Combi-XL (Express Loader)

As production demand for ever-larger, heavier, and more complex steel components increases, steel fabricators require material handling equipment capable of keeping pace without compromising operational safety or efficiency. From structural steel, steel sheets, sections and bridge components to heavy fabricated assemblies, moving these products safely within production areas, storage yards, and shipping operations has become one of the industry's greatest operational challenges.

Globally recognised for its engineering innovation, Irish manufacturer Combilift used the experience of its Heavy Equipment Design team. With a portfolio that includes the Combi-SC Straddle Carrier, the Combi-MG Mobile Gantry range, the Combi-LC Blade developed alongside Siemens Gamesa, and the Combi-SPI created in partnership with Spaansen, the team developed the COMBi-XL to meet the changing demands and needs of modern steel and heavy manufacturing operations.

The purpose-built COMBi-XL is a heavy-duty straddle carrier engineered for transporting exceptionally large and cumbersome steel products while integrating seamlessly into existing production environments.

Designed Around Real Operational Challenges

The development of the COMBi-XL began with a clear understanding of the material handling challenges the steel industry faces. Oversized loads often require multiple handling stages involving cranes, trailers and forklifts, creating bottlenecks, increasing safety risks and reducing productivity. Limited space, narrow access points and congested yards further add to these operational challenges, and this can also impact production schedules and increase operating costs.

The objective was to create a single, versatile solution capable of safely transporting loads from 13 to 45 tonnes (30,000 lbs to 100,000 lbs), eliminating unnecessary handling stages while improving efficiency across fabrication, storage and dispatch.

Purpose-built for heavy industry, the COMBi-XL combines exceptional lifting capacity with outstanding manoeuvrability and space efficiency. Its compact size allows for low-doorway access, enabling seamless indoor-to-outdoor operation. Combined with a reduced footprint, generous load clearance and tight turning, the COMBi-XL manoeuvres easily through restricted spaces, reducing the aisle-end turning space typically required by comparable equipment.

A single machine can safely handle a wide range of load sizes, simplifying workflows, reducing equipment requirements and maximising valuable yard space.

Engineered as a true industrial workhorse, it features robust construction, heavy-duty components and puncture-proof tyres for reliable performance on uneven ground, ramps and in demanding weather conditions. The suspension system, made of large coil springs, enhances ride quality, load stability, and provides smoother handling across challenging surfaces. Combined with its simplified, service-friendly design, the COMBi-XL minimises maintenance and maximises uptime, providing a durable, safe and efficient solution for transporting, storing and installing oversized steel structures.

Safety and Customer-Focused Design

Combilift’s customer-driven approach centred on designing a machine that could be tailored to individual customer requirements. Every COMBi-XL is configured to suit specific load dimensions, production layouts and handling applications, ensuring maximum operational performance across a wide range of steel manufacturing environments.

Safety is central in every Combilift’s product design and was also a fundamental consideration throughout the development of the COMBi-XL. Handling large steel loads can present significant visibility and operational challenges, particularly in busy fabrication workshops and congested outdoor storage yards. The COMBi-XL’s elevated cabin positioning provides operators with exceptional visibility, complemented by optional 360-degree camera technology that further enhances safety and operator awareness.

Equally important was ensuring the machine delivered measurable productivity improvements. The COMBi-XL enables steel manufacturers to streamline internal logistics by reducing unnecessary handling operations and allowing oversized products to move efficiently between fabrication, painting, storage and dispatch areas. Optional two-speed transmission technology supports faster travel and improved efficiency across larger manufacturing sites.

Reliability was another key focus. Heavy manufacturing operations demand equipment capable of continuous performance with minimal downtime. The COMBi-XL has been engineered with robust components, simplified servicing, and readily available spare parts to maximise equipment availability, reduce maintenance, and lower lifecycle costs.

Engineered for Sustainability

Another key benefit is that the COMBi-XL delivers significant environmental and operational benefits without compromising performance. Its compact footprint and lightweight design reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions compared with traditional heavy forklifts or crane-based handling methods. Its large puncture-proof tyres distribute the machine's weight evenly, minimising ground pressure and eliminating the need for costly yard resurfacing or facility expansion.

By maximising existing yard space, reducing handling stages and lowering infrastructure requirements, the COMBi-XL enables manufacturers to increase capacity while reducing both operational costs and their overall environmental footprint.

Key Features:

-Compact footprint

-Generous clearance over loads

-Tight turning radius: as little as 6 meters (240 inches) (depending on specification)

-Optimised operator visibility: Elevated cabin positioning provides excellent visibility for safer load handling.

-Grapple arms with full-length shoe for secure, even load support and enhanced stability during transport.

-Dual-speed drive motors: Optimise performance by combining high-speed travel with controlled, precise manoeuvring under heavy loads.

- Large-diameter puncture-proof tyres (14.00 x 24 ): Larger than those typically found on comparable machines, they improve stability, load distribution and durability in demanding operating environments.

-Optional standard customisation: Configurable to meet individual customer requirements (360° Camera System, Telescopic Access Ladder, Under Engine Covers, Outer Wheel Guards...)

-Optional heat-resistant configuration: Designed for handling hot steel directly from the production process, this configuration withstands temperatures of up to 500°C. It includes heat shields on hydraulic cylinders exposed to the load area, a heat shield under the engine bay, flame-retardant hydraulic fluid, and full-length front and rear wheel covers to protect the tyres and running gear from radiant heat during transport.

The COMBi-XL is available in two configurations, with either four or six wheels to suit different load capacities and accommodate varying operational requirements.

COMBi-XL4:

-Lift capacities of up to 30 tonnes (60,000lbs)

-2-wheel drive / 2-wheel braking for efficient traction and controlled, safe operation.

-4-wheel steering for superior manoeuvrability and tight turning in restricted spaces.

COMBi-XL6:

-Lift capacities of up to 45 tonnes (100,000 lbs)

-4-wheel drive / 2-wheel braking for efficient traction and controlled, safe operation.

-4-wheel steering for superior manoeuvrability and tight turning in restricted spaces.

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