PATERSON SIMONS ENGINEERS COMPLETE ACCREDITED FOGMAKER INSTALLATION & TROUBLESHOOTING TRAINING IN GHANA
In May 2025, Paterson Simons engineers from Ghana, Nigeria, and Togo successfully completed the Fogmaker Installation and Troubleshooting Training held in Tema, Ghana, from 24 to 28 May 2025.
Delivered by Fogmaker International trainer Martin Lindblom, the intensive programme combined both theoretical and practical modules designed to equip participants with advanced technical knowledge in high-pressure water mist fire suppression systems.
The training covered all key aspects of Fogmaker technology – from installation, inspection, and system recharging to risk assessment and compliance documentation. Participants learned to master critical steps such as system layout design, nozzle selection, pipework installation, electrical connections, and component mounting within engine compartments and enclosed areas.
During the hands-on sessions, engineers installed complete Fogmaker systems, connecting piston accumulators, detector bottles, nozzles, alarm systems, and activation buttons, gaining valuable experience in full system assembly and troubleshooting.
This re-certification allows Paterson Simons to sell, maintain, certify and install Fogmaker fire suppression systems across the region – enhancing the company’s ability to support customers in port, mining, and industrial environments where fire safety and uptime are critical.
Participants described the training as highly practical and informative, helping them strengthen their technical confidence and understanding of system installation from the ground up.
By investing in such specialised training, Paterson Simons reinforces its long-standing commitment to safety, reliability, and technical excellence across West and Central Africa.
Congratulations to the participants and thank you to trainer Martin Lindblom.
GROVE INTRODUCES NEW PLUG-IN HYBRID ALL-TERRAIN CRANES TO POWER THE FUTURE
In September our team attended Vertikal Days, where they had the opportunity to learn about the latest Grove plug-in hybrid all-terrain cranes, including the innovative GMK5150XLe. Paul Rogers from Manitowoc guided our team through a detailed inspection of the new Grove GMK 5150 XLe hybrid crane – an innovative model that combines sustainable performance with Manitowoc’s proven lifting expertise!
Manitowoc is setting a new standard for sustainable heavy lifting with the launch of its latest Grove Plug-in Hybrid all-terrain cranes. The new models, the Grove GMK5150L-1e and GMK5150XLe, combine Grove’s proven five-axle carrier platform with a fully electrified superstructure. They deliver the same lifting performance as their diesel counterparts while offering cleaner and quieter operation.
Key features include:
- Battery-powered operation: Equipped with a battery pack of approximately 180 kWh, the cranes can carry out several hours of emission-free lifting.
- Flexible charging options: Operators can recharge via the grid (AC/DC), through a 170 kW integrated generator in the carrier, or while driving.
- Extended electric operation: When connected to the grid, the cranes can work for up to 20 hours in electric mode without compromising speed or capacity.
- Uncompromised lifting performance: Boom lengths, load charts, and structural capabilities remain consistent with traditional diesel models, ensuring no loss of performance.
- Reduced noise and emissions: Electric operation significantly lowers noise levels and emissions, making these cranes ideal for urban projects and environmentally sensitive sites.
More than just a “green option”:
These new hybrid cranes go beyond being environmentally friendly alternatives. They signal a shift in crane technology and operations:
- Sustainability in practice: Battery-powered operation and grid charging help operators reduce their carbon footprint and comply with tightening environmental standards.
- Operational flexibility: The ability to charge on the move or through the onboard generator removes the limitations of charging infrastructure.
- Industry leadership: With these innovations, Grove continues to reinforce its position at the forefront of electrified crane technology and mobile crane engineering.
See photo below of Qian Robertson, Parts Co-ordinator, at Vertikal Days learning about the innovative GMK5150XLe with thanks to Paul Rogers & the Manitowoc team:
MAKE YOUR TYRES LAST LONGER WITH KONECRANES TIRE SAVER
Tyre wear, especially on steering wheels, is one of the most significant maintenance costs in lift truck operations. It is also a major source of rubber waste, which has a lasting impact on the environment.
Konecranes Tire Saver is a smart, practical solution that helps you get more mileage out of your tyres while cutting costs and reducing waste. By increasing the truck’s turning radius, it minimises steering tyre wear for operations that do not need to manoeuvre in tight spaces every day. With a single upgrade, you improve productivity, reduce rubber waste and extend tyre replacement intervals.
How does it work?
Tire Saver is a mechanical kit installed in the truck’s steering cylinder. It limits the cylinder stroke, creating a slightly larger turning radius and significantly longer tyre life.
