this can impact the equipment’s use in small spaces such as tunnels or bridges.

For equipment like cranes, surrounding buildings, structures, and terrain may experience limited equipment operational capabilities, even posing a safety risk to the construction worksite. Transport Sydney Trains’ Guide to Working with Sydney Trains says, “When working around and in the rail corridor it is important to consider the potential impact [and] potential limitations to the planning and delivery of your project.”

Railway safety risks

When working on railways, there are significant safety risks involved. Live power lines and tracks pose a risk to workers but navigating equipment throughout a site full of multiple obstacles can also pose a risk. As an example, completing crane work beside a track leaves possibilities for collapse or contact with overhead wires, which can be fatal. These risks are always involved when using machinery to complete railway constructions beside a track.

According to Transport Sydney Trains’ Guide to Working with Sydney Trains, “construction work carried out near Sydney Trains’ infrastructure or operations is defined as high risk.” This is in part due to the risk that operating traditional equipment can pose, since traditional construction equipment is not built or designed specifically for operation within railway areas.

How Hi-Rail equipment is modernising NSW’s trainlines

With the NSW Government in Australia allocating a further $2 billion to support Sydney Metro Construction, construction equipment that can navigate the various tight-access areas found in NSW’s railway corridors are vital due to the importance of train transport to NSW’s public transport system. As NSW train lines modernise, the equipment working on these projects must in turn do the same.

Hi-Rail equipment is designed specifically for railway use

Choosing Hi-Rail equipment to complete railway projects has become one of the best ways to ensure unlimited access, superior safety, and efficient results. It is becoming commonplace to use Hi-Rail equipment as a way to ensure site access throughout these constructions remains possible. Many of these new constructions are carried out throughout tightly-packed city areas, meaning traditional mobile or tower cranes are far less accessible.

Hi-Rail cranes are designed to operate by being placed on tracks and traveling along the railway to carry out construction where required. This specialised compact design means that risks like nearby hazards are limited, and where traditional equipment may encounter issues, Hi-Rail cranes do not.

Hi-Rail equipment is much safer to operate

Throughout the process of navigating equipment to sites, completing assembly, and operation, there are a range of safety risks involved. For railway construction equipment like cranes, using traditional equipment that is not customised to suit railway corridors may be cause for concern.

According to Safe Work Australia, “If there is a possibility of cranes colliding with other plant or structures you should position the crane to… minimise the risk of collision.” Hi-Rail cranes are able to operate within a smaller operation area, as they are fixed to the railway area of operation, therefore offering minimised risk. As previously stated, modernising railwayswill often require construction in tight spaces, and so choosing Hi-Rail is choosing equipment specialised for operation in these urban areas.

Because of the added benefits of utilising Hi-Rail equipment, many construction sites throughout NSW are utilising fixed-rail machinery to complete their work. It is vital for these construction efforts to be completed safely for personnel working on the project, and efficiently for those looking to use the new and modernised railway systems they have been anticipating.

Summary

As Australia moves towards the modernisation of train networks, work within city areas, tunnels, or bridges has become a necessary part of completing railway constructions. Within these difficult-access areas, there are a range of risks involved when working in specialised train corridors. To minimise these risks, it is important to use equipment which is more compact and capable of functioning safely within these environments.

Using Hi-Rail equipment as part of nation-wide efforts to modernise railway lines has become the safe, smart, and efficient choice. Because of the highly specialised designs and features that are part of Hi-Rail equipment, modern railway constructions can mitigate safety risks on site and ensure machinery can reach desired construction areas.

Because organisations such as Transport Sydney Trains state in their Guide to Working with Sydney Trains that it’s important to ensure an allowance for working safely near rail infrastructure and services that exist outside the rail corridor, construction teams looking to modernise railways have chosen Hi-Rail as the safest equipment option that will meet these standards.

Hi-Rail equipment now has become one of the trusted equipment options when it comes to completing railway modernisation projects throughout NSW. This is due to their specialised design that ensures safety and access to rail corridor locations.

Hi-Rail equipment is capable of completing junction upgrades, track expansions, slope stabilisation, signal works, and rail works using specialised mechanisms.
Hi-Rail equipment is trusted for railway modernisation efforts due to their specialised capabilities

Jumping to a greener track: How hi-rail cranes can help reduce the environmental footprint of the rail industry

Sun, 23 Jul 2023 09:52:17 GMT

17/02/2023

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Overview

In recent years, the environmental impact of the Australian rail industry has become of much greater concern as our understanding of the effects that carbon footprints and emissions have on rail transport and infrastructure systems have been further studied.

While rail transport offers a far more environmentally-friendly alternative to the mass emissions of other forms of automotive transport, and great strides have been made in the reduction of harmful emissions within the rail industry itself, there are still significant places in which the rail industry can utilise new strategies and technologies which have not yet been significantly studied, and that can further reduce reliance on carbon-emitting fossil fuels.

