100|RT: A do-it-all machine for Florida shipbuilder

A Link-Belt Cranes 100-ton 100|RT is a mainstay machine at St. Johns Shipbuilding of Palatka, Florida, about a 40-minute drive from St. Augustine.

Specializing in shipbuilding and marine repair of aluminum and steel vessels such as supply boats, barges, and ferries, St. Johns supplies both domestic and international customers. Featuring an 850-ton dry dock, a 400-foot launch basin, and two rail launch systems along with complete carpentry, electrical, and machine shops, St. Johns keeps a busy site.

The addition of the 100|RT to its fleet has been a gamechanger, assisting with heavy lifts of all kinds across the 98-acre shipyard.

St. Johns operator Robert “Bert” Thorn said the 100|RT is incredibly versatile. He said it’s easy to operate and always ready to work.

“With a Link-Belt, you get in it and go,” Thorn said.

He added that the rough terrain crane handles picks involving various fabrication parts, including bulkheads, deck plates, and other modules, with ease. In terms of machine quality, he said its tech, specifically its user-friendly Pulse 2.0 computer system, is standout.

“If you know how to operate a crane, you could operate that computer,” Thorn said. “It’s in a league of its own.”

Additionally, he said the 100|RT is easy to maneuver throughout the yard, noting that confined spaces are no problem. Best of all, he said the crane really shines when used as a workhorse, going from job to job.

When work demands, he said it’s not uncommon to run the 100|RT for the entire workday. It doesn’t seem to mind.

“We can run it all day every day,” Thorn said. “We’ve never had an issue with it.”