The Tire Saver solution can be retrofitted to any Konecranes forklift, container handler or reach stacker, helping you get the most value from your existing fleet.
Contact us
Contact the Paterson Simons parts team for the complete offer here.
PATERSON SIMONS TECHNICAL KONECRANES LIFTTRUCKS TRAINING TO FURTHER BOOST SKILLS OF DP WORLD DAKAR TEAM!
Paterson Simons conducted a specialised Konecranes Lifttrucks Technical Training session in Dakar, Senegal, to further enhance the technical expertise of the DP World Dakar workshop team.
This intensive five-day programme blended theoretical instruction with practical hands-on experience, equipping participants with the skills to effectively maintain and troubleshoot Konecranes Lifttrucks.
The training was delivered by Kamel Ali, Group Port Services Manager at Paterson Simons. The curriculum focused on preventive maintenance, hydraulic and electrical systems, diagnostics, system overhauls, variable pump adjustment, main pressure checks, and the calibration of key safety devices.
Congratulations to the following participants:
- Yankhoba Sadio
- Alioune Ndiaye
- Assane Gaye
- Moussa Diallo
- Marius Badiate
- Insa Coly
- Cheikh Sadibou Fall
- Séga Bakhayokho
- Yélly Diagne
- Oulimatou D Coly
The team demonstrated strong engagement and a solid understanding of the training material.
This initiative reflects Paterson Simons continued commitment to technical excellence, safety, and upskilling in West Africa’s ports and logistics sectors! Well done to all who participated.
Image: DP World, Port of Dakar
WHY FRANNA IS THE SMART CHOICE FOR AFRICAN MINES AND INDUSTRIES
Franna pick-and-carry cranes stand out for their unique mobility, agility and safety, making them ideal for the challenging terrain, tight spaces, and dynamic demands of mining and industrial operations. Franna cranes operate without outriggers, enabling fast set-up and quick transitions between lifts – crucial in remote or time-sensitive environments.
Their articulated frame design offers outstanding manoeuvrability, allowing operators to navigate sites that would be inaccessible to conventional crane types. In addition, Franna machines are engineered for high road speeds, meaning they can be driven between job sites instead of requiring heavy transport. From a performance perspective, Franna cranes provide a compelling combination of lifting strength and versatility. Even though they may not always match the capacity of large all-terrain cranes, their ability to pick up a load and carry it directly to its required location gives them a unique operational advantage.
Safety is built into their design. Modern Franna models include features such as overload protection, dynamic load moment indicators (LMI), and ergonomic operator cabins to enhance both control and visibility. In sum, for African mines and industries – where mobility, reliability, rapid deployment, and safe operation are paramount – Franna cranes offer a smart, efficient, and practical lifting solution.
Over the past five years, Paterson Simons has been proud to serve as the official Franna dealer for West and Central Africa. From the outset, our mission has been more than simply sales – it has been about providing comprehensive support: new units, spare parts, servicing, and support for legacy Franna fleets that previously lacked local representation. From the very start of our representation, Paterson Simons focused on making Franna more accessible across a broad territory, including Burkina Faso, Benin, Ghana, Liberia, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Guinea, Mali, Niger, Sierra Leone, Togo, and Senegal. By combining dependable machinery supply with in-region parts support and service, we’ve aimed to build confidence in Franna’s value proposition – even for customers who previously had little or no local support.
In September 2025, our team attended Vertikal Days, the essential event for the lifting and working at height industry, as part of our ongoing commitment to stay at the forefront of crane and lifting technology. The event served as a valuable touchpoint for our Franna engagement – giving our parts, logistics and sales teams firsthand exposure to industry developments, new models, and technological trends.
Meeting with the Franna team at the show was an important opportunity to strengthen ties, exchange technical insights, and reaffirm our shared commitment to delivering innovative lifting solutions tailored to customer needs in West & Central Africa.
As we move into the next phase of our Franna journey, Paterson Simons remains committed to:
- Expanding reach & support – deepening our presence across existing territories and exploring new markets.
- Technical excellence – ensuring our teams are ever more capable in diagnostics, service, and maintenance.
- Innovation & insight – staying at the cutting edge of crane technology and sustainability trends, as reinforced by engagements like Vertikal Days.
- Customer centricity – never losing sight that our value lies in enabling our customers to do more, safer, and more reliably.
To our customers, partners, and to Franna itself: thank you for the trust, the collaboration, and the ambition. Together, we’re building not just crane deployments, but a legacy of support, performance, and partnership across West and Central Africa.