One of these methods involves utilising hi-rail cranes for works that are the source of some of the largest amount of emissions, which includes construction and rail surfacing projects which rely on traditional transport and disposal systems that use a significant amount of carbon emissions. By utilising hi-rail cranes for these projects, the rail industry can help reduce their reliance on traditional fossil fuel-powered methods while also greatly improving efficiency in many areas of railway operations – the benefits of which will be covered in this paper.

What you will learn from this publication:

This document aims to address two key topics:

The current state of national rail emissions, and why more environmentally-friendly strategies for rail transport, surfacing, and construction works are imperative
Key ways in which utilising hi-rail cranes is a useful alternative to traditional systems

Emissions in the Australian rail industry

The current state of carbon emissions from the Australian rail industry has been of significant concern as understanding of the environmental effects of national infrastructure systems has been increasingly studied. As a result of this, the Australian government has in recent years made a strong effort to both analyse and mitigate the current state of harmful carbon emissions within the national rail industry as well as other transport networks.

While rail transportation is still considered a more environmentally-friendly option than road transportation, the rail industry still contributes to a significant amount of carbon emissions. This is in part due in part to the country’s heavy reliance on outdated and fossil fuel-reliant equipment to power trains and rail construction equipment.

This issue first became a concern when a study conducted by the Sustainable Infrastructure Centre for Rail Technology (SICRT) in 2014 found that current chemical and mechanical mechanisms used for rail maintenance produce a significant amount of CO2 and other harmful emissions, and significant strategies were needed to address this growing environmental concern.

In addition, according to an MIT study of the current state of carbon emissions in rail resurfacing work, the Australian rail industry is a significant contributor to carbon emissions, especially when it comes to the use of rail resurfacing machines, which were found to emit a high level of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other pollutants during their operation. The study suggests that the use of these machines is responsible for a significant portion of the rail industry's overall emissions.

This MIT study recommends the use of alternative technologies, such as electric or hybrid machines which have lower overall emissions, as well as implementing measures such as better maintenance systems and a more efficient use of resurfacing machines to reduce emissions. Many of these solutions – along with the increasing adoption of trains powered by electric, hybrid, or renewable energy resources – have become increasingly popular within national rail programs as the industry becomes more aware of the long-term effect of harmful carbon emissions.

The Australian government is also investing in rail infrastructure and technology upgrades, such as advanced signalling systems and high-performance rail corridors, to improve the efficiency and reduce the emissions of the rail network, and, additionally, many rail operators are implementing energy-efficient practices and enacting the use of low-carbon fuels and energy-efficient technologies. However, there are still many places within the rail industry where repair and construction strategies are more environmentally-conscious and will be a benefit to the reduction of carbon emissions as a whole.

Using hi-rail cranes for emergency response and disaster recovery

As specialised cranes mounted on a railway vehicle that can travel on both rail and road, hi-rail cranes are traditionally used for a variety of rail work tasks such as track maintenance and construction, but their versatility and mobile utilities also offer a number of unique benefits when applied to the emergency response and disaster recovery operations as outlined above.

Hi-rail cranes offer a range of immediate short-term benefits to emergency response, which can also benefit by being adopted as part of major longer-term disaster plans that are being adopted by rail and infrastructure companies. Some of the key ways in which hi-rail cranes benefit disaster response include:

Versatility and mobility
Since hi-rail cranes are designed to be able to travel on both rail and road, thus allowing them to access areas that may be difficult or impossible for other types of road- or rail-based equipment to reach, this makes them particularly useful for emergency response and disaster recovery operations where quick access to affected areas is essential. For example, after a natural disaster such as a flood or a landslide, rail lines may be blocked by debris. Hi-rail cranes can quickly and safely remove this debris, allowing trains to resume service as soon as possible. Additionally, hi-rail cranes can also be used to repair and reconstruct damaged rail infrastructure, such as tracks, bridges, roads, and crossings.

Efficiency, speed, and cost-effectiveness
Another major benefit of utilising hi-rail cranes for emergency operations is the efficiency and speed that comes from their design. Hi-rail cranes are able to lift and place heavy loads, such as rail tracks and sleepers, allowing for the quick repair of damaged tracks and other infrastructure. This can significantly reduce the time required for repairs and minimize the disruption to rail service when using traditional repair equipment. In addition, hi-rail cranes are able to travel to and from emergency response and disaster recovery sites quickly, allowing them to respond to emergencies in a timely manner, which is particularly important where environmental disruptions to rail service can have significant economic consequences.

Safety
Hi-rail cranes also offer significant safety benefits for emergency operations, ensuring the safety of operators and other nearby personnel. They are designed with safety features such as stabilizers which prevent the crane from tipping over, and anti-two block systems which prevent the crane from lifting a load that is too heavy. Additionally, hi-rail cranes are operated by trained and experienced operators, who have the knowledge and skills to safely and effectively use the equipment for the often complicated and precise operations that are a part of emergency operations.

