Sennebogen 8130EQ Material Handler
When it comes to unusual looking machines, the 8130EQ balance handler is certainly up there, designed for the efficient loading and unloading of ships, it is an ideal workhorse on the dockside or scrap yard while also able to handle timber loading applications with ease. The equilibrium geometry of the arm and rear counterweight maintains the centre of gravity over the centre of the machine at all times allowing loads of up to 10 ton at a depth of 8 metres below ground to be achieved while reaching an impressive 27 metres of reach.
Presented here is the 1:50th scale Sennebogen 8130EQ material handler which has been produced by Ros who have fully captured all the details and functionality of the real machine very well. Out of the box, you have two different undercarriage options to select with an individually linked tracked undercarriage already fitted to the model. Optionally, you can convert the model into a stationary pedestal machine.
The undercarriage features long track frames with individually linked track pads which are tensioned so are fairly hard to rotate. The surface detailing added to the track frames is good, including the access steps modelled in their folded position.
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The main column has raised bolt fixing details on the joining rings with a very nicely etched platform half way up the column. It is a pity that all the safety railings are made from a flexible plastic although they are reasonably scaled and don't detract from the aesthetic appearance. The entire upper structure rotates through 360 degrees with a ladder fitted below the structure allowing operator access to the cabin and control housing through a non-functional trap door. |
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The control module housing has a detachable roof allowing the simply modelled interior components to be seen and this is a nice touch. The exterior structure has been accurately modelled with textured side panels and silver highlighted vents. A number of square shaped floodlights have been added around the model and these can be adjusted vertically which shows good attention to detail by Ros. |
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The raised cabin has good replication of the painted interior showing the driver's seat and controls. The exterior of the cabin has side walkways and an interestingly designed Mastercab front frame giving an unobstructed view of the work area.
The range of movement of the arm and boom is authentic although the weight of the metal boom and arm cannot be maintained by the main hydraulic lift cylinder so a pin is included allowing the boom height to be set in several different positions. The arm is much stiffer and can hold any position chosen.
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A service access ladder has been added, complete with curved safety cage allowing personnel access to the arm where a safety bar is fitted, running along the length of the arm allowing a safety harness to be secured and this is a nice added detail.
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The opening clamshell fitted to the arm features 360 degree rotation with added hydraulic lines for realism. |
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The paint finish of the model is very good with excellent definition of the printed markings and logos. Sennebogen should be commended for commissioning such an unusual model and, while there is a fair amount of plastic used including all the safety railings, there are also some very nice additions including the photo-etched walkways and choice of tracked or stationary base.
