Hammar launches new Sideloaders

Hammar will launch two new models this year – the Hammar 550 and the Hammar 500 – as part of its significant anniversary celebration.

The year 2024 marks 50 years since Bengt-Olof Hammar developed the first Hammar Sideloader.

Hammar 550

According to the company, the Hammar 550 model has a 50-tonne Safe Working Load. Initially developed for handling large cable drums, the design can be used for many more applications.

The Hammar 550 Drum Loader is a new version of Hammar’s existing design, using the latest technology to achieve a higher lifting capacity and improve the handling area. It is designed to be able to handle cable drums weighing up to 50 tonnes – 5 tonnes more than any other Hammar model sideloader and 15 tonnes more than previous Drum Loaders.

The Hammar 550 can handle drums up to 4-metres wide and 4.65 metres in diameter. Drums are lifted using an hydraulic spreader that lifts the drums from their center axle.

Even though it is similar to previous models, the cranes consists of completely new parts.The unique drum chassis has also been upgraded with reinforcements, more steel, and adapted for 4 axles. The Hammar 550 Drum Loader can be powered by hydraulics on a tractor unit or separate motor.

“The Hammar 550 is a big step forward in broadening the Sideloader market and expanding what Sideloaders are used for. It has been developed for loads that are heavier and larger than any other Sideloader has previously been able to handle,” says Bengt-Olof Hammar, CEO, and owner.

The first Hammar 550 will be built in the second quarter of 2024 and will handle cable drums in the UK, with the most extreme weights at 50 tonnes.

Hammar 500

Another major innovation is Hammar’s new flagship model, the Hammar 500. The Hammar 500 is based on a range of proven technologies that have been merged and improved.

The model is equipped with a crane extension, enabling it to lift a load fully 6 metres from the trailer. Support legs provide significantly increased stability.

These features allow for a large handling area that, for example, enables the stacking of containers two high and two rows deep, with a capacity approximately equivalent to 100 tonne-metres.

The 500’s support legs will have three different operating positions providing great versatility:

StepOver mode provides maximum stability with a range of 3.85m and allows for maximizing the load capacity at maximum extension. In this mode, more than 15 tonnes can be lifted at maximum extension. Additionally, the mode functions well for transferring loads from chassis and railway wagons.

Dock mode provides high stability and allows lifting to 7 tonnes outside the support legs. This mode can be utilised in various situations where there is limited space to place the support legs. It can also be used at different vertical heights, such as on top of a loading dock.

Sledge mode is fast and simple, making it ideal for quick and straightforward lifts. It is faster to position and suitable for situations where speed is a priority.

Offered with 36 or 45 tonnes Safe Working Load, the first Hammar 500 will be presented at Lastbil 2024 in Jönköping and at the IAA Transportation Exhibition in Germany.

“The Shark” is still operating

Hammar Maskin AB was founded in 1974, and the first Hammarlift was built in the same year. This first unit was later nicknamed “The Shark” due to its registration number HAJ 789. “Haj” translates to “shark” in Swedish. “The Shark” can still be operated and lift heavy containers.

“Performing the first lifts with the first Sideloader I built is one of my strongest memories during my 50-year journey with the company,” says Bengt-Olof Hammar.

Throughout the last 50 years, this family-owned company has grown into a global player and has had one single focus: Sideloaders. This dedicated focus has earned the company an estimated 65-70% share of the global Sideloader market.

The model program has grown from two to seven different models, and the Safe Working Load has increased from 30 to 45 tonnes.

“As long as the use of containers continues to increase, and companies are looking for more efficient and versatile logistics solutions, Hammar will continue to grow. We very much look forward to continuing to be the driving force in the industry, with a focus on service, innovation, quality, and sustainability,” says Bengt-Olof.