Konecranes S series hoist brings intelligent solutions to enhance operator safety and productivity
Crane safety is not optional—it’s essential. That’s the message from Ian Grobler, Sales Manager for Konecranes and Demag South Africa, as the company launches its cutting-edge Konecranes S series hoist, packed with smart technologies designed to elevate both safety and operational performance.
Raising the Bar for Safety
“The S series hoist introduces a host of smart features that significantly reduce the risk of operator error and mechanical failure,” Grobler explains. “Companies that overlook crane safety are taking enormous risks. One incident can have severe consequences—financially, operationally, and, most importantly, in terms of human life.”
A standout innovation in the S series is Konecranes’ patented synthetic wire rope, known for its superior strength, reduced weight, and extended lifespan—especially advantageous for light to medium lifting operations where safety and minimal maintenance are key.
Intelligent Features that Enhance Control
Konecranes offers a suite of smart features designed to provide operators with advanced control over every lift. These features can be tailored to suit specific industry needs:
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Slack Rope Prevention: Prevents the lifting device from tilting or falling by stopping the hoist ropes from going slack when using tools such as coil tongs or lifting beams.
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Microspeed and Inching: Ideal for high-precision assembly work. Microspeed allows for slow, exact movements, while inching enables small incremental load shifts.
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Working Limits: Creates temporary safety zones, especially useful when transport vehicles move through production areas.
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Protected Areas: Designates no-go zones for the crane, preventing collisions during regular offloading or uploading activities.
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Sway and Active Sway Control: Regulates acceleration and deceleration of the bridge and trolley, ensuring precise load placement while reducing the risk of damage.
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Snag Prevention: Instantly stops crane movement if the hook, sling, or load snags—protecting both equipment and surroundings.
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Target Positioning: Automates the movement of loads from home positions to up to 120 preset destinations, cutting down on cycle times and enhancing consistency.
Enhanced Performance and Reduced Wear
Other built-in smart features such as Hook Centering, Follow Me, Advanced Speed and Extended Range, Load Floating, and Hoisting Synchronisation not only boost safety but also reduce mechanical wear, leading to longer crane life and lower maintenance costs.
Importantly, all these features are integrated into the S series and can also be retrofitted to existing crane models.
Safety Through Customisation
Konecranes adopts a consultative approach, working closely with clients to customise a package of smart features based on specific production requirements.
“Our consultative process ensures we deliver practical safety and performance improvements,” Grobler says. “We don’t just sell equipment—we provide solutions that empower operators, boost efficiency, and create a safer work environment.”
A Commitment to Safe Lifting
Konecranes stands by its guiding philosophy: “Everyone home safe, every day.” With its S series and full suite of smart technologies, the company is redefining what’s possible in safe and intelligent lifting.
