Over the Roof to the Objective: The PK 580 TEC Masters the Most Demanding Lifting Tasks

In spring 2025, Robert Gruber faced a tricky assignment. On a new multi-unit residential building in Salzburg, balcony railings — each weighing up to 220 kg — had to be mounted on the rear façade. Access there was severely restricted: closely spaced trees, utility covers with limited load capacity, and rain-softened ground made it impossible to position the crane conventionally. The solution was obvious: hoist the balcony sections up to 30 meters over the roof to the back of the building. Gruber handled the job with his usual poise, relying on the rear-mounted PALFINGER PK 580 TEC with fly jib and winch, installed on a three-axle Mercedes-Benz Actros.

Challenging lifting scenarios call for smart solutions

For Robert Gruber — who has operated cranes for many years — lifting, slewing and precisely positioning heavy loads is second nature, whether mounting railings, moving steel panels or loading ships on Lake Obertrum in the Salzburg flatlands. Because of his extensive experience, he especially values the technical innovations of PALFINGER’s new TEC series: “When you’re lifting a load over a roof with the winch, you can’t always see both the crane and the cargo. You need to trust the crane to alert you if, for example, it loses pressure on one of the outriggers. HPSC-Plus GEOM is an invaluable feature in situations like this,” Gruber explains. “I have complete confidence in my PK 580 TEC.”

Even in confined spaces, HPSC-Plus GEOM shows its strength. By monitoring the length-measuring cable, the system always knows the exact position of the extension boom and precisely calculates the center of gravity of the boom and the load. This enables it to determine the tipping moment reliably — even when the TEC crane is operating at its maximum lifting capacity.

Another innovative feature that impresses the seasoned operator is the winch options on his PK 580 TEC. The Synchronised Rope Control (SRC) maintains a constant distance between the sheave head and the hook block, making lifts safer and more efficient. The Rope Tension Control (RTC), an automatic rope-tensioning device, assists with boom extension and retraction, significantly reducing setup time. “These convenient functions really simplify my work and add genuine value in daily operations.”

Intelligent support for precise, efficient work

With the TEC series, PALFINGER sets a new standard in operator comfort. A multitude of smart assistance systems boost efficiency, enhance usability and ensure pinpoint control.

The combination of the PALTRONIC 180 electronic control unit, the LX-6 control valve and the innovative P-profile extension system delivers more sensitive handling and unprecedented precision and efficiency.

The P-profile on the TEC loader cranes makes the entire extension system both exceptionally stable and lightweight — allowing trucks to carry more payload — and keeps maintenance requirements to a minimum.

Paired with the high-end PALcom P7 radio remote control, crane operators enjoy maximum command over their TEC loader crane, executing every movement more precisely and quickly, even at full boom outreach.

“I love the variety and working outdoors,” Robert Gruber summarizes. “With the PK 580 TEC, I can complete my tasks even more effectively and efficiently.”