ALE has launched lightweight service crane for lifting in confined spaces on offshore and civil construction projects. Its latest design is for a relatively small crane that can be positioned right in there close to the action. As the first in a series the new model is the smallest, lifting 6 tonne to a 12 m radius. Its light weight is by virtue of the fact that it is all made of aluminium.Other models are planned, including larger steel ones that can be doubled up (two units side by side) to give a capacity of 180 tonnes.

Its modular components can be assembled by hand and, with the vertical mast erected, this can be used to self-build the rest of the crane. Each part can fit in an elevator and be moved along access walkways or up and down stairs. The heaviest piece, at 90 kg, is the ring and winches while all the other components are a maximum of 25 kg and can be carried by hand.