Palfinger Adds 26 Metre PFM 1200 Marine Crane
- Meagan Wood
- Aug 24
- 9 min read
30 Second Takeaway
Palfinger has expanded its marine crane portfolio with the new PFM 1200, developed for aquaculture service vessels and workboats requiring greater outreach with a relatively low crane weight. The new model provides more than 26 metres of outreach and can lift 1,820kg at maximum reach in winch mode. A high speed boom extension system is designed to shorten operating cycles during repetitive deck and aquaculture work. The first unit has been ordered through Bergen Hydraulic for Frøy Akvaressurs and will replace an existing crane aboard the service vessel Frøy Fighter, providing 4.8 metres of additional outreach without requiring extensive structural modifications to the vessel.
New Marine Crane for Aqu Aquaculture Operations
The PFM 1200 has been developed as a purpose built marine crane for the changing requirements of vessels supporting fish farms and other aquaculture operations.
These vessels perform frequent lifting tasks involving equipment, materials and infrastructure positioned on the vessel, at floating production sites or in the water.
Typical aquaculture crane operations cover:
Handling fish farm nets
Moving mooring equipment
Deploying anchors and lines
Loading feed and bulk bags
Handling pumps and treatment equipment
Moving workboats and smaller deck equipment
Supporting diving and remotely operated vehicle operations
Lifting maintenance components
Transferring materials between vessels and cages
The lifting requirement can change significantly during a single working day. The crane must therefore combine reach, load handling, positioning control and resistance to the marine environment.
More Than 26 Metres of Outreach
The Palfinger PFM 1200 provides a maximum outreach of more than 26 metres.
At full extension, the crane can handle up to 1,820kg in winch mode.
This allows loads to be lowered or recovered beyond the vessel’s deck area while the crane remains mounted in a fixed position.
Long outreach can be particularly important when a service vessel must remain a safe distance from:
Fish cages
Mooring lines
Nets
Floating walkways
Feed barges
Other vessels
Subsea equipment
The published 1,820kg capacity applies at maximum outreach in the stated winch configuration. Capacity at other boom lengths and operating radii will be defined by the crane’s complete load chart.
Winch Mode Supports Below Surface Handling
In winch mode, the load is suspended from a wire rope running through the crane’s boom tip rather than directly from a hook mounted at the end of the boom system. This arrangement allows the crane to lower equipment below deck level and into the water without changing the boom geometry for the entire vertical movement.
Winch operation supports tasks such as:
Subsea equipment deployment
Pump handling
Anchor installation
Net and mooring work
Equipment recovery
Diving support
Transferring loads to lower deck levels
The crane’s maximum working load depends on the boom configuration, operating radius, winch arrangement, reeving and applicable marine operating limits. Vessel motion, sea conditions and dynamic loading must also be considered when planning an offshore or aquaculture lift.
P Profile Boom Provides Structural Rigidity
The PFM 1200 incorporates Palfinger’s patented P Profile boom design.
Rather than using a conventional rectangular boom section, the design uses a multi sided profile intended to improve structural stiffness while controlling the amount of material required.
In a marine crane, boom rigidity contributes to accurate load positioning at longer outreach.
Deflection becomes increasingly important as the boom extends because movement at the crane structure can translate into greater hook movement at the boom tip.
The boom design is also intended to help Palfinger balance three competing requirements:
Greater outreach
Required lifting capacity
Reduced crane weight
Maintaining that balance is important on vessels where deck loading, stability and available installation space are limited.
High Speed Extension Shortens Operating Cycles
The PFM 1200 features a high speed extension system designed to reduce the time required to telescope the boom. Aquaculture vessels can perform a large number of lifting movements during a working shift. Reducing the time needed to extend and retract the boom can shorten the complete operating cycle, particularly during repetitive work.
A typical cycle can involve:
Positioning the crane above a deck load
Connecting the lifting equipment
Hoisting the load
Extending or slewing the boom
Lowering the load into position
Disconnecting the rigging
Retracting the boom
Returning for the next load
Faster extension does not change the requirement for controlled movement as the load approaches personnel, vessel structures or aquaculture equipment.
Designed for Larger Service Vessels and Workboats
Palfinger developed the PFM 1200 in response to the increasing size and capability of aquaculture support vessels. Larger vessels can carry more equipment and complete a wider range of offshore tasks, but they can also create greater lifting distances between the crane pedestal and the working area.
Marine operators are therefore seeking cranes that provide:
Longer outreach
Useful capacity at maximum reach
Lower crane weight
Compact installation
Faster operating cycles
Durable marine construction
Easier replacement of existing equipment
Palfinger said maintaining compatible mounting interfaces was also an important development requirement. This allows vessel owners to replace an existing crane without rebuilding a substantial section of the vessel.
First Unit Ordered for Frøy Fighter
The first PFM 1200 has been ordered by Bergen Hydraulic for Frøy Akvaressurs.