The largest sources of carbon emissions in rail works

Traditionally, the largest source of carbon emissions has been the powering and propulsion of trains themselves, with a historical reliance on diesel and fossil fuel-reliant engines. However, with the newest adoption of clean technologies for a wide selection of national urban train transport systems, this has been mitigated to a new extent. However, there are still a significant number of remaining carbon-emitting rail technologies, which include:

Equipment transportation

The transportation of rail works equipment can generate a significant amount of emissions, especially when the freight is transported in diesel-powered trains over large distances.

Construction and maintenance of rail infrastructure

The construction and maintenance of rail infrastructure, such as tracks and stations, can also contribute to emissions through the use of heavy machinery and the disposal of waste materials.

Rolling stock maintenance

The use of machinery and disposal of waste materials can lead to emissions during the maintenance of rolling stocks such as trains and railcars.

Key points in the utilisation of hi-rail cranes for lessened rail emissions

With these points to consider, utilising hi-rail cranes is an effective way to reduce remaining carbon emissions in the rail industry, especially in rail construction works where emissions are still a common concern.

As specialised vehicles that are equipped to allow them to move seamlessly between road and rail environments, hi-rail cranes are already used for a variety of tasks, including maintenance and repair work on rail infrastructure, loading and unloading freight, and emergency response along tracks. However, by further utilising hi-rail cranes for the issues outlined above, rail companies can continue to reduce emissions by eliminating the reliance on traditional systems that are harmful to the environment.

As hi-rail cranes are powered by electricity and do not require the use of any external fuel sources, they can help reduce reliance on traditional diesel-powered systems which commonly produce large amounts of carbon dioxide and other pollutants during operation. This is especially beneficial for rail construction and surfacing works, where large amounts of fuel are used to power machines that can produce a significant amount of emissions. Several of the other benefits to using hi-rail cranes for rail works that mitigate the existing environmental concerns as outlined above include:

Greater mobility for equipment transport

Hi-rail cranes help to eliminate the need for rolling stock maintenance by allowing engineers to reach out-of-service areas to repair and maintain various equipment, such as railcars and freight containers, without having to move them from their operating positions. This eliminates the need for large diesel engines that are traditionally needed to power the equipment transport, and therefore reduces the emissions of these existing systems. Furthermore, hi-rail cranes can also be used for the construction of new rail infrastructure, such as tracks and stations, mitigating the need for large diesel-powered machinery that causes significant emissions during construction works. This working example from the Sydney Metro shows just how versatile hi-rail machines can be for contractors working on rail infrastructure and the potential that they have to assist with improved productivity.

On-site equipment assembly and dismantling

Hi-rail cranes are designed to be highly mobile and versatile, allowing them to move easily between road and rail environments. This means that they can be used to assemble and dismantle equipment on job sites, rather than having to transport the equipment to a separate location for assembly and dismantling. This can reduce emissions associated with transportation, as well as the need for heavy machinery to be transported to remote locations. In addition, by using hi-rail cranes for assembly and dismantling, the need for multiple vehicles and equipment can be minimized, thus further reducing emissions.

Environmentally-friendly waste disposal
Hi-rail cranes are designed to effectively transport heavy loads over large distances while providing ease of use and minimal damage to the environment, which means that they can quickly and safely move large amounts of material away from the site, be it demolition debris, rocks, or other materials that require removal. The lack of system combustion means that air pollution is reduced significantly compared to traditional methods, making hi-rail equipment both economical and eco-friendly when compared to existing waste disposal options. Furthermore, with hi-rail technology, these cranes can easily traverse railway lines and highways for greater efficiency, so the waste disposal process doesn't have to rely on road transport.

Summary

When it comes to preventing the environmental impact of rail systems, there is no doubt that fast action is imperative. While the Australian rail industry has already made a number of significant advances in replacing strong carbon-emitting technologies, there are still a number of ways that additional steps can be taken to ensure that important sectors of rail transport, surfacing, and construction projects are not overlooked.

By adopting the use of hi-rail cranes, the environmental impact of common rail industry works such as equipment transportation, rail infrastructure construction, and rolling stock maintenance can be significantly reduced by avoiding the use of existing fuel-emitting technologies that have a strong environmental footprint. By providing hi-rail cranes to rail industries for these works, Hi-Range Crane Forks has assisted in lessening the national environmental impact that still comes from rail infrastructure and systems.

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Sun, 23 Jul 2023 07:27:16 GMT

17/02/2023

The role of hi-rail cranes in emergency and disaster response: Solutions for effective rail infrastructure repair

Overview

It’s undeniable that Australia is a country that is prone to frequent natural disasters and destructive environmental events, such as bushfires, floods, and cyclones, which can cause significant damage to infrastructure systems.

