Link-Belt 238 HSL assists $70 million renovation project at the University of Kentucky

Superior Steel Inc. of Knoxville, Tennessee, is utilizing a Link-Belt Cranes 150-ton 238 HSL lattice crawler crane as part of a $70 million renovation project on-campus at the University of Kentucky’s Scovell Hall.

Delivered and set up in early 2025, the 238 HSL is lifting 650 tons of steel into place for the renovation project. Because of the tight job site conditions, the crane was fitted with 160 feet of main boom and a 40-foot jib to maximize its reach and work from the east side of the build.

Superior crane operator Thomas Hughlett said the 238 HSL has handled every task required by the job seamlessly, working up to 12 hours a day.

“It’s been performing great for us,” Hughlett said. “It does everything it needs to do and more.”

He said the machine’s versatility, capacities, and ability to track in a compact work site make it the perfect crane for the project, scheduled for completion in early 2026. Paired with the crane’s helpful camera package, its smooth and responsive winch multifunctioning capabilities as well as its simple LMI system, Hughlett said he’d recommend the 238 HSL time and time again, particularly for steel erection and concrete-based jobs.

“It’s all straightforward,” Hughlett said of the crane’s LMI interface. “Everything you need’s right there in front of you at an easy glance.”