Motion Control & Drives


Redefining industrial lifting

May 2025 Motion Control & Drives

The Konecranes S-series hoist redefines industrial lifting through its integration of a ground-breaking synthetic rope with smart features, a lifting capacity of 20 tons and the ability to adapt to diverse girder configurations. “It is a perfect example of where advanced technology delivers a superior design, durable material selections, stepless hoisting and safety enhancements that not only optimise load handling, but also mitigate structural twisting and wear, in addition to reducing maintenance requirements,” says Ian Grobler, sales manager for Konecranes and Demag, South Africa. “With a low headroom option offering increased versatility and features such as a thrust rocker, a smart design that leads to reduced steel consumption, and a decrease in environmental impact, the S-series is most definitely an industry game changer.”

Mechanical wear minimised

Before launching the S-series, Konecranes conducted thousands of hours of testing to ensure safety and durability. The completely redesigned hoist structure provides a smooth and stable lifting whilst minimising wear and tear on receiving parts.

Synthetic rope

The synthetic rope reduces wear on the drum and reeving components due to less surface pressure and friction. It is more durable than steel wire and does not require lubrication, reducing maintenance costs. It is also easier and safer to handle due to its lighter weight and it does not fray or produce the sharp barbs common on steel wire rope, reducing the chance of hand injuries. Synthetic rope is also less vulnerable for traditional rope defects such as bird-caging or kinks, reducing replacement costs and maximising productivity.

Commitment to sustainability

Environmental sustainability is a fundamental focus of Konecranes’ product design. The S-series normal headroom hoist is significantly lighter than previous corresponding hoist models due to an optimised design and materials selections thereby consuming fewer raw materials and reducing climate impact.

Grobler said that the use of synthetic rope and guide rollers in the S-series hoist amplifies its performance and resilience whilst simultaneously reducing maintenance requirements. In addition, the in-house designed and manufactured gears and motors and adopted inverter lifting technology enable precise motor speed control and optimised hoisting energy consumption.

Truconnect Remote monitoring provides real-time data for operations and maintenance planning, delivers enhanced reliability, reduced environmental impact associated with unexpected downtime and an extended equipment lifetime.

“Companies such as Hakkers, a Dutch company specialising in hydraulic engineering and steel construction, Hitachi Energy in the Czech Republic known for stringent cleanliness standards in the manufacturing of gas-insulated conductors, and the LTC Group based in the UAE which has opened a new production facility, all utilise the S-series hoists and cranes. These companies are a testament to Konecranes’ investment in digitalisation and technology. Our our ambition is to make work flows more efficient with solutions that decarbonise the economy, advance circularity and improve safety,” concluded Grobler.




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