The current state of Australia’s disaster response preparedness is a complex and multi-faceted issue, and, as such, many strategies have been enacted in recent years to improve the country's ability to protect its infrastructure systems when disaster strikes. However, there are still areas of improvement that need to be addressed, particularly in the Australian rail industry and how improvements can be made for fast and efficient response solutions for damage and rail obstructions within national rail infrastructure networks.

Overall, while progress has been made in improving the rail industry’s disaster preparedness, there are still many areas of improvement that need to be addressed. These include the protection of critical infrastructure systems, the implementation of comprehensive adaptation and mitigation strategies to protect infrastructure systems against the impacts of climate change, and the coordination of greater disaster recovery efforts using new and innovative systems to mitigate the cost of infrastructure delays and equipment transport.

However, one such additional method of improving rail infrastructure’s disaster response that has not been extensively studied or proposed is the adoption of hi-rail cranes, which can be used for emergency response and transport of necessary personnel, equipment and materials in disaster-affected areas. Hi-rail cranes are typically used for track maintenance and repair, but can also be used in various other applications such as debris removal, bridge repairs and inspections, cargo delivery, loading/unloading shipments of hazardous materials, and other ways that make them a valuable addition to the rail industry’s disaster preparedness.

In this paper, we will study these benefits and the ways in which hi-rail cranes can be used in emergency response and disaster recovery operations in the rail industry. This paper will also discuss safety requirements, operational procedures, cost-efficiency, and other aspects of hi-rail crane operations in order to provide a comprehensive overview of their potential as an effective environmental response and disaster preparedness tool.

What you will learn from this publication:

This document aims to address two key topics:

The current state of Australia’s disaster preparedness and the areas of improvement when it comes to protecting rail infrastructure systems
The roles in which hi-rail cranes can provide a greater degree of facility when it comes to rail emergency response and management

The current state of disaster preparedness in Australian infrastructure

In recent years, the national rail industry has experienced several major disruptions due to large-scale natural disasters, including Cyclone Debbie in 2017, which caused extensive damage to rail lines in Queensland and New South Wales, and the 2019-2020 bushfires, which damaged large amounts of rail infrastructure in several states.

According to the Australian Journal of Emergency Management, a study by the Australian Bureau of Statistics found that in the case of floods, coastal inundation, cyclones, and storms, existing emergency response measures are not sufficient enough to properly assist in the economic and social recovery of a large number of local Australian communities. As stated by the Journal: “There is consensus within the emergency management community, governments, and those in policy-making areas, for an increased focus on proactive, effective, and value-for-money emergency management measures. [...] An increased focus on proactive emergency management measures would ensure better management of demand for the relevant services, to the greatest extent possible given the many variables that lead to emergencies.”

In addition to other forms of national infrastructure, this shortcoming in the comprehensiveness of disaster response has thus contributed to the Australian rail industry having been severely impacted by environmental disasters such as these in recent years. Catastrophic bushfires, flooding, and extreme heat have all had a major impact on the network, and many of these disasters have caused long-term disruption to national railway networks with their sudden and long-lasting damage to roads, buildings, and tracks. Destruction of this nature requires fast action and repair to avoid long-term disruptions to rail lines and related industry costs.

Climate change plays a large factor in affecting the frequency and severity of natural disasters, and there is a need for more comprehensive adaptation and mitigation strategies to protect rail infrastructure systems. The long-term mitigations for this include the design of infrastructure systems to withstand extreme weather events, and implementing early warning systems, evacuation plans, and contingency measures to minimize the damage caused by natural disasters. One of the key innovations for these solutions is to adopt the use of hi-rail cranes for these methods of immediate emergency response – the benefits of which will be discussed below.

Using hi-rail cranes for emergency response and disaster recovery

Summary

In the face of continued natural disasters and environmental emergencies that occur in Australia and affect national infrastructure systems, hi-rail cranes can be a critical tool in the emergency response and disaster recovery operations that are being implemented in large portions of the Australian rail industry. By utilising their quick response time, maneuverability, and ability to handle heavy loads, hi-rail cranes can quickly reach disaster zones and provide immediate assistance. This makes them a powerful, reliable, and cost-effective tool for addressing a wide range of issues such as debris removal and track repairs after natural disasters.

In conclusion, hi-rail cranes are an invaluable asset for emergency response and disaster recovery operations in the rail industry due to their versatility, speed, and safety features. By taking the time to ensure that their use is properly understood and managed, rail infrastructure companies can utilise these machines to minimize the economic impacts of natural disasters on the national rail infrastructure, and with their provision of hi-rail cranes for a wide range of local and national rail companies, Hi-Range Crane Forks has been a part of the remediation of weather events such as these.

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