Images below from our visit to Vertikal days, first image below shows James Heels, Group Business Development Manager, in a Franna AT22
PATERSON SIMONS WELCOMES MOHAMED BACHA TO THE PARTS TEAM
We are pleased to welcome Mohamed Bacha, who has recently joined Paterson Simons as a Parts Co-ordinator-French Speaking.
This role will support our busy and fast-paced Parts Team, with Mohamed based at our UK head office in Brighton.
His contribution will be important in helping to develop and maintain long term relationships in the Francophone territories.
We’re glad to have him on board and look forward to working together.
Welcome to the team, Mo!
ENGINE CONTROL FUNCTION BOOSTS EFFICIENCY AND REDUCES EMISSIONS ON KONECRANES GENERATION C MACHINES!
In addition to the familiar “Start and Stop” function – which automatically powers down the truck when idling or when the operator exits the cabin – operators now have the option to shut down the engine when abnormal engine temperature or oil pressure values are detected.
The control system issues an alert to the operator via a pop-up window, allowing them to decide whether to keep the engine running or stop operations immediately. This proactive choice helps protect the machine from damage, prevents unnecessary downtime, and reduces emissions.
The system is fully integrated with the MD4 master display and can be retrofitted to all Konecranes Generation C Forklifts and Empty Container Handlers.
This innovation not only supports sustainability goals but also helps owners avoid costly unplanned maintenance – ensuring machines stay reliable in the most demanding environments.
Don’t miss this opportunity to upgrade your fleet and safeguard your investment!
Contact us
Contact the Paterson Simons parts team for the complete offer here.
PATERSON SIMONS IS PROUD TO HONOUR PAUL ROGERS, MANITOWOC AFRICA DIRECTOR, AS HE PREPARES TO TAKE ON AN EXCITING NEW CHAPTER WITH MANITOWOC EUROPE!
We have had the privilege of working closely with Paul for over 22 years, and during this time his leadership, expertise, and commitment have left a lasting mark on our partnership and the wider lifting industry across Africa.
To mark the occasion, Paul was presented with a special farewell gift – a beautifully curated book titled Ghana, celebrating the country’s rich culture, history, and achievements.
We are grateful for Paul’s dedication and collaboration during his time in Africa, it has been a pleasure to work with him.
We extend our warmest wishes to you Paul and wish you continued success in your new role in Europe.
(Picture shows from left to right: Kwaku Okoh, Managing Director – Pasico Ghana Ltd. and Paul Rogers – Manitowoc Africa Director)
PATERSON SIMONS PARTNERS WITH KEMPOWER – BRINGING DC FAST CHARGING SOLUTIONS TO WEST & CENTRAL AFRICA
This collaboration marks Kempower’s first entry into the African market and a significant milestone in expanding access to advanced DC fast charging technology across the region. By combining Kempower’s innovative charging solutions with Paterson Simons’ deep regional presence, technical expertise, and established aftersales network, customers will now benefit from:
- Faster local access to products, spare parts, and technical support
- Customised solutions for challenging environments such as ports, mines, and industrial hubs
- Expert installation, maintenance, and training from a trusted regional partner
- Improved uptime and operational efficiency through responsive aftersales service
- Support for Africa’s energy transition, in line with global sustainability goals
Together, Paterson Simons and Kempower offer more than technology – we provide a long-term commitment to reliability, resilience, and the growth of EV equipment and charging solutions in Africa.
Kempower, headquartered in Finland, designs and manufactures cutting-edge DC fast charging solutions for electric vehicles and heavy machinery. Fuelled by a passion for e-mobility and backed by the Kemppi Group’s 70-year legacy in DC power innovation, Kempower blends engineering excellence with user-focused design. Its products are built for demanding applications – from personal vehicles and commercial fleets to marine, motorsports, mining, and port operations – with retrofit and upgrade options available.
To strengthen our technical capability, Group Technical Director James Savoy recently travelled to Finland for an intensive training and certification programme. The visit focused on the installation, commissioning, and maintenance of Kempower’s EV charging systems, ensuring we are ready to deliver expert support from day one.
This partnership reinforces Paterson Simons’ commitment to supporting Africa’s industrial growth, innovation, and sustainable progress.
With Kempower’s proven technology and our regional expertise, we are ready to power up the continent’s transition to cleaner, more efficient transport and industrial operations!
Imagery above and below shows Kempower & Paterson Simons collaboration at Meridian Port Services, Ghana