The crane will be installed on the aquaculture service vessel Frøy Fighter. Delivery of the first unit was scheduled for September 2026. Once installed, the PFM 1200 will replace an existing Palfinger PK 150002 M.
The new crane provides 4.8 metres more outreach than the unit it replaces while also reducing overall crane weight in the vessel specific configuration.
The additional reach will allow the vessel’s crew to position loads farther from the crane foundation without moving the vessel or relying on another lifting arrangement.
Existing Bolt Pattern Simplifies Installation
For the Frøy Fighter installation, the PFM 1200 retains the same mounting bolt pattern as the existing PK 150002 M. The crane can therefore be connected through the vessel’s established mounting interface. This reduces the extent of structural modification required for the replacement.
A marine crane upgrade still requires technical confirmation of:
Pedestal capacity
Deck structure
Bolt configuration
Hydraulic supply
Electrical connections
Control integration
Crane weight
Centre of gravity
Vessel stability
Applicable classification requirements
Using the same bolt pattern addresses an important part of the installation but does not remove the need for engineering review and commissioning.
Reduced Weight Supports Vessel Integration
Palfinger has not yet published a complete weight specification for the new model, but it states that the Frøy Fighter crane will weigh less than the unit it replaces. Crane weight affects the vessel both structurally and operationally. A heavier crane introduces additional loading into the deck and supporting pedestal. Its position above the waterline can also affect vessel stability and centre of gravity. Reducing crane weight while increasing reach can support the retrofit by limiting additional demands on the existing vessel structure.
The final effect must be confirmed through the vessel’s stability assessment and approved installation documentation.
Marine Conditions Influence Crane Design
Aquaculture cranes operate in an environment involving saltwater, spray, humidity and repeated exposure to changing weather. Components must be selected and protected for these conditions.
Areas requiring attention include:
Structural corrosion protection
Hydraulic hose and fitting protection
Electrical enclosure sealing
Wire rope inspection
Lubrication
Fastener condition
Cylinder protection
Control system reliability
Drainage
Maintenance access
The PFM 1200 is designed as a rigid and durable marine crane for recurring service operations.Its continuing reliability will depend on inspection, maintenance and servicing in accordance with Palfinger’s instructions and the vessel’s operating requirements.
Testing Before Vessel Delivery
The PFM 1200 has undergone testing at Palfinger’s facility before delivery.
Testing allows the manufacturer to confirm operation of the crane’s structural, hydraulic and control systems.
The process can cover:
Boom extension
Slewing
Hoisting and lowering
Hydraulic pressures
Control response
Safety systems
Load monitoring
Limit functions
Winch operation
Emergency controls
Further inspection and commissioning will be required after the crane is installed on the vessel. This final stage confirms the interaction between the crane, vessel structure, hydraulic supply, electrical system and operating controls.
Aquaculture Requires Specialised Vessel Equipment
Aquaculture involves the farming of aquatic organisms including fish, shellfish and algae.
Commercial operations can use floating cages, nets, feed systems, treatment equipment and extensive mooring arrangements. Service vessels support these installations through construction, inspection, maintenance and daily operation. Crane work can take place close to personnel, live fish stocks, nets and floating infrastructure.
Equipment selection must account for:
Restricted deck space
Vessel movement
Dynamic loading
Saltwater exposure
Long outreach
Frequent operating cycles
Load control above water
Subsea handling
Remote locations
The PFM 1200 has been positioned specifically for this vessel and operating environment.
PFM Series Continues to Expand
The new PFM 1200 joins Palfinger’s existing PFM marine crane family.
The range covers:
PFM 1200
PFM 1500
PFM 2100
PFM 2500
PFM 3500
PFM 4500
Palfinger is also developing the PFM 3700 and PFM 4800.
The two upcoming models will represent the next generation of the existing PFM 3500 and PFM 4500 crane classes. The expanded range allows vessel designers and operators to select models according to required load moment, outreach, installation area and vessel capacity. Different PFM models can also be combined within a vessel equipment package where separate cranes are required for different duties.
PFM 3700 and PFM 4800 Previewed at SMM
Palfinger introduced the PFM 1200 ahead of SMM 2026, held in Hamburg from September 1 to 4. The company scheduled the PFM series as a central part of its display at Booth 422 in Hall A1. Alongside the PFM 1200, Palfinger planned an early preview of the new PFM 3700 and PFM 4800.
Its wider SMM display included:
PK 25.001 M foldable knuckle boom crane
FRSQ 850 fast rescue boat scale model
Hydraulic A frame davit
Marine service information
Spare parts support
Inspection and maintenance services
Crane upgrade solutions
SMM is an international exhibition covering shipbuilding, marine equipment and maritime technology.
