Link-Belt 248 HSLs work dam renovation projects

Two Link-Belt Cranes 200-ton 248 HSL lattice crawlers complete dam renovation projects as part of an $82 million infrastructure contract. Led by Sundt Construction, headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, the projects are anticipated for completion by the end of 2025.

The cranes are working to renovate and replace major sections of the Lake Placid and Lake McQueeney dams, both located east of San Antonio along the Guadalupe River, designed to improve gate technology, enhance mechanical operation and electrical distribution, as well as achieve compliance with various Texas state safety requirements. Due to the nature of the work, it was necessary to build temporary trestles for several operations.

Sundt project engineer Halen Hartley said the 248 HSL was the optimal machine for the job on account of its footprint and capacities. A larger crane would’ve required wider trestles, causing problems when handling crest gate sections weighing up to 62,000 pounds rigged.

“The 200-ton 248 HSL is a good size with the best footprint for the work,” Hartley said. “Everything was well matched to the 248 HSL, including the work structures.”

Operator David Rickman operated the 248 HSL at the Lake Placid work site, driving pile and setting crest gates. He commended the crane for its mobility and capacity to pick and carry and operate without outriggers.

“One of the great things about this crane is its crawler crane capability with no need for outriggers,” Rickman said. “It’s mobile, and I can pick and carry if I need to.”

He noted the 248 HSL’s multifunctioning abilities and capacity to smoothly boom and swing as proof of its advantage compared to competing machines.

“This is one of the smoothest cranes I’ve run in 30 years,” Rickman said. “This 248 HSL Link-Belt is one of my all-time favorite machines.”