Development Supports Palfinger Strategy 2030 Plus
Palfinger said the expansion of the PFM family forms part of its Strategy 2030 Plus.
The strategy includes development of integrated lifting solutions, expansion of the marine product portfolio and lifecycle support for equipment after delivery. Palfinger’s marine operations cover cranes, winches, lifting systems, lifesaving equipment, boats and davits.
The PFM programme strengthens its crane offering for aquaculture, offshore and specialist vessel applications.
Klaus Schreiber, vice president of sales and service for Marine and Special Solutions at Palfinger, said:
“The requirements for service vessels and workboats are continuously evolving.”
“With the PFM 1200, we are closing a gap in our portfolio and providing customers with exactly the combination of outreach, lifting performance, and durability they need today.”
About Palfinger Marine
Palfinger Marine develops and supplies lifting, handling and lifesaving equipment for marine and offshore operations.
Its portfolio includes:
Marine cranes
Offshore cranes
Wind cranes
Winches
Davits
Lifeboats
Rescue boats
Lifting and handling equipment
Slipway systems
Passenger transfer systems
Marine service solutions
The business serves the offshore, oil and gas, merchant shipping, cargo, passenger, governmental, offshore wind and aquaculture markets. Palfinger developed its first marine cranes in 1992 and subsequently expanded through product development and acquisitions.
Its international service network provides parts, inspection, maintenance, repair and equipment upgrade support.
Marine website: Palfinger Marine
About Palfinger
Palfinger AG is an international manufacturer of lifting and material handling equipment headquartered in Bergheim, Austria. The company was founded in 1932 and produces equipment for road, construction, forestry, recycling, transport, railway, marine and offshore applications.
Its product portfolio includes:
Loader cranes
Marine and offshore cranes
Aerial work platforms
Hookloaders
Skiploaders
Truck mounted forklifts
Tail lifts
Railway equipment
Boats and davits
Material handling systems
Palfinger employs approximately 12,000 people and operates around 30 manufacturing facilities supported by an international distribution and service network. Palfinger AG has been listed on the Vienna Stock Exchange since 1999 and reported revenue of approximately €2.34 billion for 2025.
Company website: www.palfinger.com
About Bergen Hydraulic
Bergen Hydraulic AS is a Norwegian supplier of hydraulic cranes and equipment for aquaculture, fishing, marine and offshore operations. Founded in 1979, the company provides crane supply, hydraulic system engineering, control systems, commissioning and aftermarket support. Bergen Hydraulic employs a team of approximately 29 people and operates as part of the KIS Group. The company supports customers through KIS service locations across Norway and the Netherlands. Bergen Hydraulic ordered the first PFM 1200 for installation on Frøy Fighter.
Company website: www.bghyd.no
About Frøy
Frøy is a Norwegian provider of vessel services to the aquaculture industry.
The company operates service vessels, wellboats, treatment vessels, freight vessels and diving support vessels.
Its services cover:
Aquaculture service work
Marine transport
Remotely operated vehicle operations
Diving
Delousing and fish treatment
Mooring installation
Seabed mapping
Inspection
Certification
Towing
Frøy describes itself as Norway’s largest specialist aquaculture service organisation and an integrated vessel partner within the fish farming supply chain.
Frøy Akvaressurs will operate the first PFM 1200 aboard the service vessel Frøy Fighter.
Company website: www.froygruppen.no
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Palfinger PFM 1200?
The PFM 1200 is a new marine crane developed for service vessels and workboats, particularly those operating in the aquaculture sector.
What is its maximum outreach?
The crane provides maximum outreach of more than 26 metres.
How much can it lift at maximum outreach?
It can lift up to 1,820kg at maximum outreach in winch mode.
What is winch mode?
Winch mode suspends the load from wire rope running through the boom tip, allowing equipment to be lowered below deck level or into the water.
What vessel will receive the first crane?
The first PFM 1200 will be installed on Frøy Fighter, operated by Frøy Akvaressurs.
Who ordered the first unit?
The crane was ordered by Norwegian marine crane and hydraulic equipment supplier Bergen Hydraulic.
Which crane will it replace?
It will replace an existing Palfinger PK 150002 M.
How much additional outreach will it provide?
The PFM 1200 will provide 4.8 metres more outreach than the crane it replaces.
Will the vessel require major structural modifications?
Palfinger said the vessel specific PFM 1200 uses the same mounting bolt pattern as the existing crane, reducing the need for extensive structural modifications.
What other models are in the PFM range?
The current range covers the PFM 1500, PFM 2100, PFM 2500, PFM 3500 and PFM 4500, along with the new PFM 1200.
Are more PFM models planned?
Yes. Palfinger is developing the PFM 3700 and PFM 4800.
Where was the PFM 1200 formally presented?
Palfinger introduced the model ahead of SMM 2026 in Hamburg, where the PFM range formed a central part of its marine equipment display.
